Optimizing management of invasive mould diseases

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Invasive mould disease (IMD) poses a significant risk to immunocompromised patients, particularly those with haematological malignancies and recipients of haematopoietic stem cell transplants.
• Optimal management of IMD requires a coordinated approach involving multiple healthcare professionals and departments.
• Existing management strategies may lack standardization, leading to variations in patient care and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an integrated care pathway (ICP) for the optimal management of invasive mould disease (IMD).
• To provide a standardized framework for healthcare professionals caring for high-risk patients.
• To guide the implementation and auditing of IMD management practices.

Main Methods:

• Development of a comprehensive ICP encompassing risk stratification, diagnostics, prophylaxis, and treatment strategies.
• Inclusion of patient and carer involvement, detailing interdisciplinary roles and interactions.
• Consideration of facility and service availability (e.g., HEPA filtration) for tailored implementation.
• Outlining outpatient drug management and therapy cessation protocols.

Main Results:

• The ICP provides a generic template for optimal IMD management, adaptable to local settings.
• It establishes a standard for auditing local practice and ensuring clinical governance.
• The pathway addresses the entire patient journey, from initial risk assessment to post-discharge care.

Conclusions:

• Implementation of this ICP can minimize practice variation and improve patient outcomes in IMD management.
• Regular monitoring and documentation of compliance with the local ICP are crucial for clinical governance.
• The ICP serves as a vital tool for standardizing care and enhancing the quality of management for invasive mould disease.