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Geotrichum candidum as a tissue invasive human pathogen
Human Pathology
|July 1, 1981
Summary
Geotrichum candidum caused an invasive infection in the ileum of a patient with hairy cell leukemia. Diagnosis involved histologic and cultural analysis, differentiating it from Aspergillus and Candida.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare B-cell malignancy.
- Immunocompromised states increase susceptibility to opportunistic infections.
- Gastrointestinal involvement in HCL is uncommon but can be severe.
Observation:
- Geotrichum candidum, a fungus, was identified as an invasive pathogen.
- The infection localized to the terminal ileum.
- The patient had a history of "hairy cell" leukemia.
Findings:
- Histologic and cultural characteristics confirmed G. candidum.
- Diagnostic features were compared with Aspergillus and Candida species.
- This case highlights a rare fungal infection in an immunocompromised host.
Implications:
- Early recognition of G. candidum is crucial in immunocompromised patients.
- Distinguishing G. candidum from other common fungal pathogens is important for treatment.
- Further research may elucidate the specific risk factors for G. candidum invasive disease in HCL.