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Fungal infections in immunocompromised critically ill patients
José Garnacho-Montero1, Irene Barrero-García1, Cristina León-Moya1
1Unidad Clínica de Cuidados Intensivos, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Sevilla, Spain.
Abstract:
Diverse pathogenic fungi can produce severe infections in immunocompromised patients, thereby justifying intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. In some cases, the infections can develop in immunocompromised patients who were previously admitted to the ICU. Aspergillus spp., Pneumocystis jirovecii, Candida spp., and Mucorales are the fungi that are most frequently involved in these infections. Diagnosis continues to be challenging because symptoms and signs are unspecific. Herein, we provide an in-depth review about the diagnosis, with emphasis on recent advances, and treatment of these invasive fungal infections in the ICU setting.
Insights
Invasive fungal infections pose a severe risk to immunocompromised patients, often requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission. This review details the diagnosis and treatment of these critical fungal infections in the ICU.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Immunocompromised patients are susceptible to severe fungal infections.
- Fungal infections can necessitate intensive care unit (ICU) admission.
- Commonly implicated fungi include Aspergillus, Pneumocystis jirovecii, Candida, and Mucorales.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and treatment of invasive fungal infections in the ICU.
- To highlight recent advances in diagnosing these infections.
- To provide guidance for managing critically ill patients with fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on diagnosis and treatment strategies.
- Emphasis on recent advancements in diagnostic methods.
- Analysis of common fungal pathogens in the ICU setting.
Main Results:
- Diagnosis of invasive fungal infections in the ICU is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms.
- Recent advances are improving diagnostic capabilities.
- Effective treatment strategies are crucial for patient outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Invasive fungal infections are a significant concern in immunocompromised ICU patients.
- Timely and accurate diagnosis, supported by recent advances, is critical.
- Comprehensive treatment approaches are essential for managing these severe infections.
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