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Pantić N, Barać A, Mano V, Dedeić-Ljubović A, Malkodanski I, Jaksić O, Gkentzi D, Mitrović M, Munteanu O, Šišević D, Stojanoski Z, Popescu O, Todorović J, Cornely OA, Salmanton-García J. Mapping the path to excellence: Evaluation of the diagnostic and treatment tools for invasive fungal infections in the balkans. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:102493. [PMID: 38970927 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Balkans, rising concerns about invasive fungal infections over the past decade stem from various factors. Primarily, there has been a notable uptick in immunocompromised individuals, including those with chronic illnesses like immunological and hematological diseases. Thus, it is essential to assess the region's laboratory capabilities and the availability of antifungals. This evaluation is vital for gauging the preparedness to diagnose and treat fungal infections effectively, thus minimizing their public health impact. METHODS Data were collected via an online questionnaire targeting healthcare professionals specializing in relevant fields across diverse healthcare settings in Balkan countries. The survey covered various aspects, including diagnostic methods, imaging techniques, and available antifungal armamentarium. RESULTS Responses were obtained from 50 institutions across the Balkans. While conventional diagnostic methods like microscopy (96 %) and culture (100 %) diagnostics were widely available, access to newer diagnostic tools such as molecular assays (61 %) were limited, often relying on outsourced services. Imaging modalities like ultrasound (100 %) and CT scans (93 %) were universally accessible. A variety of antifungal drugs were available, including amphotericin B formulations (80 %), echinocandins (79 %), and triazoles (100 %). However, access to newer agents like posaconazole (62 %) and isavuconazole (45 %) was inconsistent. Therapeutic drug monitoring (53 %) services were also limited. CONCLUSION The study underscores the need for equitable access to diagnostic facilities and antifungal treatments across healthcare settings in the Balkan geographic region. Improving access to molecular diagnostic tools and essential antifungal drugs, as well as implementing therapeutic drug monitoring, would optimize the management of fungal infections in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Pantić
- Clinic for Hematology, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Aleksandra Barać
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Hospital for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vasilika Mano
- Laboratory of Microbiology, University Medical Center of Tirana "Mother Teresa", Tirana, Albania
| | - Amela Dedeić-Ljubović
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Ivan Malkodanski
- St. Marina University Hospital, Medical University, Pleven, Bulgaria
| | - Ozren Jaksić
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University Hospital Dubrava, Medical School University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Despoina Gkentzi
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Patras, University General Hospital of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Mirjana Mitrović
- Clinic for Hematology, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Oxana Munteanu
- Division of Pneumology and Allergology, Department of Internal Medicine, State University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Nicolae Testemițanu", Medpark International Hospital, Chișinău, Moldova
| | | | - Zlate Stojanoski
- University Hematology Clinic, Medical Faculty, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Oana Popescu
- National Institute of Pneumology Marius Nasta, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Oliver A Cornely
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jon Salmanton-García
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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Martins-Santana L, Rezende CP, Rossi A, Martinez-Rossi NM, Almeida F. Addressing Microbial Resistance Worldwide: Challenges over Controlling Life-Threatening Fungal Infections. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020293. [PMID: 36839565 PMCID: PMC9961291 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are a serious global concern because of their ability to spread and colonize host tissues in immunocompromised individuals. Such infections have been frequently reported worldwide and are currently gaining clinical research relevance owing to their resistant character, representing a bottleneck in treating affected people. Resistant fungi are an emergent public health threat. The upsurge of such pathogens has led to new research toward unraveling the destructive potential evoked by these species. Some fungi-grouped into Candida, Aspergillus, and Cryptococcus-are causative agents of severe and systemic infections. They are associated with high mortality rates and have recently been described as sources of coinfection in COVID-hospitalized patients. Despite the efforts to elucidate the challenges of colonization, dissemination, and infection severity, the immunopathogenesis of fungal diseases remains a pivotal characteristic in fungal burden elimination. The struggle between the host immune system and the physiological strategies of the fungi to maintain cellular viability is complex. In this brief review, we highlight the relevance of drug resistance phenotypes in fungi of clinical significance, taking into consideration their physiopathology and how the scientific community could orchestrate their efforts to avoid fungal infection dissemination and deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Martins-Santana
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Caroline Patini Rezende
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Nilce Maria Martinez-Rossi
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-900, Brazil
| | - Fausto Almeida
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-900, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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Ray A, Aayilliath K A, Banerjee S, Chakrabarti A, Denning DW. Burden of Serious Fungal Infections in India. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac603. [PMID: 36589484 PMCID: PMC9792086 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fungal disease is frequent in India, but its incidence and prevalence are unclear. This review aims at defining the frequency or burden of various fungal infections in India. Methods A systematic review of the literature on the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science (WOS) databases was conducted using appropriate search strings. Deterministic modeling determined annual incidence and prevalence estimates for multiple life- and sight-threatening infections with significant morbidity. Results Literature searches yielded >2900 papers; 434 papers with incidence/prevalence/proportion data were analyzed. An estimated 57 251 328 of the 1 393 400 000 people in India (4.1%) suffer from a serious fungal disease. The prevalence (in millions) of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is 24.3, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is 2.0, tinea capitis in school-age children is 25, severe asthma with fungal sensitization is 1.36, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is 1.74, and chronic fungal rhinosinusitis is 1.52. The annual incidence rates of Pneumocystis pneumonia (58 400), invasive aspergillosis (250 900), mucormycosis (195 000), esophageal candidiasis in HIV (266 600), candidemia (188 000), fungal keratitis (1 017 100), and cryptococcal meningitis (11 500) were also determined. Histoplasmosis, talaromycosis, mycetoma, and chromoblastomycosis were less frequent. Conclusions India's fungal burden is high and underappreciated in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Animesh Ray
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Arunaloke Chakrabarti
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - David W Denning
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Global Action For Fungal Infections, Geneva, Switzerland
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Islam MR, Rahman MM, Ahasan MT, Sarkar N, Akash S, Islam M, Islam F, Aktar MN, Saeed M, Harun-Or-Rashid M, Hosain MK, Rahaman MS, Afroz S, Bibi S, Rahman MH, Sweilam SH. The impact of mucormycosis (black fungus) on SARS-CoV-2-infected patients: at a glance. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:69341-69366. [PMID: 35986111 PMCID: PMC9391068 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22204-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of various diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic made health workers more attentive, and one of the new pathogens is the black fungus (mucormycosis). As a result, millions of lives have already been lost. As a result of the mutation, the virus is constantly changing its traits, including the rate of disease transmission, virulence, pathogenesis, and clinical signs. A recent analysis revealed that some COVID-19 patients were also coinfected with a fungal disease called mucormycosis (black fungus). India has already categorized the COVID-19 patient black fungus outbreak as an epidemic. Only a few reports are observed in other countries. The immune system is weakened by COVID-19 medication, rendering it more prone to illnesses like black fungus (mucormycosis). COVID-19, which is caused by a B.1.617 strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has been circulating in India since April 2021. Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection induced by exposure to a fungus called mucormycete. The most typically implicated genera are Mucor rhyzuprhizopusdia and Cunninghamella. Mucormycosis is also known as zygomycosis. The main causes of infection are soil, dumping sites, ancient building walls, and other sources of infection (reservoir words "mucormycosis" and "zygomycosis" are occasionally interchanged). Zygomycota, on the other hand, has been identified as polyphyletic and is not currently included in fungal classification systems; also, zygomycosis includes Entomophthorales, but mucormycosis does not. This current review will be focused on the etiology and virulence factors of COVID-19/mucormycosis coinfections in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis patients, as well as their prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Rezaul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Mominur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Tanjimul Ahasan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nadia Sarkar
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shopnil Akash
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mahfuzul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Fahadul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Most. Nazmin Aktar
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mohd Saeed
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md. Harun-Or-Rashid
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Kawsar Hosain
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Saidur Rahaman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sadia Afroz
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, 1207 Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shabana Bibi
- Department of Biosciences, Shifa Tameer-E-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Yunnan Herbal Laboratory, College of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091 China
| | - Md. Habibur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Banani, Dhaka 1213 Bangladesh
- Department of Global Medical Science, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, 26426 Korea
| | - Sherouk Hussein Sweilam
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, 11942 Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo-Suez Road, Badr City, 11829 Egypt
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Mamali V, Siopi M, Charpantidis S, Samonis G, Tsakris A, Vrioni G. Increasing Incidence and Shifting Epidemiology of Candidemia in Greece: Results from the First Nationwide 10-Year Survey. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8020116. [PMID: 35205870 PMCID: PMC8879520 DOI: 10.3390/jof8020116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, candidemia displays geographical variety in terms of epidemiology and incidence. In that respect, a nationwide Greek study was conducted, reporting the epidemiology of Candida bloodstream infections and susceptibility of isolates to antifungal agents providing evidence for empirical treatment. All microbiologically confirmed candidemia cases in patients hospitalized in 28 Greek centres during the period 2009–2018 were recorded. The study evaluated the incidence of infection/100,000 inhabitants, species distribution, and antifungal susceptibilities of isolated strains. Overall, 6057 candidemic episodes occurred during the study period, with 3% of them being mixed candidemias. The average annual incidence was 5.56/100,000 inhabitants, with significant increase over the years (p = 0.0002). C. parapsilosis species complex (SC) was the predominant causative agent (41%), followed by C. albicans (37%), C. glabrata SC (10%), C. tropicalis (7%), C. krusei (1%), and other rare Candida spp. (4%). C. albicans rates decreased from 2009 to 2018 (48% to 31%) in parallel with a doubling incidence of C. parapsilosis SC rates (28% to 49%, p < 0.0001). Resistance to amphotericin B and flucytosine was not observed. Resistance to fluconazole was detected in 20% of C. parapsilosis SC isolates, with a 4% of them being pan-azole-resistant. A considerable rising rate of resistance to this agent was observed over the study period (p < 0.0001). Echinocandin resistance was found in 3% of C. glabrata SC isolates, with 70% of them being pan-echinocandin-resistant. Resistance rate to this agent was stable over the study period. This is the first multicentre nationwide study demonstrating an increasing incidence of candidemia in Greece with a species shift toward C. parapsilosis SC. Although the overall antifungal resistance rates remain relatively low, fluconazole-resistant C. parapsilosis SC raises concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Mamali
- Department of Microbiology, Tzaneio General Hospital, 18536 Piraeus, Greece;
| | - Maria Siopi
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, “Attikon” University General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Stefanos Charpantidis
- Department of Microbiology, “Elena Venizelou” Maternity Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece;
| | - George Samonis
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Tsakris
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Georgia Vrioni
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-210-746-2129
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Zhou LH, Jiang YK, Li RY, Huang LP, Yip CW, Denning DW, Zhu LP. Risk-Based Estimate of Human Fungal Disease Burden, China. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 26:2137-2147. [PMID: 32818410 PMCID: PMC7454105 DOI: 10.3201/eid2609.200016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
We conducted a systematic literature review to obtain risk population–based fungal disease incidence or prevalence data from China. Data were categorized by risk factors and extrapolated by using most recent demographic figures. A total of 71,316,101 cases (5.0% of the population) were attributed to 12 risk factors and 17 fungal diseases. Excluding recurrent Candida vaginitis (4,057/100,000 women) and onychomycosis (2,600/100,000 persons), aspergillosis (317/100,000 persons) was the most common problem; prevalence exceeded that in most other countries. Cryptococcal meningitis, an opportunistic infection, occurs in immunocompetent persons almost twice as often as AIDS. The pattern of fungal infections also varies geographically; Talaromyces marneffei is distributed mainly in the Pearl River Basin, and the Yangtze River bears the greatest histoplasmosis burden. New host populations, new endemic patterns, and high fungal burdens in China, which caused a huge impact on public health, underscore the urgent need for building diagnostic and therapeutic capacity.
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Carvalho GC, de Oliveira RAP, Araujo VHS, Sábio RM, de Carvalho LR, Bauab TM, Corrêa I, Chorilli M. Prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis in Brazil: a systematic review. Med Mycol 2021; 59:946-957. [PMID: 34137857 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (CVV) is a condition whose signs and symptoms are related to inflammation caused by Candida spp infection. It is the second leading cause of vaginitis in the world, representing a public health problem. The present systematic review comes with the proposal of analyze and identify the available evidence on CVV prevalence in Brazil, pointing out its variability by regions. For this, a systematic literature review was carried out with meta-analysis of cross-sectional and cohort studies, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) guide recommendations, and was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020181695). The databases used for survey were LILACS, Scielo, Scopus, PUBMED, Web of Science and CINAHL. Fifteen studies were selected to estimate CVV prevalence in the Brazilian territory. South and Southeast regions have higher prevalences than the North and Northeast regions, no data were found for the Midwest region. The estimated prevalence for Brazil is 18%, however, it is suggested that this number is higher due to underreporting and the presence of asymptomatic cases. Therefore, new epidemiological studies are recommended throughout Brazil, to elucidate the profile of this disease in the country, in addition to assisting in the elaboration of an appropriate prevention plan by state. LAY ABSTRACT Data found in the literature regarding the epidemiological profile of VVC in Brazil are obsolete and incomplete, so the present systematic review has the proposal to analyze and identify the evidence on VVC prevalence in Brazil. The estimated prevalence is 18%, however, this number can be higher.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Corrêa Carvalho
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Hugo Sousa Araujo
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Rafael Miguel Sábio
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Lídia Raquel de Carvalho
- Biostatistics department, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 18618687 Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Taís Maria Bauab
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Ione Corrêa
- Nursing department, Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 18618687 Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- Department of Drugs and Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
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Diagnostic Capacity for Invasive Fungal Infections in the Greek Paediatric Haematology-Oncology Units: Report from the Infection Working Group of the Hellenic Society of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7050357. [PMID: 34062951 PMCID: PMC8147432 DOI: 10.3390/jof7050357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
An audit based on a specific questionnaire was attempted, in order to investigate the mycology laboratory diagnostic capacity for invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) in Greek Paediatric Haematology-Oncology departments/units. The study provided the relevant information for the years 2019 and 2020 and included data from all units, concerning culture-based methods and direct microscopy, phenotypic and molecular identification, sensitivity testing, serology and molecular diagnosis, as well as therapeutic drug monitoring. The target was mostly to reveal the level of laboratory coverage for hospitalised paediatric patients, independently of the possibility of performing the tests in the host hospital, or otherwise to refer the specimens elsewhere. In total, the current study demonstrated that the most important facilities and services regarding the IFD diagnostics for paediatric haematology-oncology patients in Greece are available and relatively easily accessible, with a reasonable turnaround time. Acting as an initial registry for further improvements, the audit can serve as a valuable approach to the actual situation and future perspectives. A national clinical mycology network under the auspices of the relevant scientific societies will probably facilitate collaboration between all the departments (clinical and laboratory) involved in invasive fungal infections and provide an easier approach to any necessary test for any hospitalised patient.
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Diabetes and rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis - A deadly duo. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2021; 20:201-207. [PMID: 34222064 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-021-00730-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis(ROCM) is an uncommon yet potentially fatal fungal infection predominantly seen in immunocompromised individuals. However, there is very limited data available from India regarding outcome of patients with ROCM and diabetes mellitus. Objective To ascertain clinical parameters and factors in the final outcome of patients with diabetes mellitus and ROCM. Materials and Methods This series included retrospective analysis of medical records of 91 patients with diabetes mellitus who were diagnosed with ROCM from january 2007 to june 2019 at a tertiary care hospital in Punjab. Results The mean age of patients was 52.6 years (range 18-82 years), with men constituting the majority (71.4 %). Ophthalmoplegia was the most frequent presenting feature seen in 77 % of patients followed by proptosis (71 %). Intracranial involvement was seen in 20 % of the patients and cavernous sinus thrombosis was diagnosed in 9(10 %) patients. Out of 91 patients, 81 patients were subjected to appropriate surgical procedure depending upon site and extent of involvement by mucorales. A total of 53 (58.2 %) patients survived while 38(41.8 %) patients succumbed. Delay in presentation to hospital, intracranial extension and loss of vision at presentation adversely affected the outcome (p < 0.05). Aggressive surgical management in the form of multiple debridements was superior to single debridement (p < 0.05). Diabetic ketoacidosis did not significantly affect the outcome (p = 0.359). Conclusions ROCM in patients with diabetes mellitus, is a rapidly progressive disease with a high fatality rate and grave outcome unless diagnosed early and managed aggressively.
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A Prospective Multicenter Cohort Surveillance Study of Invasive Aspergillosis in Patients with Hematologic Malignancies in Greece: Impact of the Revised EORTC/MSGERC 2020 Criteria. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7010027. [PMID: 33466525 PMCID: PMC7824879 DOI: 10.3390/jof7010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Data concerning the incidence of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in high-risk patients in Greece are scarce, while the impact of the revised 2020 EORTC/MSGERC consensus criteria definitions on the reported incidence rate of IA remains unknown. A total of 93 adult hematology patients were screened for IA for six months in four tertiary care Greek hospitals. Serial serum specimens (n = 240) the sample was considered negative by PCR were collected twice-weekly and tested for galactomannan (GM) and Aspergillus DNA (PCR) detection. IA was defined according to both the 2008 EORTC/MSG and the 2020 EORTC/MSGERC consensus criteria. Based on the 2008 EORTC/MSG criteria, the incidence rates of probable and possible IA was 9/93 (10%) and 24/93 (26%), respectively, while no proven IA was documented. Acute myeloid leukemia was the most (67%) common underlying disease with most (82%) patients being on antifungal prophylaxis/treatment. Based on the new 2020 EORTC/MSGERC criteria, 2/9 (22%) of probable and 1/24 (4%) of possible cases should be reclassified as possible and probable, respectively. The episodes of probable IA were reduced by 33% when GM alone and 11% when GM + PCR were used as mycological criterion. The incidence rate of IA in hematology patients was 10%. Application of the 2020 EORTC/MSGERC updated criteria results in a reduction in the classification of probable IA particularly when PCR is not available.
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Hammond EE, McDonald CS, Vestbo J, Denning DW. The global impact of Aspergillus infection on COPD. BMC Pulm Med 2020; 20:241. [PMID: 32912168 PMCID: PMC7488557 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-020-01259-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often leads to hospitalisation and invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a serious complication. Aspergillus sensitisation may worsen symptoms in COPD. Methods We identified published papers between January 2000 and May 2019 with > 50 subjects and GOLD criteria for grade II, III or IV (FEV1/FVC < 70% and FEV1 < 80%) using standardised criteria in multiple countries, to re-estimate the prevalence of COPD. Hospitalised COPD patients develop IA in 1.3–3.9%, based on positive cultures of Aspergillus spp. and radiological findings. Given limited data on per-patient annual hospitalisation rates, we assumed a conservative 10.5% estimate. Annual IA mortality in COPD was estimated using the literature rates of 43–72%. A separate literature search assessed the impact of Aspergillus sensitisation on severity of COPD (by FEV1). Results We re-estimated the global prevalence of COPD GOLD stages II-IV at 552,300,599 people (7.39% of the population) with 339,206,893 (8.58%) in Asia, 85,278,783 (8.52%) in the Americas, 64,298,051 (5.37%) in Africa, 59,484,329 (7.77%) in Europe and 4,032,543 (10.86%) in Oceania. An estimated 57,991,563 (10.5%) people with COPD are admitted to hospital annually and of these 753,073 (1.3%) – 2,272,322 (3.9%) develop IA and 540,451–977,082 deaths are predicted annually. Aspergillus sensitisation prevalence in COPD was 13.6% (7.0–18.3%) and not related to lower predicted FEV1% (P > 0.05). Conclusions The prevalence of COPD is much higher than previously estimated. Overall COPD mortality may be higher than estimated and IA probably contributes to many deaths. Improved rapid diagnosis of IA using culture and non-culture based techniques is required in COPD hospital admissions to reduce mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily E Hammond
- School of Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Jørgen Vestbo
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,North West Lung Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - David W Denning
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK. .,National Aspergillosis Centre, Education and Research Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Southmoor Road, Manchester, M23 9LT, UK.
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Osman M, Al Bikai A, Rafei R, Mallat H, Dabboussi F, Hamze M. Update on invasive fungal infections in the Middle Eastern and North African region. Braz J Microbiol 2020; 51:1771-1789. [PMID: 32623654 PMCID: PMC7335363 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-020-00325-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the recent years, the epidemiology of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) has changed worldwide. This is remarkably noticed with the significant increase in high-risk populations. Although surveillance of such infections is essential, data in the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) region remain scarce. In this paper, we reviewed the existing data on the epidemiology of different IFIs in the MENA region. Epidemiological surveillance is crucial to guide optimal healthcare practices. This study can help to guide appropriate interventions and to implement antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention and control programs in countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan Osman
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Aisha Al Bikai
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Rayane Rafei
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Hassan Mallat
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Fouad Dabboussi
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon.
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Arsić Arsenijevic V, Vyzantiadis TA, Mares M, Otasevic S, Tragiannidis A, Janic D. Diagnosis of Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia in Pediatric Patients in Serbia, Greece, and Romania. Current Status and Challenges for Collaboration. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6020049. [PMID: 32316676 PMCID: PMC7345889 DOI: 10.3390/jof6020049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Pneumocystis jirovecii can cause fatal Pneumocystis pneumonia (PcP). Many children have been exposed to the fungus and are colonized in early age, while some individuals at high risk for fungal infections may develop PcP, a disease that is difficult to diagnose. Insufficient laboratory availability, lack of knowledge, and local epidemiology gaps make the problem more serious. Traditionally, the diagnosis is based on microscopic visualization of Pneumocystis in respiratory specimens. The molecular diagnosis is important but not widely used. The aim of this study was to collect initial indicative data from Serbia, Greece, and Romania concerning pediatric patients with suspected PcP in order to: find the key underlying diseases, determine current clinical and laboratory practices, and try to propose an integrative future molecular perspective based on regional collaboration. Data were collected by the search of literature and the use of an online questionnaire, filled by relevant scientists specialized in the field. All three countries presented similar clinical practices in terms of PcP prophylaxis and clinical suspicion. In Serbia and Greece the hematology/oncology diseases are the main risks, while in Romania HIV infection is an additional risk. Molecular diagnosis is available only in Greece. PcP seems to be under-diagnosed and regional collaboration in the field of laboratory diagnosis with an emphasis on molecular approaches may help to cover the gaps and improve the practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Arsić Arsenijevic
- National Reference Laboratory for Medical Mycology, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +381-63-327-564
| | - Timoleon-Achilleas Vyzantiadis
- First Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Mihai Mares
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Ion Ionescu de la Brad University, 700490 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Suzana Otasevic
- Department of Microbiology & Public Health Institute Clinical Center of Nis, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia;
| | - Athanasios Tragiannidis
- Haematology Oncology Unit, Second Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 541 24 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Dragana Janic
- Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
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Hospital-wide antifungal prescription in Greek hospitals: a multicenter repeated point-prevalence study. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 39:243-248. [PMID: 31705340 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-019-03713-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate antifungal prescriptions among hospitalized adult patients in Greek hospitals. This multicenter two-times, 1-day, point-prevalence study was carried out in 2015 and 2017 in five and six hospitals, respectively. Among the 5812 patients screened in both periods, antifungals were prescribed in 129 patients (73 in 2015 and 56 in 2017); antifungals were used as prophylaxis in 31 patients (24%), pre-emptively in 32 (25%), empirically in 38 (30%), and as targeted therapy in 28 (22%). Triazoles were the class most commonly used (65 patients; 50%), followed by echinocandins (59; 46%) and liposomal amphotericin B (12; 9%). The use of echinocandins was higher (P 0.009) in the ICU (16 out of 22 patients), as compared with those in other departments (40%). Antifungal treatment was deemed inappropriate in 32/129 patients (25%) (16% in 2015 versus 36% in 2017; P 0.014). Inappropriate antifungal administration was more common if indicated by the primary physician, as compared with an infectious disease specialist (35% versus 5%; P < 0.001). Candidemia represented the majority of microbiologically documented infections (12 out of 28). Only two cases of proven pulmonary aspergillosis were diagnosed. Fluconazole and echinocandins were most frequently prescribed for identified or presumptive fungal infections, while fluconazole or posaconazole was given most frequently as prophylaxis. Antifungal treatment has been, ultimately, proven unnecessary in one-fourth of cases, underlining the need of a nationwide antifungal stewardship program.
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del Rocío Reyes-Montes M, Duarte-Escalante E, Guadalupe Frías-De-León M, Obed Martínez-Herrera E, Acosta-Altamirano G. Molecular Diagnosis of Invasive Aspergillosis. Mol Med 2019. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.78694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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Maraki S, Mavromanolaki VE, Stafylaki D, Nioti E, Hamilos G, Kasimati A. Epidemiology and antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida isolates from Greek women with vulvovaginal candidiasis. Mycoses 2019; 62:692-697. [PMID: 31132175 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common infection of the genital tract affecting millions of women worldwide. Data on epidemiological trends of VVC in Greece are scarce. This study was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence of VVC among symptomatic women in Crete, Greece, identify the Candida species involved and determine their susceptibility to antifungals. Over a 6-year period (2012-2017), 10 256 symptomatic women with vaginitis were evaluated. Isolation of yeasts was performed on Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol, and the isolates were identified using the API 20 C AUX and/or the Vitek 2 YST card. Susceptibility of the isolates to amphotericin, fluconazole, voriconazole and flucytosine was determined by the Vitek 2 automated system. The results were interpreted according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards criteria. Vaginal swab cultures of 1217 (11.9%) women yielded Candida species. Recurrent VVC was documented in 62 (5.1%) of them. Candida albicans was the most frequently isolated species (75.6%), followed by Candida glabrata (13.6%). Overall, resistance rates to amphotericin B, fluconazole, voriconazole and flucytosine were 0.2%, 6.6%, 1.4% and 2.1%, respectively. Fluconazole resistance of C. albicans significantly increased in the second period of the study (2015-2017) (P = 0.031). This study demonstrated that VVC is a common infection among women in our region, with C. albicans being the predominant species involved. Although resistance to antifungals was infrequent, resistance to fluconazole among C. albicans isolates was found to significantly increase with time. Continued surveillance of changes in species distribution and susceptibility to antifungals are necessary to guide treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Maraki
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Dimitra Stafylaki
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Eleni Nioti
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - George Hamilos
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Anna Kasimati
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
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Global Epidemiology of Mucormycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5010026. [PMID: 30901907 PMCID: PMC6462913 DOI: 10.3390/jof5010026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 438] [Impact Index Per Article: 87.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an angio-invasive fungal infection, associated with high morbidity and mortality. A change in the epidemiology of mucormycosis has been observed in recent years with the rise in incidence, new causative agents and susceptible population. The rise has been perceived globally, but it is very high in the Asian continent. Though diabetes mellitus overshadow all other risk factors in Asia, post-tuberculosis and chronic renal failure have emerged as new risk groups. The rhino-cerebral form of mucormycosis is most commonly seen in patients with diabetes mellitus, whereas, pulmonary mucormycosis in patients with haematological malignancy and transplant recipients. In immunocompetent hosts, cutaneous mucormycosis is commonly seen following trauma. The intriguing clinical entity, isolated renal mucormycosis in immunocompetent patients is only reported from China and India. A new clinical entity, indolent mucormycosis in nasal sinuses, is recently recognized. The causative agents of mucormycosis vary across different geographic locations. Though Rhizopusarrhizus is the most common agent isolated worldwide, Apophysomycesvariabilis is predominant in Asia and Lichtheimia species in Europe. The new causative agents, Rhizopus homothallicus, Mucor irregularis, and Thamnostylum lucknowense are reported from Asia. In conclusion, with the change in epidemiology of mucormycosis country-wise studies are warranted to estimate disease burden in different risk groups, analyse the clinical disease pattern and identify the new etiological agents.
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Kotsopoulou M, Papadaki C, Anargyrou K, Spyridonidis A, Baltadakis I, Papadaki HA, Angelopoulou M, Pappa V, Liakou K, Tzanetakou M, Moustaka M, Vassilopoulos G. Effectiveness and Safety of Micafungin in Managing Invasive Fungal Infections among Patients in Greece with Hematologic Disorders: The ASPIRE Study. Infect Dis Ther 2019; 8:255-268. [PMID: 30767170 PMCID: PMC6522581 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-019-0236-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Invasive candidiasis (IC) can be a life-threatening infection in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with cancer, hematologic diseases and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of micafungin in patients with hematologic malignancies or HSCT recipients, relevant to clinical presentation of IC, in real-life practice in Greece. METHODS ASPIRE was a phase IV, multicenter, non-interventional, prospective cohort study, conducted at ten tertiary hospitals in Greece, in adults with hematologic disease. Micafungin treatment for IC or prophylaxis for Candida infection was administered per standard clinical practice until a clinical outcome (success or failure) was reached. Treatment success was defined by the EORTC/MSG criteria for invasive fungal infections (IFI) and was assessed by the investigator. Treatment discontinuation and safety were also evaluated. RESULTS One hundred forty-three patients were enrolled. Median age was 62; 85 (59.4%) patients were male, and 133 (93.0%) had Greek ethnicity. One hundred twenty-six (88.1%) patients had hematologic malignancies, and 21 (14.7%) had received HSCT. Prophylaxis was administered to 74 (51.7%) patients [median (range) dose: 50 (50-150) mg/day] with no signs of IFI. Overall, 52 (36.4%) patients with possible IFI at baseline received micafungin treatment [100 (50-125) mg/day] versus 12 (17.2%) with probable [100 (75-150) mg/day] and 5 (3.5%) with confirmed [125 (100-150) mg/day] IFI. Treatment success was 91.6% (95% CI 85.80-95.59; n = 131) overall and 90.5% (n = 67) in patients receiving prophylaxis. Median time on treatment was 13 days. Treatment discontinuation (n = 26; 18.2%) was not related to adverse events. No treatment-related serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION Micafungin treatment for IC or prophylaxis for Candida infection was effective and well tolerated in patients with hematologic disorders in clinical practice in Greece. These results demonstrate that micafungin could be used more widely for prophylaxis. Further work is required to determine the efficacy and safety of micafungin for the management of IFIs in hematologic settings. FUNDING Astellas Pharma Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ioannis Baltadakis
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Evaggelismos Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Helen A Papadaki
- University of Crete School of Medicine and University General Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Maria Angelopoulou
- Department of Hematology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Pappa
- Second Department of Internal Medicine and Research Institute, Attikon University General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Kleoniki Liakou
- Medical Affairs, Astellas Pharmaceuticals AEBE, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Marina Moustaka
- Medical Affairs, Astellas Pharmaceuticals AEBE, Athens, Greece
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Epidemiology of Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Hospitalized Patients in Poland During 2009–2016. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1160:73-80. [DOI: 10.1007/5584_2019_347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Sipsas NV, Pagoni MN, Kofteridis DP, Meletiadis J, Vrioni G, Papaioannou M, Antoniadou A, Petrikkos G, Samonis G. Management of Invasive Fungal Infections in Adult Patients with Hematological Malignancies in Greece during the Financial Crisis: Challenges and Recommendations. J Fungi (Basel) 2018; 4:jof4030094. [PMID: 30096956 PMCID: PMC6162614 DOI: 10.3390/jof4030094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are concerns that the financial crisis in Greece negatively affected the management of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) among patients with hematological malignancies (HM). A working group (WG) was formed to explore the situation and make recommendations. A questionnaire was created and distributed to physicians caring for patients with HM, to gather information in a standardized manner on prescribing physicians, patient characteristics, availability of diagnostics, antifungal treatment practices and the conditions and particularities of Greek hospitals. A total of 141 physicians from 36 hematology units and laboratories located in 26 Greek hospitals participated. Regarding hospitalization conditions, only 56% reported that their patients were treated in isolated single or double bed rooms, 22% reported availability of HEPA filters, 47% reported construction works in progress, and an alarming 18% reported the presence of birds on open windows. Regarding diagnosis, only 31% reported availability of biomarkers for diagnosis of IFIs, 76% reported that CT scans were performed in a timely fashion, 42% reported prompt availability of broncho-alveolar lavage, and only 6% availability of therapeutic drug monitoring. Of concern, 26% of the responders reported non-availability of some antifungals. In conclusion, significant challenges exist for the optimal management of IFIs in patients with HM in Greece.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos V Sipsas
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Laiko General Hospital and Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
| | - Maria N Pagoni
- Haematology-Lymphomas Department and BMT Unit, Evangelismos Hospital, 10676 Athens, Greece.
| | - Diamantis P Kofteridis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases Unit, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, 71500 Crete, Greece.
| | - Joseph Meletiadis
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Attikon University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece.
| | - Georgia Vrioni
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
| | - Maria Papaioannou
- Hematology Unit, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54621 Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Anastasia Antoniadou
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, University General Hospital Attikon, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece.
| | - George Petrikkos
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, University General Hospital Attikon, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece.
| | - George Samonis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases Unit, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, 71500 Crete, Greece.
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Ashu EE, Xu J. Strengthening the One Health Agenda: The Role of Molecular Epidemiology in Aspergillus Threat Management. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:genes9070359. [PMID: 30029491 PMCID: PMC6071254 DOI: 10.3390/genes9070359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 07/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The United Nations’ One Health initiative advocates the collaboration of multiple sectors within the global and local health authorities toward the goal of better public health management outcomes. The emerging global health threat posed by Aspergillus species is an example of a management challenge that would benefit from the One Health approach. In this paper, we explore the potential role of molecular epidemiology in Aspergillus threat management and strengthening of the One Health initiative. Effective management of Aspergillus at a public health level requires the development of rapid and accurate diagnostic tools to not only identify the infecting pathogen to species level, but also to the level of individual genotype, including drug susceptibility patterns. While a variety of molecular methods have been developed for Aspergillus diagnosis, their use at below-species level in clinical settings has been very limited, especially in resource-poor countries and regions. Here we provide a framework for Aspergillus threat management and describe how molecular epidemiology and experimental evolution methods could be used for predicting resistance through drug exposure. Our analyses highlight the need for standardization of loci and methods used for molecular diagnostics, and surveillance across Aspergillus species and geographic regions. Such standardization will enable comparisons at national and global levels and through the One Health approach, strengthen Aspergillus threat management efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eta E Ashu
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, Ontario, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
| | - Jianping Xu
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. W, Hamilton, Ontario, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
- Public Research Laboratory, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan 571199, China.
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Corzo-León DE, Chora-Hernández LD, Rodríguez-Zulueta AP, Walsh TJ. Diabetes mellitus as the major risk factor for mucormycosis in Mexico: Epidemiology, diagnosis, and outcomes of reported cases. Med Mycol 2018; 56:29-43. [PMID: 28431008 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an emerging infectious disease with high rates of associated mortality and morbidity. Little is known about the characteristics of mucormycosis or entomophthoromycosis occurring in Mexico. A search strategy was performed of literature published in journals found in available databases and theses published online at Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) library website reporting clinical cases or clinical case series of mucormycosis and entomophthoromycosis occurring in Mexico between 1982 and 2016. Among the 418 cases identified, 72% were diabetic patients, and sinusitis accounted for 75% of the reported cases. Diabetes mellitus was not a risk factor for entomophthoromycosis. Mortality rate was 51% (125/244). Rhizopus species were the most frequent isolates (59%, 148/250). Amphotericin B deoxycholate was used in 89% of cases (204/227), while surgery and antifungal management as combined treatment was used in 90% (172/191). In diabetic individuals, this combined treatment approach was associated with a higher probability of survival (95% vs 66%, OR = 0.1, 95% CI, 0.02-0.43' P = .002). The most common complications were associated with nephrotoxicity and prolonged hospitalization due to IV antifungal therapy. An algorithm is proposed to establish an early diagnosis of rhino-orbital cerebral (ROC) mucormycosis based on standardized identification of warning signs and symptoms and performing an early direct microbiological exam and histopathological identification through a multidisciplinary medical and surgical team. In summary, diabetes mellitus was the most common risk factor for mucormycosis in Mexico; combined antifungal therapy and surgery in ROC mucormycosis significantly improved survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora E Corzo-León
- Department of Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Mexico City, Mexico.,Medical Mycology and Fungal immunology / Wellcome Trust Strategic Award Program. Aberdeen Fungal Group, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Luis D Chora-Hernández
- Department of Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Mexico City, Mexico.,Department of Infectious Diseases. Hospital General No. 1 Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Morelia Michoacan
| | - Ana P Rodríguez-Zulueta
- Department of Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Thomas J Walsh
- Transplantation-Oncology Infectious Diseases Program and Infectious Diseases Translational Research Laboratory, Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Microbiology & Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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Arsenijević VA, Denning DW. Estimated Burden of Serious Fungal Diseases in Serbia. J Fungi (Basel) 2018; 4:E76. [PMID: 29941824 PMCID: PMC6162477 DOI: 10.3390/jof4030076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
For the first time, we aimed to estimate the burden of serious fungal infections or diseases (SFD) and highlight national epidemiological features in Serbia. Data on population and underlining conditions were extracted from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia, World Bank, the Institute of Public Health of Serbia, the World Health Organization, National reference laboratory for medical mycology, the national registries of Serbian professional societies, and relevant publications. The population structure/inhabitants in 2016 (not including the autonomous region Kosovo & Metohija) was 7,058,322; with 6,041,743 adults (85.6%). The populations at risk (total cases per year) were: HIV infected 2441; acute myeloid leukemia 212; stem cell transplantation 151; solid organ transplants 59; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 250,302; adult asthmatics 311,806; adult cystic fibrosis 65; pulmonary tuberculosis 898; lung cancer 7260; intensive care unit admissions 19,821; and renal support 520. Annual fungal disease cases estimated are: candidemia 518; invasive aspergillosis 619; Candida peritonitis 187; Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia 62; cryptococcosis 5; mucormycosis or fusariosis 23; severe asthma with fungal sensitization 10,393; allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis 9094; chronic pulmonary aspergillosis 448, recurrent Candida vaginitis 135,303; oral candidiasis 208,489; esophageal candidiasis 173, fungal keratitis 70; tinea capitis 300; and onychomycosis 342,721. We expect that 156,825 people suffer from serious SFD each year (2221/100,000), and 409 dies annually. Additionally, the prevalence of superficial infections exceeds 1,008,995 cases (14,295/100,000). The first Rhinosporidium outbreak in Europe was associated with Serbian Silver Lake. The plant pathogen Fusarium seems to be emerging in Serbian pediatric haematooncology settings. Candida auris and endemic mycoses have not been observed to date. These general estimates provide a primer for further efforts to study fungal epidemiology in Serbia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Arsić Arsenijević
- National Reference Laboratory for Medical Mycology, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića Street 1, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - David W Denning
- The National Aspergillosis Centre, University Hospital of South Manchester, The University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
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Bongomin F, Gago S, Oladele RO, Denning DW. Global and Multi-National Prevalence of Fungal Diseases-Estimate Precision. J Fungi (Basel) 2017; 3:E57. [PMID: 29371573 PMCID: PMC5753159 DOI: 10.3390/jof3040057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1439] [Impact Index Per Article: 205.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases kill more than 1.5 million and affect over a billion people. However, they are still a neglected topic by public health authorities even though most deaths from fungal diseases are avoidable. Serious fungal infections occur as a consequence of other health problems including asthma, AIDS, cancer, organ transplantation and corticosteroid therapies. Early accurate diagnosis allows prompt antifungal therapy; however this is often delayed or unavailable leading to death, serious chronic illness or blindness. Recent global estimates have found 3,000,000 cases of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, ~223,100 cases of cryptococcal meningitis complicating HIV/AIDS, ~700,000 cases of invasive candidiasis, ~500,000 cases of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, ~250,000 cases of invasive aspergillosis, ~100,000 cases of disseminated histoplasmosis, over 10,000,000 cases of fungal asthma and ~1,000,000 cases of fungal keratitis occur annually. Since 2013, the Leading International Fungal Education (LIFE) portal has facilitated the estimation of the burden of serious fungal infections country by country for over 5.7 billion people (>80% of the world's population). These studies have shown differences in the global burden between countries, within regions of the same country and between at risk populations. Here we interrogate the accuracy of these fungal infection burden estimates in the 43 published papers within the LIFE initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Bongomin
- The National Aspergillosis Center, Education and Research Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK.
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
- Global Action Fund for Fungal Infections, 1211 Geneva 1, Switzerland.
| | - Sara Gago
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
- Global Action Fund for Fungal Infections, 1211 Geneva 1, Switzerland.
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Core Technology Facility, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13, 9PL, UK.
| | - Rita O Oladele
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
- Global Action Fund for Fungal Infections, 1211 Geneva 1, Switzerland.
| | - David W Denning
- The National Aspergillosis Center, Education and Research Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK.
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
- Global Action Fund for Fungal Infections, 1211 Geneva 1, Switzerland.
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Core Technology Facility, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13, 9PL, UK.
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Chayakulkeeree M, Denning DW. Serious fungal infections in Thailand. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2017; 36:931-935. [PMID: 28161742 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-017-2927-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The burden of serious fungal infection in Thailand is increasing but data regarding its incidence and prevalence are lacking. In this study we aimed to estimate the burden of serious fungal diseases in Thailand based on the size of the populations at risk and available epidemiological databases. Data derived from The Bureau of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Thai Ministry of Public Health, World Health Organisation, international and local reports, and some unreported data were used. When no data existed, risk populations were used to estimate frequencies of fungal infections, using previously described methodology by LIFE. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (>4 episodes per year) is estimated to occur in 3,310 per 100,000 population. Using a previously described rate that 14/10,000 admissions are with fungaemia and 94% of those are Candida, we estimated 8,650 patients with candidaemia. The prevalence of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is relatively high with a total of 19,044, approximately half subsequent to pulmonary tuberculosis. Invasive aspergillosis is estimated to affect 941 patients following leukaemia therapy, transplantations, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, approximately 1.4/100,000. In addition, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis and severe asthma with fungal sensitisation were estimated at approximately 58.4/100,000 and 77/100,000, respectively. Given approximately 8,134 new cases of AIDS annually, cryptococcal meningitis, Pneumocystis pneumonia, and Talaromyces marneffei infection are estimated at 1.9/100,000, 2.6/100,000, and 0.3/100,000, respectively. The present study indicates that about 1.93% (1,254,562) of the population is affected by serious fungal infections. Owing to the lack of data, reports, and statistics, the number of patients with mycoses in Thailand can only be estimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Chayakulkeeree
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - D W Denning
- The National Aspergillosis Centre in association with the LIFE program at www.LIFE-worldwide.org, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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