Molecular Investigation of the Fatal Bloodstream Candida orthopsilosis Infection Case following Gastrectomy

Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Mar 31;24(7):6541. doi: 10.3390/ijms24076541.

Abstract

Candida orthopsilosis represents a closely related cryptic genospecies of Candida parapsilosis complex-misidentified in routine diagnostic assays. This is emerging in settings where central venous catheters, invasive medical interventions, and echinocandin treatments are most likely to be used. A 59-year-old, non-neutropenic male patient, was admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) due to respiratory distress syndrome, following a partial gastrectomy. As a result of duodenal stump leakage, re-laparotomy was required, abdominal drains were provided and central line catheters were exchanged. Multiple isolates of Candida orthopsilosis drawn from consecutive blood cultures were identified, despite ongoing echinocandin therapy and confirmed in vitro echinocandins susceptibility of the isolated strain. Species identification was verified via ITS region sequencing. Herein, we report the well-documented-per clinical data and relevant laboratory diagnosis-first case of a bloodstream infection caused by Candida orthopsilosis in Poland.

Keywords: CBSI; Candida orthopsilosis; antifungals; candidemia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Candida / genetics
  • Candida parapsilosis* / genetics
  • Candidemia* / drug therapy
  • Echinocandins / therapeutic use
  • Gastrectomy / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Echinocandins

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.