Incidence Rates of Candida Bloodstream Infections in Patients With Malignancies in a Comprehensive Cancer Centre

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Recent literature suggests a general decrease in candidemia rates.
• Cancer patients, especially those with hematological malignancies and solid tumors, are at high risk for candidemia.
• Understanding trends in this vulnerable population is crucial for effective infection control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze temporal trends in candidemia incidence.
• To investigate candidemia rates in patients with solid tumors versus hematological malignancies.
• To assess changes in candidemia over a 12-year period in a dedicated cancer center.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of candidemia episodes from July 2008 to June 2020.
• Calculation of candidemia incidence per 1000 patient-days quarterly.
• Linear regression analysis to determine incidence rate changes over time.

Main Results:

• A total of 212 candidemia episodes were recorded.
• Overall candidemia incidence significantly declined from 0.81 to 0.21 episodes per 1000 patient-days (p < 0.001).
• Significant declines were observed in solid tumor patients (0.91 to 0.18), while a non-significant downward trend was noted in hematological malignancy patients (0.65 to 0.25).

Conclusions:

• A global decline in candidemia was observed in cancer patients, primarily driven by a decrease in solid tumor cases.
• Patients with hematological malignancies continue to experience substantial rates of candidemia.
• Targeted prevention strategies may be needed for high-risk hematological malignancy patients.