Coinfection with Sars-Cov2 and Kodamaea ohmeri: A case report from Tunisia

Abstract

Introduction: Kodamaea ohmeri, previously known as Yamadazyma ohmeri and Pichia ohmeri, is ascomycetous yeast that belongs to the Saccharomycetaceae family. It is a rare clinical isolate that has recently become known to cause various human infections. Here, we report the first case of co-infection with Sars-Cov2 and Kodamaea ohmeri in Tunisian patient without underlying disease. Methodology: We describe a patient with Covid-19 where Kodamaea ohmeri was isolated in sputum and protected tracheal samples. The identification was carried out by Vitek®2 YST ID card and confirmed by PCR sequencing. Susceptibility to antifungal was made by E-test. Results: Kodamaea ohmeri was identified using phenotypic, biochemical, and molecular methods. The isolate was susceptible for amphotericin B, caspofungin, and intermediate sensitivity for Fluconazole. Conclusion: Patients with severe Covid-19 are mostly colonized and co-infected with rare yeasts which are resistant to antifungals. This case incites to pay more attention to the emergence of this yeast. Keywords: Kodamaea ohmeri; diagnosis; antifungal; molecular methods.