[Fungal identification in burn patients. A retrospective study and risk factors]

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Burn Care

Background:

• Fungal infections pose a significant threat to patients with severe burns, often leading to complications and increased mortality.
• Burn injuries, especially those affecting large total body surface area (TBSA) and involving inhalation, create a vulnerable environment for opportunistic fungal pathogens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of fungal infections in a healthcare burn center.
• To identify the common fungal species and their sources in burn patients.
• To evaluate the impact of fungal infections on mortality in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of medical records from 36 burn patients treated between 2011 and 2014.
• Review of patient demographics, burn characteristics (TBSA, degree, inhalation injury), treatments, and microbiological data.
• Identification of fungal species using microbiological culture and molecular methods from various clinical specimens.

Main Results:

• Candida species were the predominant fungal pathogens, with Candida albicans being the most frequent (53.8%).
• Fungal infections were diagnosed a median of 21.4 days post-ICU admission, with urine and blood being common isolation sites.
• Patients with extensive burns (71-100% TBSA) and inhalation injuries showed higher mortality rates.

Conclusions:

• Fungal infections are a serious concern in burn patients, associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
• Prompt microbiological investigation and targeted antifungal therapy are essential for managing fungal infections in burn care.
• The study highlights the need for vigilant surveillance and management strategies for fungal infections in severe burn cases.