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Causative agents of nosocomial mycoses

A Tomsiková1

  • 1Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 305 99 Plzen, Czechia.

Folia Microbiologica
|June 13, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Emerging fungi, previously considered harmless, are increasingly causing hospital-acquired infections (mycoses). Filamentous fungi, particularly, are identified as common agents in nosocomial infections, affecting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hospital Epidemiology

Background:

  • Fungi previously deemed non-pathogenic are now causing human mycoses, termed "emerging fungi".
  • These fungi are found in hospital environments, including air, surfaces, and personnel.
  • Iatrogenic methods also contribute to fungal exposure and infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential of "emerging fungi" to cause hospital-acquired infections.
  • To analyze risk factors, clinical presentations, and causative agents of nosocomial mycoses.
  • To compare findings from 1990-2000 with existing literature.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of mycotic diseases from 1990-2000.
  • Literature review and comparison of epidemiological data.
  • Identification of fungal agents and risk factors associated with hospital infections.

Main Results:

  • Transplantations were the most frequent risk factor for nosocomial mycoses.
  • Fungemia and abscesses were the most common clinical manifestations.
  • Filamentous fungi (e.g., Aspergillus, Fusarium, Rhizopus) were the predominant agents of hospital-acquired infections, alongside yeasts like Candida.

Conclusions:

  • Emerging fungi pose a significant threat, causing diverse clinical syndromes in hospitals.
  • Filamentous fungi are key contributors to nosocomial mycoses.
  • Both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals are susceptible to these infections.

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