Geotrichosis Presenting As Funguria and Asymptomatic Urinary Tract Infection in a Patient with Renal Cyst

Abstract

Fungi are a versatile group of microorganisms that exist in three morphological forms, which include the yeasts (oval/spherical budding cells), true fungi (produce long filamentous, branching structures called as hyphae/mycelia), and dimorphic fungi (show both yeast at 370C and hyphal forms at room temperature). Most fungi are present in the environment and live as saprophytes. Some fungal species like the Candida are present in the human respiratory, intestinal, and genitourinary tract as commensals. Some fungi cause infections in humans and animals (dermatophytes). Few other fungal species are responsible for opportunistic infections, mostly in debilitated and immunosuppressed individuals. Geotrichum is one such fungus, which is present in the soil, dead, and decomposing organic matter, and may contaminate food, fruits, and vegetables. Geotrichosis is the infection caused by Geotrichum species. Due to its similarity in morphology, clinical features, and the pathogenicity with common fungi like the Candida species, and others, its clinical significance is undermined. This report presents a case of funguria and asymptomatic urinary tract infection caused by Geotrichum species in a patient with a renal cyst.