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Published on: July 1, 2020
Nosocomial candidiasis: emerging species, reservoirs, and modes of transmission
1Department of Pathology, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242, USA.
Abstract:
During the 1980s, the frequency of nosocomial candidiasis increased dramatically. This trend has continued into the 1990s, and Candida species remain a major cause of nosocomial infections. Although Candida albicans remains the most frequent cause of fungemia and hematogenously disseminated candidiasis, a number of reports have documented infections caused by other Candida species: C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, and C. lusitaniae. Many of these infections arise from an endogenous source, and their frequency is influenced by the patient population, the various treatment regimens, and the antibiotics or other supportive care measures employed at specific institutions. Additional infections may be accounted for by exogenous acquisition via the hands of health care workers, contaminated infusates and biomaterials, and the inanimate environment. Ongoing investigation should help improve our understanding of the epidemiology of candidiasis and facilitate the development of rational preventive measures.
Insights
Nosocomial candidiasis, caused by Candida species, has significantly increased since the 1980s. Understanding the epidemiology of these fungal infections is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- Nosocomial candidiasis incidence dramatically rose in the 1980s and continued into the 1990s.
- Candida species are a primary cause of hospital-acquired infections, including fungemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology of nosocomial candidiasis.
- To highlight the increasing prevalence of infections caused by various Candida species.
- To discuss factors influencing infection rates and potential acquisition routes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nosocomial candidiasis trends.
- Analysis of reported cases and causative Candida species.
- Discussion of endogenous and exogenous acquisition pathways.
Main Results:
- Candida albicans is the most common cause of fungemia and disseminated candidiasis.
- Non-albicans Candida species (e.g., C. tropicalis, C. glabrata) are increasingly implicated in nosocomial infections.
- Infection frequency is linked to patient populations, treatment regimens, and institutional practices.
Conclusions:
- Nosocomial candidiasis remains a significant clinical challenge.
- Both endogenous and exogenous sources contribute to infection spread.
- Further research is needed to refine preventive measures against candidiasis.
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