Invasive Saprochaete capitata Infection in an Immunocompromised Patient With Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Hematology

Background:

• Saprochaete capitata (S. capitata) is an emerging opportunistic fungal pathogen.
• It causes severe invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in immunocompromised patients, especially those with hematological malignancies and neutropenia.
• S. capitata infections are associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Observation:

• Diagnosis of invasive S. capitata infections is challenging, relying on clinical suspicion and pathogen isolation.
• The fungus exhibits resistance to echinocandins and fluconazole, complicating treatment.
• A case of invasive S. capitata infection with fungemia and pulmonary involvement in an acute myeloid leukemia patient during post-chemotherapy aplasia is presented.

Findings:

• The patient, despite profound immunocompromise, recovered successfully.
• Successful recovery was achieved with combination antifungal therapy: liposomal amphotericin B and voriconazole.
• This highlights the efficacy of combination therapy in treating invasive S. capitata infections.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of appropriate antifungal therapy are critical for managing S. capitata IFIs.
• Combination antifungal strategies may be essential for improving outcomes in these challenging infections.
• This case underscores the need for increased awareness and tailored treatment approaches for rare fungal pathogens in immunocompromised hosts.