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Candida colonization in mechanically ventilated patients
I Palabiyikoğlu1, M Oral, M Tulunay
1Laboratory of Clinical Bacteriology, Medical Faculty of Anakara University, Ankara, Turkey.
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|March 15, 2001
Summary
The incidence of Candida isolation from endotracheal aspirates in mechanically ventilated intensive care unit (ICU) patients was low. Most Candida isolates were identified as C. albicans, suggesting limited risk from resistant species in this unit.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Pulmonary candidosis diagnosis remains controversial.
- Candida species isolation from respiratory samples is a concern in intensive care units (ICUs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence of Candida species isolation from endotracheal aspirates (EA) in mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU.
- To identify potential risk factors for Candida colonization and isolation in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 50 mechanically ventilated patients hospitalized in the ICU for >72 hours.
- Categorization of patients based on Candida colonization status on admission and during hospitalization.
- Isolation of Candida species from endotracheal aspirates (EA).
Main Results:
- Low incidence of Candida isolation from EA (12%) and low initial colonization rate (12%).
- No significant risk factors identified for colonization during hospitalization.
- Antifungal usage and neutropenia were more frequent in already colonized patients.
- All isolates were identified as Candida albicans.
Conclusions:
- Current incidence of Candida isolation from EA in this ICU is low.
- Candida albicans is the predominant species, with no current issue from more resistant Candida species.
- Further investigation into risk factors for colonization in specific patient subgroups may be warranted.