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Published on: April 19, 2017
Neonatal Torulopsis glabrata fungemia
J D Reich1, K Huddleston, D Jorgensen
1Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Ga. 30303, USA.
Abstract:
Torulopsis glabrata is a yeastlike fungus that has recently become recognized as an important opportunistic pathogen. Only four cases of T glabrata infection in neonates have been reported. We report two cases of fungemia caused by this organism in premature infants. Both patients were treated with amphotericin B and survived the fungemia, but one patient later died of bacterial sepsis. Both patients had been treated with surfactant, artificial ventilation, intravascular catheters (arterial and venous), broad spectrum antibiotics, and hyperalimentation, which appear to be risk factors for T glabrata fungemia. A review of the literature indicates that T glabrata is susceptible to amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine and is resistant to fluconazole. In addition, it is less susceptible to ketoconazole, clotrimazole, and itraconazole than is Candida albicans. We recommend that T glabrata infections be treated initially by reducing iatrogenic risk factors and beginning amphotericin B therapy. If necessary, 5-fluorocytosine should be added to the drug regimen.
Insights
Torulopsis glabrata fungemia is a rare but serious opportunistic infection in premature infants. Early treatment with amphotericin B and reducing risk factors can improve outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Torulopsis glabrata is an opportunistic fungal pathogen.
- Infections in neonates are rare, with only four reported cases prior to this study.
Observation:
- Two cases of fungemia caused by Torulopsis glabrata in premature infants are presented.
- Both infants had received surfactant, artificial ventilation, intravascular catheters, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and hyperalimentation.
- One infant survived the fungal infection but later died of bacterial sepsis.
Findings:
- Torulopsis glabrata fungemia is associated with significant iatrogenic risk factors in premature infants.
- The organism is susceptible to amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine.
- Resistance to fluconazole and reduced susceptibility to other azoles (ketoconazole, clotrimazole, itraconazole) were noted compared to Candida albicans.
Implications:
- Reducing iatrogenic risk factors is crucial for preventing Torulopsis glabrata fungemia.
- Initial treatment should involve amphotericin B, with 5-fluorocytosine as a potential addition.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and optimal management of Torulopsis glabrata infections in neonates is warranted.
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