Emerging Fungal Pathogen Rhodotorula Species Isolated From a Patient With a Lung Malignancy

TL;DR

A rare case of a deadly lung infection caused by Rhodotorula yeast in an elderly patient with lung cancer is reported.

Contribution

This paper presents a rare clinical case of Rhodotorula infection in a patient with lung malignancy.

Findings

A 79-year-old patient with lung cancer developed fatal lung cavitations caused by Rhodotorula.

Rhodotorula, previously nonpathogenic, is emerging as an opportunistic fungal pathogen.

Early identification and treatment are critical for reducing mortality from Rhodotorula infections.

Abstract

Rhodotorula is a genus of ubiquitous pigmented yeast found in the environment and as a commensal of human and animal microbiota. Previously considered nonpathogenic, Rhodotorula has emerged as an important cause of nosocomial and opportunistic infections in susceptible patients. While Rhodotorula spp. are common commensals in healthy individuals, the yeast may overgrow in patients with compromised immune systems causing disease. Herein, we provide a detailed presentation of a rare case involving a 79-year-old Caucasian female with a lung malignancy who developed massive cavitations in her lungs. The patient's lung tissue was cultured and grew an unidentified species of the genus Rhodotorula. The patient's health declined rapidly, and she expired due to hypoxemia. Clinicians must recognize patient groups potentially at risk for infection with Rhodotorula spp. Early identification and initiation of appropriate interventions are crucial in reducing mortality associated with this opportunistic fungal infection.

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