Work

Kazachstania slooffiae Fungemia: A Case Report and Literature Review on an Emerging Opportunistic Pathogen in Humans

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background We report a case of Kazachstania slooffiae fungemia in a 77-year-old immunocompromised male with gastrointestinal abnormalities including achalasia, gastroparesis, and prior esophagectomy. He presented with sepsis, gastric ischemia, and pleural effusion. To date, only 2 prior cases of Kazachstania slooffiae infection have been reported, both involving nonbloodstream infections. Methods We reviewed the existing literature and compared clinical, diagnostic, and treatment characteristics across all identified cases. Results Kazachstania slooffiae has been identified in critically ill, immunocompromised patients with gastrointestinal anatomic abnormalities, underlying malignancy, and disease. Diagnosis relies on advanced methods such as matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and DNA sequencing. Antifungal treatments (caspofungin, fluconazole, micafungin) have resulted in favorable outcomes. Conclusions This review highlights Kazachstania slooffiae as a rare opportunistic pathogen and provides the first evidence for Kazachstania slooffiae as a bloodstream pathogen in humans. Prompt identification and antifungal therapy are critical for managing infections.

Source: Open Forum Infectious Diseases

DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaf209

Authors: Sarah N Fortna, David M Aronoff, Andrew T Dysangco

Institutions: Indiana University Indianapolis, Indiana University School of Medicine, Atlanta VA Health Care System, Atlanta VA Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Antifungal resistance and susceptibility

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,053