Related Experiment Videos
Epidemiology of candidiasis
1Department of Pathology, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242, USA.
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Candida bloodstream infections have surged in hospitals, leading to increased mortality and longer stays. Healthcare worker transmission plays a key role, highlighting the need for infection control.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- Significant rise in Candida bloodstream infections (BSI) over recent decades.
- Candida spp. are a major cause of hospital-acquired BSIs, increasing mortality and hospital stay.
- Non-albicans Candida species are increasingly implicated in BSIs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology of Candida BSIs.
- To highlight the role of nosocomial transmission and antifungal resistance.
- To discuss prevention strategies for high-risk individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on Candida BSIs.
- Analysis of studies on Candida carriage by healthcare workers.
- Molecular typing and epidemiological investigation of cross-infection.
Main Results:
- Candida BSIs increased by nearly 500% in the 1980s and remain a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections.
- Over one-third of BSIs are caused by non-albicans Candida species.
- Healthcare workers' hands can harbor and transmit Candida strains to patients, indicating cross-infection.
Conclusions:
- Both endogenous and exogenous sources contribute to Candida BSIs.
- Nosocomial transmission via healthcare workers is a significant and preventable factor.
- Understanding transmission routes is crucial for developing effective prevention measures.