Clavispora lusitaniae: From a saprophytic yeast to an emergent pathogen

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Olga C Rojas1, Alexandra M Montoya2, Rogelio de J Treviño-Rangel2

  • 1Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina y Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Av. Dr. José Eleuterio González 235, Colonia Mitras Centro, Monterrey, NL, 64460, Mexico; Vicerrectoría de Ciencias de la Salud. Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad de Monterrey, Av. Ignacio Morones Prieto 4500 Pte, San Pedro Garza García, NL, 66238, Mexico.

Fungal Biology
|July 26, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Clavispora lusitaniae is an emerging fungal pathogen causing invasive infections, especially in children with cancer. This yeast shows concerning resistance to common antifungal drugs, posing a significant threat to immunocompromised patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Microbiology

Background:

  • Clavispora lusitaniae is found in diverse environments, including clinical settings.
  • It is increasingly isolated from invasive infections, particularly in pediatric hematologic malignancy patients.
  • This yeast is recognized as an emerging nosocomial pathogen with a high mortality rate in immunocompromised individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the growing incidence of invasive Clavispora lusitaniae infections.
  • To highlight the clinical significance and pathogenic potential of C. lusitaniae.
  • To discuss the challenges posed by antifungal resistance in C. lusitaniae.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of published studies on Clavispora lusitaniae infections.
  • Analysis of case reports and epidemiological data.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on C. lusitaniae pathogenicity and antifungal susceptibility.

Main Results:

  • Clavispora lusitaniae is implicated in severe invasive infections, often with poor outcomes.
  • The yeast exhibits resistance to key antifungal agents like amphotericin B, 5-flucytosine, and fluconazole.
  • Adaptations enabling C. lusitaniae to thrive in the human host are suggested.

Conclusions:

  • Clavispora lusitaniae is a significant emerging pathogen, particularly in vulnerable patient populations.
  • Antifungal resistance necessitates careful treatment strategies and further research.
  • Understanding C. lusitaniae's pathogenicity is crucial for managing invasive infections.
Keywords:
Antifungal resistanceClavispora lusitaniaeEmergent pathogenSaprophytic yeast

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