Candida kefyr is a type of yeast increasingly recognized as a cause of human infections. While many yeasts coexist harmlessly with humans, this species can lead to various health issues. Its growing presence in clinical settings highlights its significance as an emerging fungal pathogen.
Understanding Candida kefyr
Candida kefyr was historically identified as Candida pseudotropicalis and is also known by its teleomorph name, Kluyveromyces marxianus. This yeast is found in various natural settings, including dairy products and other environmental niches. It is a single-celled fungus that reproduces by budding.
Microscopically, cells are oval to elongated. Macroscopically, colonies appear smooth, creamy, and white to off-white on standard laboratory media. Molecular methods, such as ITS sequencing, are used for precise identification, distinguishing it from other similar yeast species.
Common Infections Caused by Candida kefyr
Candida kefyr is associated with bloodstream infections, known as candidemia, which occur when the yeast enters and spreads throughout the body. Beyond the bloodstream, it can cause various mucosal infections, affecting the body’s moist linings.
Superficial candidiasis, manifesting on the skin or mucous membranes, is another infection type. It can also lead to localized issues such as keratitis (an eye cornea infection), pulmonary infections (affecting the lungs), and oesophagitis (esophagus inflammation). It has also been linked to ovarian cysts.
Who is Most at Risk for Candida kefyr Infections
Patients with weakened immune systems are susceptible to Candida kefyr infections. This includes individuals whose immune defenses are compromised due to underlying medical conditions or treatments. Those with hematologic malignancies, such as leukemia, are at increased risk, as these conditions impair the body’s ability to fight infections.
People undergoing chemotherapy experience aplasia, where their bone marrow activity is suppressed, making them vulnerable. Other underlying diseases and certain drug therapies can also increase the likelihood of developing an immunocompromised state, raising the risk of Candida kefyr infection.
Addressing Candida kefyr Infections
Diagnosing Candida kefyr infections involves culturing samples from infected sites, such as blood, and identifying the yeast. Antifungal medications are then used for treatment. Common antifungal classes include polyenes like amphotericin B, and azoles such as fluconazole and voriconazole.
A challenge in treating Candida kefyr infections is resistance to certain antifungal drugs. Strains have shown resistance to nystatin, clotrimazole, econazole, fluconazole, flucytosine, and itraconazole. Antifungal susceptibility testing is important to determine the most effective medication for a particular infection.