Systemic infection by Rhodotorula spp. in the immunocompromised host

Abstract

Invasive fungal disease continues to be a significant problem among immunocompromised patients. We report a case of systemic Rhodotorula infection in a patient with acute myelogenous leukaemia. Rhodotorula was isolated from bone marrow on two separate occasions despite initial treatment with amphotericin B. Liver computerised tomographic scan suggested liver abscesses, and yeasts were seen on biopsy. The patient survived after aggressive antifungal and antileukaemia treatment. Rhodotorula fungaemia has been occasionally associated with shock. As our case illustrates, Rhodoturola may be a cause of invasive fungal disease in the immunocompromised host but can be eradicated if treated aggressively.