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Ultrastructural observations in disseminated candidiasis
Abstract:
Infected tissues from four patients with disseminated candidiasis were examined by electron microscopy in order to study the host-parasite relationship at the cellular level. Blastospores and pseudohyphae were capable of invading parenchymal cells in the spleen, liver, myocardium, kidney, and esophageal and rectal mucosa. The Candida cells were typically well preserved despite the autolytic changes in parenchymal cells. Extracellular fungi were often coated with fibrin or associated with capillary thrombi, which suggests that Candida cells synthesize a procoagulant substance. The outer flocular coat of the yeast cell appeared to be partially of host origin since it diminished in thickness when organisms were cultured in media devoid of serum protein. Organisms cultured in vitro were ultrastructurally similar to those that invaded tissue.
Insights
Disseminated candidiasis involves Candida yeast cells invading organs like the spleen and liver. These fungi may promote blood clotting and possess a host-derived outer coat.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Cellular Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Disseminated candidiasis is a serious invasive fungal infection.
- Understanding the host-parasite interaction is crucial for treatment.
- Candida species are common opportunistic pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cellular mechanisms of host-parasite interactions in disseminated candidiasis.
- To examine the ultrastructural features of Candida cells within infected host tissues.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to examine infected tissues from four patients.
- Ultrastructural analysis of Candida blastospores and pseudohyphae in various organs.
- Comparison of in vitro cultured Candida with in vivo organisms.
Main Results:
- Candida blastospores and pseudohyphae invaded parenchymal cells in multiple organs (spleen, liver, kidney, etc.).
- Candida cells remained intact within degenerating host cells.
- Extracellular fungi were associated with fibrin and thrombi, suggesting procoagulant activity.
- The outer yeast cell coat had a host-derived component.
Conclusions:
- Candida actively invades host tissues at a cellular level.
- Candida may possess mechanisms to evade host defenses and promote thrombosis.
- The outer coat's composition suggests interaction with host proteins.