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Overview of opportunistic fungal infections in India

Arunaloke Chakrabarti1, Shiv Sekhar Chatterjee, M R Shivaprakash

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India.

Nihon Ishinkin Gakkai Zasshi = Japanese Journal of Medical Mycology
|August 12, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Fungal infections are increasing in immunocompromised patients in India. Improved diagnostics and antifungal strategies are crucial to address the rising burden of opportunistic mycoses like candidiasis and aspergillosis.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health in India

Background:

  • Opportunistic fungal infections (mycoses) are a growing concern in immunocompromised patients within Indian tertiary care centers.
  • India's climate favors diverse fungal pathogens, yet data on mycoses burden is limited, with a lack of awareness among clinicians regarding emerging trends.
  • Existing data suggests an increasing incidence of invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis, and zygomycosis, with unique regional patterns observed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the current landscape and challenges of opportunistic mycoses in India.
  • To underscore the need for enhanced diagnostic mycology services and updated clinical awareness.
  • To emphasize the importance of refining antifungal treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing data on opportunistic fungal infections in Indian tertiary care settings.
  • Analysis of reported trends in specific mycoses, including candidiasis, aspergillosis, and zygomycosis.
  • Assessment of the impact of environmental and clinical factors on fungal disease prevalence.

Main Results:

  • Invasive candidiasis is the most common opportunistic mycosis, with a notable prevalence of Candida tropicalis in candidemia.
  • Invasive aspergillosis is a significant concern, potentially exacerbated by ongoing hospital construction.
  • India reports the world's highest incidence of invasive zygomycosis, often linked to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions:

  • There is an urgent need for improved diagnostic mycology laboratories and rapid diagnostic capabilities in India.
  • Antiretroviral therapy has not reduced the incidence of cryptococcosis and penicilliosis in AIDS patients.
  • Refinement of antifungal strategies and increased clinical awareness are essential to combat the rising tide of fungal infections.

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