Skin infection with Saccharomyces cerevisiae in an immunocompetent patient: An exceptional infection

Abstract

Sir, Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a ubiquitous yeast used as a probiotic for antibiotic-associated diarrhea prophylaxis. It is part of the normal flora of the oral, gastrointestinal, and respiratory tracts and the vaginal lining. Severe opportunistic infections due to S. cerevisiae have been reported in patients with immunosuppression with fungemia, endocarditis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infection [1–3]. Herein, we describe the first case in the literature of a skin infection with S. cerevisiae in an immunocompetent patient. A 72-year-old patient with no particular history had had pruriginous skin lesions for five years in the context of general state preservation and apyrexia. A skin examination revealed erythematous and maculopapular lesions diffused throughout the body (Figs. 1a−1d). The phaners and mucous membranes were without abnormality, and there was no adenopathy. The rest of the examination was unremarkable. The patient had been treated several times with topical and oral antifungals and dermocorticoids but without any improvement.