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Case Report: Emergence of Candida auris in the Indian Ocean Region
Yaël Levy1, Guillaume Miltgen2,3, Alexandra Rousseau4
11Réanimation Polyvalente, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France.
Abstract:
Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant yeast that can cause severe infections and spread easily between hospitalized patients, leading to outbreaks in hospital. Here, we report the first four cases of colonization and invasive infection with C. auris reported in the Indian Ocean region. All cases were observed in the French overseas Reunion Island, a very popular destination for European travelers. Three patients had urinary tract or skin colonization, and one had a fatal invasive infection. In three cases, including that of the infected patient, the yeast was not initially identified as C. auris, preventing specific hygiene measures to be implemented as suggested in the December 2016 clinical alert to European healthcare facilities. The infected patient likely acquired C. auris in the intensive care unit from the first colonized patient. This is the first case of C. auris infection and the first potential case of nosocomial transmission of the pathogen to be reported in the French overseas Reunion Island.
Insights
The first cases of Candida auris, a dangerous drug-resistant yeast, were found in Reunion Island, leading to one fatal infection. Early misidentification hindered infection control, highlighting the need for rapid diagnostics in healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant yeast.
- It can cause severe infections and hospital outbreaks.
- Early detection and specific hygiene are crucial.
Observation:
- Four cases of C. auris colonization and infection were reported in Reunion Island.
- Three cases involved colonization (urinary tract, skin); one was invasive and fatal.
- Initial misidentification of C. auris occurred in three cases.
Findings:
- This marks the first report of C. auris in the Indian Ocean region.
- Nosocomial transmission is suspected, with one patient likely infected in the ICU.
- Delayed identification impeded timely implementation of control measures.
Implications:
- Highlights the silent spread of C. auris in new regions.
- Underscores the critical need for accurate and rapid diagnostics.
- Emphasizes the importance of adhering to clinical alerts for emerging pathogens.
