Unveiling Lodderomyces elongisporus as an Emerging Yeast Pathogen: A Holistic Approach to Microbiological Diagnostic Strategies

Watcharamat Muangkaew, Natthapaninee Thanomsridetchai, Marut Tangwattanachuleeporn, Sumate Ampawong, Passanesh Sukphopetch

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Lodderomyces elongisporus, first isolated in 1952, has increasingly been recognized as a significant pathogen, with a notable rise in human infections since the 1970s. Initially misidentified as Candida parapsilosis due to morphological similarities, L. elongisporus has now been conclusively established as a distinct species, largely due to advancements in molecular biology, particularly DNA sequencing. This review traces the detection history of L. elongisporus, from the earliest documented cases to the most recent reports, underscoring its role as a causative agent in human infections. It also explores therapeutic strategies that have demonstrated efficacy, alongside instances of environmental contamination reported in international literature. A critical evaluation of diagnostic methodologies essential for precise identification is provided, including culture-based techniques such as colony morphology on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and chromogenic media, coupled with microscopic assessments using Lactophenol Cotton Blue (LPCB) and Gram staining. The ultrastructure of L. elongisporus, as observed under Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), is also discussed. Furthermore, non-culture-based diagnostics, such as sugar utilization tests (API 20C AUX and the innovative in-house arabinose-based “Loddy” test) and antifungal susceptibility profiling, are reviewed, with a particular focus on molecular tools like ITS-DNA sequencing and MALDI-TOF MS, which, despite their higher costs, offer unparalleled specificity. The accurate distinction and characterization of L. elongisporus are paramount, particularly in vulnerable and immunocompromised patients, where misdiagnosis can lead to severe consequences. This review advocates for intensified research efforts to develop more accessible diagnostic tools and deepen our understanding of this emerging pathogen, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.

Original languageEnglish
Article number94
JournalMycopathologia
Volume189
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2024

Keywords

  • Elongated yeasts
  • Lodderomyces elongisporus
  • Saccharomyces elongisporus

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Unveiling Lodderomyces elongisporus as an Emerging Yeast Pathogen: A Holistic Approach to Microbiological Diagnostic Strategies'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this