Torulopsis glabrata infection in the oral cavity

The first case report of an oral infection due to Torulopsis glabrata is presented. This microorganism is a yeast-like fungus grouped in a similar family to the Candida species. It has been isolated with increasing frequency from the oral cavity but, surprisingly, has not been reported as a pathogen in this site. In other anatomical sites, including the urinary tract, lung and gastrointestinal tract, Torulopsis glabrata has been reported as a pathogen, at times resulting in a fatal outcome. However, there has usually been some modifying factor, e.g. malignancy, cytotoxic drug therapy, diabetes or broad spectrum antibiotics, which caused this marginal pathogen to assume a pathogenic role. No such modifying factors could be elicited in this case. The history of the case including the management is presented. A brief outline of the microbiologic grouping of Torulopsis glabrata is given, as well as the diagnostic test used in its identification. The histopathology is described and the necessity for combining special tests in establishing a positive diagnosis is exemplified, as the histology alone is not pathognomonic of the infection.