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Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia: Risk factors, outcome and links with S. boulardii-containing probiotic
A Poncelet1, L Ruelle1, D Konopnicki1
1Infectious Diseases Department, Saint-Pierre University Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles, rue aux Laines, 105, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.
Abstract:
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia: risk factors, outcome and links with S. boulardii-containing probiotic administration.
Objective:
The aim of our study was to review cases of S. cerevisiae fungemia along with the corresponding risk factors (including S. boulardii probiotic intake), treatment and outcomes.
Patients And Methods:
Retrospective study (2005-2017) of S. cerevisiae fungemia. All the data were extracted from medical files.
Results:
We identified 10 patients with S. cerevisiae fungemia. Mean age was 59.4 years (range 21-88). Four fifths (80%) were on total parenteral or enteral nutrition, 70% had a central venous line, and 30% were admitted in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). S. boulardii-containing probiotic prescription was identified in 6 subjects. Three patients with no risk factors such as ICU or central venous catheter were 80 years old or more. Mortality rate was 50%.
Conclusion:
S. cerevisiae fungemia is a rare but life-threatening infection, associated with intake of probiotics containing S. boulardii. Besides classical risk factors, older age should be a contraindication for these probiotics.
Insights
Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia, a serious infection, is linked to S. boulardii probiotics. Older adults, especially those with risk factors, should avoid these probiotics due to high mortality risks.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia is a rare but severe bloodstream infection.
- The role of probiotic use, specifically Saccharomyces boulardii, in fungemia development requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia.
- To identify associated risk factors, including Saccharomyces boulardii probiotic intake.
- To analyze treatment strategies and patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study conducted from 2005 to 2017.
- Data collected from patient medical files.
- Analysis of 10 cases of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia.
Main Results:
- The study identified 10 patients with Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia.
- Common risk factors included total parenteral/enteral nutrition (80%), central venous lines (70%), and ICU admission (30%).
- Saccharomyces boulardii probiotic use was noted in 60% of cases, with a 50% mortality rate.
Conclusions:
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae fungemia is a rare, life-threatening infection.
- Intake of Saccharomyces boulardii-containing probiotics is a significant risk factor.
- Older age, in addition to traditional risk factors, should be considered a contraindication for these probiotics.
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