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Catheter-related infections by Hansenula anomala in children
1Department of Pediatrics, Kurume University School of Medicine, Japan.
Abstract:
During August and September, 1992, we experienced 4 cases of Hansenula anomala (H. anomala, synonym Pichia anomala) fungemia in immunocompromised patients. Two patients had been suffering from a malignant disease, 3 of them had received broad-spectrum antibiotics and a central venous catheter (CVC) had been inserted in all of them. H. anomala was isolated as the sole pathogen from all 4 patients. Three of them responded favorably to fluconazole after withdrawal of the catheter, but one failed. H. anomala should be considered as a possible cause of catheter-related infections.
Insights
Four immunocompromised patients developed Hansenula anomala fungemia, often linked to central venous catheters and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Early diagnosis and catheter removal are crucial for successful treatment of this opportunistic yeast infection.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Immunocompromised patients are susceptible to opportunistic fungal infections.
- Central venous catheters (CVCs) are known risk factors for healthcare-associated infections.
- Broad-spectrum antibiotic use can disrupt the normal microbiota, increasing fungal colonization risk.
Observation:
- Four cases of Hansenula anomala (synonym Pichia anomala) fungemia occurred in immunocompromised patients over two months.
- All patients had underlying malignant diseases and received broad-spectrum antibiotics.
- Central venous catheters were present in all four patients.
- H. anomala was the sole pathogen identified in all cases.
Findings:
- Three patients responded to fluconazole treatment after CVC removal.
- One patient experienced treatment failure despite antifungal therapy and catheter withdrawal.
- Hansenula anomala fungemia was associated with CVC use in this patient cohort.
Implications:
- Hansenula anomala should be recognized as a potential cause of catheter-related fungemia.
- Vigilance for H. anomala is warranted in immunocompromised patients with CVCs.
- Prompt diagnosis and management, including catheter removal, are essential for favorable outcomes.