Rhodotorula mucilaginosa
Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (previously: Rhodotorula rubra) is a yeast from the division of Basidiomycota.
Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, usually as a result of invasive processes, can cause rare but severe systemic diseases, such as:
Endocarditis (inflammation of the heart’s inner lining)
Meningitis (inflammation of the meninges)
Peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum)
Dermatitis
Rhodotorula mucilaginosa is widespread worldwide and is found in soil, water, on trees and flowers, in food, and air. The pathogen is able to form biofilms. This favors the colonization of catheters, prostheses and bronchoscopes.
Relevance of pathogen in transmission in endoscopy
Gastroenterology: Not relevant
Pulmonology: High
Ear, nose, and throat: Not relevant
Urology: Not relevant
Relevance for endoscope surveillance
High concern organism
Transmission route
The exact transmission routes of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa are not yet known.
As a biofilm former, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa can also be spread and transmitted in healthcare facilities through water. The water used for final rinsing of endoscopes must therefore be microbiologically controlled.
Resistance to antifungals
Rhodotorula mucilaginosa is resistant to echinocandins.
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