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[Role of invasive candidiasis in hospital pathology]
C Minozzi1, J M Decazes, D Vittecoq
1Clinique des Maladies Infectieuses, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris.
Abstract:
The frequency, mode of occurrence, diagnostic criteria and main features of systemic and visceral candidiasis have been evaluated in a retrospective study of all cases managed in St Louis Hospital, Paris, during the [June 1, 1985-May 31, 1986] period. During this one year period 23 patients suffered from systemic or visceral candidiasis and Candida spp. accounted for 9.6% of all positive blood cultures, fourth in number after Enterobacteriaceae, Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas. Abnormal underlying condition was present in all patients, mainly haematologic malignancies, serious abdominal surgery and AIDS. In patients with haematologic malignancies C. tropicalis was the main species involved in contrast with surgical patients in whom the dominant responsible species was C. albicans. No Candida oesophagus was common. Therapeutic regimens included amphotericin B in all patients with systemic disease. We conclude that in an institution mainly oriented toward management of cancer and surgical patients, systemic and visceral candidiasis are common and represent a serious problem.
Insights
Systemic and visceral candidiasis are common in cancer and surgery patients, with Candida tropicalis and Candida albicans being the primary species. Amphotericin B was the standard treatment for these serious infections.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Context:
- Retrospective analysis of 23 cases of systemic or visceral candidiasis at St Louis Hospital, Paris (June 1985-May 1986).
- Candida species represented 9.6% of positive blood cultures, ranking fourth in frequency.
- All patients had significant underlying conditions, including hematologic malignancies, major abdominal surgery, and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Purpose:
- To evaluate the frequency, occurrence, diagnostic criteria, and key features of systemic and visceral candidiasis.
- To identify the predominant Candida species associated with different patient populations (hematologic malignancies vs. surgical patients).
- To assess the therapeutic approaches for systemic candidiasis.
Summary:
- Systemic and visceral candidiasis occurred in 23 patients during the study period.
- Candida tropicalis was prevalent in hematologic malignancy patients, while Candida albicans dominated in surgical patients.
- Amphotericin B was universally administered for systemic candidiasis.
Impact:
- Highlights the significant burden of candidiasis in specialized hospital settings.
- Underscores the importance of identifying specific Candida species for targeted treatment.
- Emphasizes candidiasis as a serious clinical challenge in immunocompromised and post-surgical patients.