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Updated: May 21, 2026
Whole Blood Assay with Dual Co-Stimulation for Antigen-Specific Analysis of Host Immunity to Fungal and Viral Pathogens
Published on: September 20, 2024
Fungal spore concentrations in two haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) units containing distinct air
C P Brun1, D Miron, L M R Silla
1Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Abstract:
Invasive fungal diseases have emerged as important causes of morbidity and mortality in haematological patients. In this study air samples were collected in two haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) units, in which distinct air-control systems were in place. In hospital 1 no high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter was available whereas in hospital 2 HSCT rooms were equipped with HEPA filters, with positive air pressure in relation to the corridor. A total of 117 samples from rooms, toilets and corridors were obtained during December 2009 to January 2011, using a six-stage Andersen sampler. In both hospitals, the concentration of potentially pathogenic fungi in the air was reduced in patients' rooms compared to corridors (P < 0·0001). Despite the presence of a HEPA filter in hospital 2, rooms in both hospitals showed similar concentrations of potentially pathogenic fungi (P = 0·714). These findings may be explained by the implementation of additional protective measures in hospital 1, emphasizing the importance of such measures in protected environments.
Insights
Airborne fungal contamination was assessed in two stem cell transplant units. Despite HEPA filters in one unit, both showed similar fungal levels, highlighting the importance of comprehensive protective measures for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Invasive fungal diseases pose significant risks to patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).
- Airborne fungal contamination is a critical concern in immunocompromised patient populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare airborne fungal concentrations in HSCT units with different air-control systems.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and positive air pressure in reducing fungal exposure.
Main Methods:
- Air sampling was conducted in two HSCT units with distinct ventilation systems (one with HEPA filters and positive pressure, one without).
- A six-stage Andersen sampler was used to collect 117 air samples from patient rooms, toilets, and corridors over 14 months.
- Concentrations of potentially pathogenic fungi were quantified and compared between locations and hospitals.
Main Results:
- Fungal concentrations were significantly lower in patient rooms compared to corridors in both hospitals (P < 0.0001).
- No significant difference in fungal concentrations was observed between patient rooms in the hospital with HEPA filters and the hospital without (P = 0.714).
Conclusions:
- HEPA filtration and positive air pressure alone did not significantly reduce airborne fungal levels in patient rooms compared to other protective measures.
- Comprehensive environmental control strategies, including additional protective measures, are crucial for minimizing fungal exposure in HSCT units.
