Community acquired fungemia caused by Candida pulcherrima: Diagnostic contribution of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry

Abstract

Background: Community-onset candidemia constitute a distinct clinical entity the incidence of which is increasing. Contribution of non-albicans Candida species is rising. Case presentation: We describe here the first reported case of community acquired fungemia due to Candida pulcherrima. Identification to the species level was performed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Treatment with fluconazole was successful. Conclusion: This case confirms the pathogenic role of C. pulcherrima and the contribution of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for identification of rare Candida species.