<![CDATA[Background: Kodamaea ohmeri is a member of the Saccharomycetaceae family and class Ascomycota. It is a rare human pathogen that can cause fatal infections and lead to an increased risk of morbidity or mortality. This opportunistic pathogen is associated with invasive fungal infections in newborn intensive care units (NICUs). Prematurity, very low birth weight, prolonged rupture of membranes, and invasive procedures are among the key risk factors identified in affected neonates. We report a case of K. ohmeri infection in a newborn treated at Bali Mandara General Hospital, Denpasar, Bali. This study aimed to enhance the awareness and understanding of clinicians, microbiologists, and infection control professionals in the management of neonates with K. ohmeri infection. Case: A preterm infant with gestational age 30 to 31 weeks was diagnosed with respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal pneumonia, stage 1 acute kidney injury, and neonatal sepsis. The infant had very low birth weight of 1420 grams, APGAR scores of 5-6-7, premature rupture of membranes more than 24 hours, and chest retractions. The baby was then transferred to the NICU and put on a mechanical ventilator due to respiratory failure. Blood cultures collected from two sites grew K.ohmeri. Treatment with intravenous voriconazole 3 mg per day, caffeine citrate, and nebulization resulted in clear clinical and laboratory improvement. After 14 days, procalcitonin levels decreased from 54.27 ng/mL to 0.51 ng/mL. Chest retractions were no longer present, and ventilatory support was discontinued. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of early recognition, accurate microbiological identification, and timely antifungal therapy for Kodamaea ohmeri infections in neonates. Increasing awareness among clinicians and infection control teams regarding risk factors, diagnostic considerations, and appropriate management is essential to improving outcomes and reducing the risk of transmission within NICU settings.]]>
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