Epidemiology of invasive fungal infections in the mediterranean area
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2026
An Ex vivo Assay to Study Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Published on: July 1, 2020
Ulrike Binder1, Cornelia Lass-Flörl
1Division of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria.
Abstract:
Although Candida species remain the relevant cause of IFI, other fungi (especially moulds) have become increasingly prevalent. In particular, Aspergillus species are the leading cause of mould infections but also Glomeromycota (formerly Zygomycetes) and Fusarium species are increasing in frequency, and are associated with high mortality rates. Many of these emerging infections occur as breakthrough infections in patients treated with new antifungal drugs. The causative pathogens, incidence rate and severity are dependent on the underlying condition, as well as on the geographic location of the patient population. France and Italy show the highest incident rates of Fusarium infections in Europe, following the US, where numbers are still increasing. Scedosporium prolificans, which primarily is found in soil in Spain and Australia, is most frequently isolated from blood cultures in a Spanish hospital. Geotrichum capitatum represents another species predominantly found in Europe with especially high rates in Mediterranean countries. The increasing resistance to antifungal drugs especially of these new emerging pathogens is a severe problem for managing these IFIs.
Insights
Emerging fungal infections, particularly from molds like Aspergillus and Fusarium, are increasing globally. Rising antifungal drug resistance poses a significant challenge for treating these invasive fungal infections (IFIs).
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- While Candida species are common causes of invasive fungal infections (IFIs), non-albicans Candida and fungal molds are increasingly prevalent.
- Aspergillus, Glomeromycota (formerly Zygomycetes), and Fusarium species are emerging pathogens causing IFIs with high mortality rates.
- These infections often occur as breakthrough infections in patients receiving novel antifungal therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the rising incidence and geographical distribution of emerging fungal pathogens causing IFIs.
- To underscore the challenge posed by increasing antifungal resistance in these pathogens.
- To inform clinical management strategies for invasive fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on emerging fungal pathogens.
- Analysis of incidence rates and geographical variations.
- Assessment of antifungal resistance patterns.
Main Results:
- Fusarium infections are increasing in the US, France, and Italy.
- Scedosporium prolificans is frequently isolated in Spain.
- Geotrichum capitatum shows high rates in Mediterranean countries.
Conclusions:
- Emerging fungal pathogens, including molds, are a growing concern for IFIs.
- Geographical location and underlying conditions influence pathogen prevalence and severity.
- Antifungal resistance in these emerging pathogens complicates treatment and necessitates new therapeutic approaches.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
01:27Cryptococcal Meningitis
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
01:15Antifungal Agents
01:26Healthcare Associated Infections I: Iatrogenic, Exogenic and Endogenic
HAIs significantly increase the cost of health care. Extended stays in healthcare institutions, increased disability, increased costs of medications, including specialized antibiotics, and prolonged recovery times add to the patient's expenses and the healthcare institution and funding bodies. Common...
01:28Infectious Diseases and Their Occurrence