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Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Prevalent fungal pathogens and antifungal resistance in Lebanon: A scoping review
Yara Khachab1, Majd Bou Ghader2, Vera Tahesh1
1Laboratory Department, Lebanese Hospital Geitaoui-University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Abstract:
Fungal infections are an increasing public health concern in Lebanon, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. Common pathogens include Candida albicans, C. glabrata (Nakaseomyces glabrata), C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and emerging C. krusei (Pichia Kudriavzevii), alongside dermatophytes such as Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton species. Aspergillus fumigatus, A. flavus, A. niger, and A. tubingensis are the predominant causes of respiratory and systemic infections. Although azoles, echinocandins, and polyenes remain key antifungal agents, rising resistance particularly azole resistance in Aspergillus and echinocandin resistance in Candida poses a major therapeutic challenge.
Insights
Fungal infections are a growing concern in Lebanon, especially for immunocompromised patients. Rising antifungal resistance, particularly to azoles and echinocandins, presents a significant challenge for treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Fungal infections pose a significant and increasing public health threat in Lebanon.
- Immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable to invasive fungal diseases.
- Common fungal pathogens include Candida species, dermatophytes, and Aspergillus species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing burden of fungal infections in Lebanon.
- To identify prevalent fungal pathogens.
- To underscore the challenge of antifungal resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of common fungal pathogens affecting the Lebanese population.
- Identification of key etiological agents in superficial, respiratory, and systemic infections.
- Assessment of current antifungal treatment strategies and emerging resistance patterns.
Main Results:
- Candida species (e.g., C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, C. krusei) and Aspergillus species (e.g., A. fumigatus, A. flavus, A. niger, A. tubingensis) are major pathogens.
- Dermatophytes (Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton) are also prevalent.
- Increasing azole resistance in Aspergillus and echinocandin resistance in Candida are significant therapeutic challenges.
Conclusions:
- Fungal infections require urgent public health attention in Lebanon.
- Effective management necessitates addressing the rising threat of antifungal resistance.
- Continued surveillance and development of new therapeutic strategies are crucial.
