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[Kodamaea ohmeri infection in a newborn with a mediastinal mass]
Jorge Alvarado Socarras1, Juan P Rojas Torres2, José A Vargas Soler3
1Departamento de Pediatría, Unidad Neonatal. Fundación Cardiovascular de Colombia. Jorgealso2@yahoo.com.
Abstract:
Invasive fungal infections are a considerable cause of morbidity, mortality, increased hospital stay durations, and high health care costs, during neonatal period. In this period, the premature infants are the most affected. Candida species are the leading cause of invasive fungal infections. The majority of neonatal Candida infections are caused by C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata and C. tropicalis, although other fungus species are being reported. One such emerging pathogen is K. ohmeri. This organism has been reported as a pathogen in the neonatal period, principally in premature infants. The risk factors associated with fungal infection are central line, immunosuppression, prolonged hospital stay, endotracheal intubation and exposure to antibiotics. We present a term baby with a mediastinal mass, who required several procedures, as pericardiocentesis, central catheters, mechanical ventilation, antibiotics. During his evolution, he presented infection by K. ohmeri. The baby was treated with amphotericin B, with satisfactory clinical course.
Insights
Invasive fungal infections pose significant risks to neonates, particularly premature infants. This case highlights *K. ohmeri* as an emerging fungal pathogen in newborns, successfully treated with amphotericin B.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
Background:
- Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates, especially premature infants.
- Candida species are the most common culprits, but emerging pathogens like *K. ohmeri* are increasingly recognized.
- Risk factors for IFIs in neonates include central line use, immunosuppression, prolonged hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, and antibiotic exposure.
Observation:
- A term infant with a mediastinal mass underwent multiple procedures including pericardiocentesis, central catheterization, and mechanical ventilation.
- The infant developed an invasive fungal infection during hospitalization.
- The infection was identified as *Kluyveromyces ohmeri* (K. ohmeri).
Findings:
- *K. ohmeri* is an emerging fungal pathogen causing invasive infections in neonatal intensive care units.
- The case demonstrates a successful treatment of *K. ohmeri* infection in a neonate using amphotericin B.
- Prompt diagnosis and targeted antifungal therapy are crucial for managing neonatal fungal infections.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of surveillance for non-albicans Candida species and other emerging fungal pathogens in neonates.
- Early recognition and appropriate management of *K. ohmeri* infections can lead to favorable outcomes.
- Further research is needed to understand the epidemiology and optimal treatment strategies for *K. ohmeri* in the neonatal population.
