Abstract: Objective To study a rare case of meningitis due to Prototheca wickerhamii and the characteristics of this pathogen.Methods The following tests were performed:Direct microscopic examination,fungal culture,temperature resistance test,cycloheximide tolerance test,carbohydrates assimilation test,scanning electron microscopic examination,and antifungal susceptibility test.API 20C AUX system was used to identify the fungus.Animal infection model was established.Results The pathogen was identified as P.wickerhamii.The pathogenicity of the isolate was confirmed by animal infection test.The patient was successfully treated with amphotericin B and itraconazole.Conclusions Prototheca wickerhamii is a rare opportunistic organism,which can infect individuals with normal immunity.Amphotericin B combined with itraconazole is effective for the infection caused by this organism.

Key words: Prototheca, Meningitis, Amphotericin B, Itraconazole