[Candida albicans: risk factor in covid-19 patients]

Daniela San Martín Andrade1, Cristopher Andrés Cárdenas Amendaño2, Allison Brigitte Solórzano Cuenca2

  • 1Carrera de Odontologia de la Universidad Catolica de Cuenca. Campus Universitario Azogues, Ecuador. daniela.sanmartin@ucacue.edu.ec, ipmedinas@ucacue.edu.ec Universidad Católica de Cuenca Carrera de Odontologia Universidad Catolica de Cuenca Campus Universitario Azogues Ecuador daniela.sanmartin@ucacue.edu.ec ipmedinas@ucacue.edu.ec.

Insights

Candida Albicans, a common fungus, can worsen COVID-19 outcomes. Its presence increases the risk of severe illness and ICU admission, particularly for patients with respiratory issues.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Critical Care Medicine

Context:

  • Candida Albicans is an opportunistic fungus that can cause opportunistic infections.
  • COVID-19 patients with pre-existing Candida Albicans infections face increased risks of morbidity and mortality.
  • The respiratory system is a common site for Candida Albicans, potentially causing functional deficits.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the role of Candida Albicans as a complicating factor in COVID-19 patients.
  • To determine if the presence of Candida Albicans exacerbates COVID-19 severity.

Summary:

  • A literature review of 65 articles published between 2020 and the present was conducted.
  • Databases searched included Redalyc, Scielo, PubMed, Research Gate, Science Direct, and Google Scholar.
  • Analysis indicated that oral candidiasis negatively impacts COVID-19 patients, raising the likelihood of ICU admission and mechanical ventilation.

Impact:

  • Findings highlight the importance of monitoring for Candida Albicans in COVID-19 patients.
  • Early detection and treatment of candidiasis may mitigate severe COVID-19 complications.
  • This research underscores the need for integrated care approaches for co-infected patients.