Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

An Ex vivo Assay to Study Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Published on: July 1, 2020
[Diagnostics and therapy for invasive fungal infections in an intensive care unit]
1Zentralbereich für Krankenhaushygiene und Infektiologie, Universitätsklinikum Aachen, RWTH Aachen. sukoch@ukaachen.de
Abstract:
Invasive fungal infections are associated with a high mortality and have been increasing in incidence over the last few decades. Candidemia and, less commonly, invasive pulmonary aspergillosis are the most relevant fungal infections in critical care medicine. Risk factors for systemic Candida infections are the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, a prolonged stay in an intensive care unit and gastrointestinal injury or surgery. Invasive aspergillosis usually occurs in immunocompromised patients. The diagnosis of invasive fungal infections remains challenging. The therapeutic spectrum includes fluconazol, conventional and liposomal amphotericin B, and the recently introduced agents caspofungin and voriconazol. For rational and cost-effective use, the clinician requires precise knowledge of the indications and limitations of these agents. This review focuses on the diagnostic and therapeutic options in severe Candida infections and invasive aspergillosis.
Insights
Invasive fungal infections like candidemia and aspergillosis are rising and challenging to diagnose. This review covers key diagnostic and therapeutic options for critical care settings.
Area of Science:
- Critical care medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Mycology
Context:
- Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) have increasing incidence and high mortality.
- Candidemia and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis are prevalent in critical care.
- Risk factors include broad-spectrum antibiotics, ICU stays, and GI surgery.
Purpose:
- To review diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for severe Candida infections and invasive aspergillosis.
- To provide clinicians with knowledge on indications and limitations of antifungal agents.
- To address challenges in diagnosing invasive fungal infections.
Summary:
- Focuses on diagnostic challenges and therapeutic options for candidemia and invasive aspergillosis.
- Details antifungal agents: fluconazole, amphotericin B (conventional and liposomal), caspofungin, and voriconazole.
- Emphasizes the need for precise knowledge for rational and cost-effective treatment.
Impact:
- Aims to improve clinical decision-making in managing severe fungal infections.
- Contributes to better patient outcomes in critical care by optimizing antifungal therapy.
- Highlights the importance of understanding specific indications for various antifungal drugs.
Related Concept Videos
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Antifungal Agents
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...