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Candida albicans Biofilm Development on Medically-relevant Foreign Bodies in a Mouse Subcutaneous Model Followed by Bioluminescence Imaging
Published on: January 27, 2015
[Candidiasis in an intensive care unit]
M A León Regidor1, A Ayuso Gatell, R Díaz Boladeras
1Servicio de Medicina Intensiva, Hospital General de Catalunya, San Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona.
Abstract:
The risk of being infected by candidiasis in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is evaluated, using an algorithm which allows the establishment of an early fungicidal treatment. This is a study which includes 34 patients with a mortality of 35%. Yeasts are detected from the second week at ICU, related with the long stay of patients at ICU and the relationship between mortality and age. The first positive sample usually does not indicate disseminate candidiasis (9%) or a positive blood culture (6%). Population defined as high risk for disseminated candidiasis (HRDC) with a negative blood culture has the worst prognosis (18 cases, 50% mortality rate). The six cases with HRDC with positive blood culture showed a mortality of 17%. In seven cases there were no HRDC criteria (mortality of 14%). With said study the existence or not of a HRDC could be determined, establishing the adequate antifungal treatment.
Insights
This study evaluates candidiasis risk in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), identifying high-risk patients for early antifungal treatment. Early yeast detection and risk factors are linked to mortality and prolonged ICU stays.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
Context:
- Intensive Care Units (ICUs) present a significant risk for candidiasis infections.
- Early detection of yeasts is crucial for timely intervention.
- Patient outcomes are influenced by risk factors and the duration of ICU stay.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the risk of candidiasis in ICU patients.
- To develop an algorithm for early fungicidal treatment establishment.
- To identify patient populations at high risk for disseminated candidiasis (HRDC).
Summary:
- A study of 34 ICU patients revealed a 35% mortality rate.
- Yeast detection typically occurred after the second week, correlating with longer ICU stays and age.
- Patients identified as high risk for disseminated candidiasis (HRDC) with negative blood cultures had a 50% mortality rate.
Impact:
- The study helps determine the existence of HRDC, enabling targeted antifungal therapy.
- Early identification of HRDC can potentially improve patient prognosis and reduce mortality.
- Understanding yeast detection timelines and risk factors aids in managing candidiasis in critical care settings.
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