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Epidemiological study of Trichosporon asahii infections over the past 23 years
Haitao Li1, Meihong Guo1, Congmin Wang1
1Department of Dermatology, The Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Dongcheng, 100700, Beijing, China.
Abstract:
Trichosporon is a yeast-like basidiomycete, a conditional pathogenic fungus that is rare in the clinic but often causes fatal infections in immunocompromised individuals. Trichosporon asahii is the most common pathogenic fungus in this genus and the occurrence of infections has dramatically increased in recent years. Here, we report a systematic literature review detailing 140 cases of T. asahii infection reported during the past 23 years. Statistical analysis shows that T. asahii infections were most frequently reported within immunodeficient or immunocompromised patients commonly with blood diseases. Antibiotic use, invasive medical equipment and chemotherapy were the leading risk factors for acquiring infection. In vitro susceptibility, clinical information and prognosis analysis showed that voriconazole is the primary drug of choice in the treatment of T. asahii infection. Combination treatment with voriconazole and amphotericin B did not show superiority over either drug alone. Finally, we found that the types of infections prevalent in China are significantly different from those in other countries. These results provide detailed information and relevant clinical treatment strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of T. asahii infection.
Insights
Trichosporon asahii infections are increasing, primarily affecting immunocompromised patients. Voriconazole is the recommended treatment, with regional variations in infection types noted.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Trichosporon is a basidiomycete fungus, a rare but potentially fatal cause of infection in immunocompromised individuals.
- Trichosporon asahii is the most frequent pathogen within this genus, with a notable rise in reported infections.
- Understanding the epidemiology and treatment of T. asahii is crucial for managing infections in vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a systematic literature review of Trichosporon asahii infections over 23 years.
- To analyze risk factors, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes for T. asahii infections.
- To compare infection patterns between China and other countries.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of 140 cases of T. asahii infection.
- Statistical analysis of patient demographics, risk factors, and clinical data.
- In vitro drug susceptibility testing and analysis of treatment efficacy.
Main Results:
- T. asahii infections predominantly occurred in immunocompromised patients, often with hematological diseases.
- Key risk factors included antibiotic use, invasive devices, and chemotherapy.
- Voriconazole demonstrated efficacy as a primary treatment; combination therapy with amphotericin B showed no added benefit.
- Significant differences in prevalent infection types were observed between China and other regions.
Conclusions:
- Voriconazole is the preferred agent for treating T. asahii infections.
- Risk factor management and early diagnosis are critical for improving patient outcomes.
- Geographical variations in T. asahii infection epidemiology necessitate tailored treatment strategies.
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