A Rare Case of Fungaemia Due to Kodamaea ohmeri in a Neonate

Background: K. ohmeri is seen predominantly in cutaneous, endocarditis, fungemia and catheter-related bloodstream infections. Neonates are predisposed to systemic fungal infections due to prematurity, immunocompromised state, invasive procedures, intubation, prolonged stay on ventilator and antibiotic usage in neonatal intensive care unit. The prevalence of K. ohmeri in a new born has seldom been reported. Case Presentation: We present an unusual case of K. ohmeri fungemia in a full-term neonate. A term male baby born to a 25-year-old primigravida mother at 39 weeks of gestation age with birth weight of 2.5kgs via normal vaginal delivery, with episodes of hypoglycemia and multiple seizures was referred to our institution for further medical management. Sepsis screen showed elevated C Reactive protein levels. Blood samples were sent for microbial analysis. Culture yielded high growth of white dry colonies which was identified as K. ohmeri by VITEK 2 Compact System, and, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization - time of flight based automated bacterial identification system. Gram stain of the positive blood culture sample had shown numerous gram-positive oval-budding yeast like cells. Anti-fungal susceptibility patterns were evaluated and the child was put on fluconazole. Conclusion: Clinical antifungal treatment strategy for K. ohmeri should be adjusted promptly according to the susceptibility reports of the clinical isolates rather than empirical drug use.