Invasive infections due to Candida krusei: report of ten cases of fungemia that include three cases of endophthalmitis.

Abstract

Candida krusei has become an increasingly important invasive pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Previous experimental and clinical experience suggest that C. krusei has a low propensity for hematogenously infecting the eye. We report 10 cases of fungemia due to C. krusei at our institutions, including three cases of endophthalmitis due to C. krusei. Fungemia was associated with nodular skin lesions in all seven patients with neutropenia and occurred despite administration of antifungal prophylaxis or empirical therapy. None of the patients apparently died as a direct result of C. krusei fungemia. Treatment with amphotericin B resulted in resolution of endophthalmitis, although one patient required vitrectomy. Early institution of aggressive therapy with amphotericin B may alter the course and improve the prognosis of C. krusei infection, particularly in immunocompromised patients.