Fungemia due to rare non-Candida yeasts between 2018 and 2021 in a Greek tertiary care university hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Non-Candida yeasts, although rare, are increasingly encountered and recognized as a growing threat.

Methods: Cases of bloodstream infections (BSIs) due to non-Candida yeasts (NCYs) during the last four years (2018-2021) are presented.

Results: During the study period, 16 cases caused by non-Candida yeasts out of 400 cases of yeast BSIs were recorded, corresponding to an incidence of 4%. Yeasts that were isolated included Cryptococcus spp (4 isolates-25%), Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (2 isolates-12.5%), Trichosporon asahii (7 isolates-43.75%) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (3 isolates-18.75%). Predisposing factors involved mostly hematological malignancies, long term hospitalization or major surgical interventions. Most isolates, 15 out of 16 were susceptible to amphotericin B. Voriconazole was the most active azole in vitro. All isolates, except Saccharomyces spp., were resistant to echinocandins.

Discussion: Early recognition of rare yeasts as causative agents of BSIs and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment based on current guidelines and expertise remain crucial in efficient patient management.

Keywords: Cryptococcus; Fungemia; Rare yeasts; Rhodotorula; Saccharomyces; Trichosporon.