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Epidemiology of digestive tract mycoses in immunocompromised patients--a review
C Farina1, F Castelli, G Carosi
1Microbiology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti di Bergamo, Italy.
Abstract:
Systemic fungal infections are diseases of increasing incidence in immunocompromised patients. They are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with severe granulocytopenia caused by hematological malignancies or high-dose corticosteroid treatments. Systemic candidiasis is usually attributed to colonization of the patient's digestive mucosa or central venous/peritoneal catheters by endogenous Candida spp. Esophageal candidiasis can be a serious problem in predisposed individuals, and it can be the first opportunistic infection suggesting overt AIDS in HIV-seropositive patients. The aim of this review is to assess the epidemiology of alimentary tract mycoses in "at risk" groups because of iatrogenous or pathological reasons, such as in-patients undergoing solid organ and bone marrow transplantation, peritoneal dialysis and enteral/parenteral nutrition and in HIV infected patients.
Insights
Systemic fungal infections, particularly candidiasis, are rising in immunocompromised patients. This review examines the epidemiology of these infections in at-risk groups, including transplant recipients and HIV patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Systemic fungal infections are increasingly prevalent in immunocompromised individuals.
- These infections contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality, especially in patients with severe granulocytopenia.
- Candida species colonization of the digestive tract or catheters often precedes systemic candidiasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology of alimentary tract mycoses.
- Focus on "at risk" patient populations due to iatrogenic or pathological conditions.
- Include patients undergoing transplantation, dialysis, specific nutritional support, and those with HIV.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and epidemiological assessment.
- Analysis of data concerning fungal infections in specific patient cohorts.
- Synthesis of information on risk factors and incidence.
Main Results:
- Data on the incidence and prevalence of fungal infections in targeted groups.
- Identification of common fungal pathogens and their sources.
- Insights into the clinical significance of these infections.
Conclusions:
- Alimentary tract mycoses pose a significant threat to immunocompromised patients.
- Understanding epidemiology in at-risk groups is crucial for prevention and management.
- Further research is needed to address the growing burden of these infections.