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Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Infections in Children
Rachna Seth1, Immaculata Xess2, Manisha Jana3
1Department of Pediatrics, AIIMS, New Delhi, India. Correspondence to: Dr Rachna Seth, Professor, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India. drrachnaseth@yahoo.co.in.
Abstract:
Invasive fungal infections are important causes of morbidity and mortality particularly in high-risk patients. Recognizing such infections is often difficult because of non-specific symptoms and clinical signs. Timely diagnosis is also a challenge due to difficulty in obtaining adequate volume of samples, need for anaesthesia to perform certain diagnostic procedures, and insufficient data and experience related to fungal biomarkers and molecular detection tests. This results in widespread use of empiric broad spectrum antifungal agents with the consequent emergence of drug-resistant strains. This review focusses on the definition, clinical and microbial profile and diagnostic modalities for invasive fungal infections.
Insights
Invasive fungal infections are challenging to diagnose due to vague symptoms and testing difficulties. This review covers their definition, profiles, and diagnostic methods to improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are significant causes of illness and death, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Diagnosis is complicated by non-specific signs and symptoms, hindering early detection.
- Challenges in sample collection and limited data on fungal biomarkers impede timely diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the definition, clinical and microbial characteristics, and diagnostic approaches for invasive fungal infections.
- To highlight the difficulties in recognizing and diagnosing IFIs.
- To provide a comprehensive overview for healthcare professionals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on invasive fungal infections.
- Analysis of clinical and microbiological data related to IFIs.
- Examination of current and emerging diagnostic modalities for fungal infections.
Main Results:
- IFIs present with non-specific symptoms, making early recognition difficult.
- Diagnostic challenges include sample acquisition and interpretation of biomarker data.
- Delayed diagnosis leads to empirical antifungal use and resistance.
Conclusions:
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of IFIs is crucial for effective treatment.
- Further research into fungal biomarkers and molecular diagnostics is needed.
- Improved diagnostic strategies can reduce morbidity, mortality, and antifungal resistance.
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