Aspergillosis and other systemic mycoses. The growing problem.

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Systemic mycoses pose a significant public health challenge, necessitating accurate incidence data for effective healthcare planning.
• Understanding the epidemiological trends of fungal infections is crucial for identifying at-risk populations and developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of systemic mycoses requiring hospitalization in the United States.
• To analyze trends in fungal infection incidence between 1970 and 1976 and identify associated patient comorbidities.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of hospital discharge records from 1,875 US hospitals was conducted.
• Data from the Professional Activity Study of the Commission on Professional and Hospital Activities were analyzed to project incidence rates.

Main Results:

• Projected 1976 incidence rates varied, with histoplasmosis at 23.0/million and blastomycosis at 0.2/million.
• Aspergillosis, actinomycosis, cryptococcosis, and coccidioidomycosis incidence increased substantially (74-158%) from 1970 to 1976.
• Comorbidities included high rates of leukemia, lymphoma, other malignancies, and chronic obstructive lung disease in patients with specific fungal infections.

Conclusions:

• The incidence of several systemic mycoses requiring hospitalization has markedly increased.
• Factors such as a growing immunocompromised population, migration, and an aging demographic are driving these rising trends.
• Continued surveillance and research are essential for managing the increasing burden of systemic fungal infections.