A review of Candida species causing blood stream infection

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Global incidence of candidemia is rising, indicating a significant public health concern.
• Epidemiology of invasive fungal infections, particularly candidemia, has shifted over the last three decades.
• Factors contributing to this shift include the AIDS epidemic, increased immunosuppressive therapy for transplantation, and widespread antimicrobial use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the changing epidemiology of candidemia.
• To identify key risk factors associated with candidemia.
• To highlight the most common Candida species causing invasive infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of epidemiological trends in candidemia.
• Analysis of risk factors contributing to candidemia development.
• Identification of prevalent Candida species based on clinical isolates.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in candidemia incidence worldwide.
• Major risk factors identified: broad-spectrum antimicrobials, cancer chemotherapy, mucosal colonization, and indwelling vascular catheters (e.g., central venous catheters).
• Over 90% of invasive Candida infections are caused by five species: Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, and Candida krusei.
• An increasing number of novel Candida species are being identified in clinical settings annually.

Conclusions:

• Candidemia represents a growing challenge in clinical settings.
• Understanding and mitigating risk factors are crucial for prevention.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for effective management of candidemia cases.