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Present state of fungal infections in autopsy cases in Japan
Abstract:
In order to clarify the present state of opportunistic fungal infections increasing in incidence in autopsy cases, all autopsy cases from 1966 to 1975 reported in the Annual of Pathological Autopsy Cases in Japan were reviewed. Of the total 233,130 autopsy cases, mycoses were present in 4,340 (1.86%). The incidence of mycoses has strikingly increased during the recent five-year period. In Japan, the mycoses most frequently occurring in autopsy cases were candidiasis (32.28%), aspergillosis (23.08%), cryptococcosis (9.63%), and mucormycosis (2.90%). These occurred more frequently in younger persons and were most commonly secondary and deep-seated infections (95.78%). Among the primary diseases associated with mycoses, aplastic anemia (14.36%), leukemia (9.89%), malignant lymphoma (5.73%), multiple myeloma (4.68%), and systemic lupus erythematosus (4.62%) were most frequent. The incidence of the primary diseases associated with mycoses is increasing extraordinarily, and this seems to be strongly related to the modern therapy of using high doses of anticancer or immunosuppressive agents.
Insights
Opportunistic fungal infections, or mycoses, are increasing in Japanese autopsy cases, particularly candidiasis and aspergillosis. This rise is linked to modern treatments for underlying diseases like leukemia and aplastic anemia.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Pathology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Opportunistic fungal infections (mycoses) are a growing concern.
- Autopsy data provides crucial insights into disease incidence and trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence and characteristics of mycoses in Japanese autopsy cases from 1966 to 1975.
- To identify common fungal pathogens and associated primary diseases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of autopsy cases reported in the Annual of Pathological Autopsy Cases in Japan.
- Analysis of 233,130 autopsy cases to determine the prevalence of mycoses.
Main Results:
- Mycoses were identified in 1.86% of cases, with a significant increase in the latter five years.
- Candidiasis (32.28%) and aspergillosis (23.08%) were the most frequent mycoses.
- Aplastic anemia, leukemia, and lymphoma were common associated primary diseases, often treated with immunosuppressive agents.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of mycoses is rising, especially secondary deep-seated infections.
- Modern cancer and immunosuppressive therapies are strongly associated with increased mycoses.