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Seasonal changes in indoor airborne fungal concentration in a hematology ward
Takehiko Mori1, Taku Kikuchi2, Jun Kato2
1Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; Center for Infectious Disease and Infection Control, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is an important infectious complication of hematological disorders, especially in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients. Evidences suggest seasonal and/or geographical variations in the airborne fungal counts and a relationship between those counts and the incidence of IFD. We evaluated the concentrations of indoor airborne fungi quantitated over the course of one year in a hematology ward in Japan. In January, April, July, and October, fixed volumes of air samples were obtained by an air sampler in a hematology ward not equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air filter and incubated in fugal cultures. Samples were also obtained from a protective environment in the same ward and were evaluated. The number of fungal colonies per 50 L of sampled air was highest in October (median 2.25 (range, 0.2-7.0)), which was significantly higher than those in the other three months (0.1 (range, 0-1.0) in January; 0 (0-0) in April; 0.55 (0-2.5) in July; P < 0.01)). Commonly identified pathogens included Penicillium and Cladosrporium species, but Aspergillus species was detected only in July and October samples. These results suggest a seasonal variation in indoor airborne fungal concentrations in Japan, which could affect the epidemiology of IFD.
Insights
Airborne fungal counts in a Japanese hematology ward show seasonal variations, peaking in October. This finding is crucial for understanding and preventing invasive fungal disease (IFD) in vulnerable patients.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a significant complication in hematological patients, particularly stem cell transplant recipients.
- Evidence suggests a link between airborne fungal levels and IFD incidence, with potential seasonal and geographical influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify indoor airborne fungal concentrations over a year in a Japanese hematology ward.
- To investigate potential seasonal variations in airborne fungi relevant to IFD epidemiology.
Main Methods:
- Air sampling was conducted monthly in a standard hematology ward and a protective environment.
- Fungal cultures were used to quantify colony counts per 50L of sampled air.
- Common fungal genera and specific pathogens were identified.
Main Results:
- Airborne fungal concentrations exhibited significant seasonal variation, with the highest levels observed in October (median 2.25 colonies/50L).
- October counts were significantly higher than those in January, April, and July (P < 0.01).
- Penicillium and Cladosporium were common; Aspergillus species were detected only in July and October.
Conclusions:
- A distinct seasonal pattern of indoor airborne fungi exists in this Japanese hematology setting.
- These findings highlight the need to consider seasonal fungal variations in strategies to prevent IFD in immunocompromised patients.
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