MICROMYCETES INFECTION IN PATIENTS WITH THERMAL TRAUMA

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Burn Care and Treatment
• Infectious Diseases Epidemiology

Background:

• Burn injuries are susceptible to secondary infections, including those caused by micromycetes (fungi).
• Understanding the epidemiology of fungal infections in burn patients is crucial for effective management and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the epidemiological characteristics of burn patients with micromycetes infections.
• To identify the predominant fungal species causing infections in this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, monocentric study was conducted from 2007 to 2015.
• Adult burn patients with isolated micromycetes during hospitalization were included.
• The Abbreviated Burn Severity Index (ABSI) was used to assess trauma severity, with statistical analysis of results.

Main Results:

• 61 patients with thermal trauma and micromycetes isolated were identified (37 males, 24 females).
• The average age was 57.3 years, with a mortality rate of 9.8%.
• Non-albicans Candida species were the most frequent yeasts (60 strains), followed by Candida albicans (16 strains). Aspergillus fumigatus and Fusarium species were the main fibrous fungi.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully characterized the epidemiology of micromycetes infections in burn patients.
• Key fungal pathogens, including specific yeasts and fibrous fungi, were identified, informing clinical practice.