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Fathallah A, Chouaieb H, Saief MB, Ismaïl S, Said MB, Denning DW. The incidence and prevalence of serious fungal diseases in Tunisia. J Mycol Med 2024; 34:101479. [PMID: 38604083 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2024.101479] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
With increasing concern about the negative health impact of fungal disease, there is a need to survey what is and is not known about the epidemiology of these infections in Tunisia. We have estimated the incidence and prevalence of the most serious fungal diseases in Tunisia for the first time. Using published literature from Tunisia, or if absent other countries, we have estimated the burden of life-threatening fungal infections and those causing significant morbidity, using deterministic modeling, based on populations at greatest risk. An estimated 250,494 (2.12% of the Tunisian population) are affected by a serious fungal disease annually. Invasive and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis are relatively common with 708 and 2090 patients affected, partly linked to the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Fungal asthma (allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis and severe asthma with fungal sensitization) have an estimated prevalence of 38,264 (5.8% of the adult asthma population). Fungal keratitis probably affects 1,761 eyes annually, often leading to uniocular blindness. Candidaemia and Candida peritonitis probably affect at least 680 people annually, with a high mortality. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis probably affects over 200,000 women. While fungal diseases are regularly diagnosed in Tunisia, epidemiological studies with denominators are uncommon. Some fungal diseases are poorly addressed with the current diagnostic portfolio, and surveillance is lacking. Studies on these diseases and the implementation of a national program of surveillance are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akila Fathallah
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, Farhat Hached Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia; Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse Mohamed El Karoui Street, Bp 126,4002 Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Hamed Chouaieb
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, Farhat Hached Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia; Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse Mohamed El Karoui Street, Bp 126,4002 Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Moadh Ben Saief
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, Farhat Hached Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Samar Ismaïl
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, Farhat Hached Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia; Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse Mohamed El Karoui Street, Bp 126,4002 Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Moncef Ben Said
- Laboratory of Parasitology - Mycology, Farhat Hached Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia; Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse Mohamed El Karoui Street, Bp 126,4002 Sousse, Tunisia
| | - David W Denning
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
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2
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Alsalman J, Althaqafi A, Alsaeed A, Subhi A, Mady AF, AlHejazi A, Francis B, Alturkistani HH, Ayas M, Bilbisi M, Alsharidah S. Middle Eastern Expert Opinion: Strategies for Successful Antifungal Stewardship Program Implementation in Invasive Fungal Infections. Cureus 2024; 16:e61127. [PMID: 38919246 PMCID: PMC11198984 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, global public health efforts have increasingly emphasized the critical role of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in improving outcomes, reducing costs, and combating the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. However, antifungal stewardship (AFS) has remained relatively overlooked despite the staggering impact of invasive fungal infections (IFIs). This burden is particularly pronounced in hospitals worldwide, with the Middle East facing significant unmet needs. The rising population of immunocompromised individuals vulnerable to IFI has prompted an increased reliance on antifungal agents for both prevention and treatment. Given the considerable mortality associated with IFIs and the emergence of antifungal resistance, implementing AFS programs in hospital settings is becoming increasingly urgent. In this article, we offer expert insights into the strategies that can be used for successful antifungal stewardship program implementation in IFI. Drawing upon the extensive clinical experience of a multinational and multidisciplinary panel, we present recommendations for optimizing AFS practices. We delve into the challenges and practical considerations of tailoring local AFS initiatives to the evolving landscape of fungal infections. Additionally, we provide actionable recommendations and position statements for the effective implementation of AFS programs, informed by the collective clinical experiences of panel members across their respective countries of practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdulhakeem Althaqafi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
- Infectious Diseases, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, SAU
- Department of Medicine/Infectious Diseases, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ahmad Alsaeed
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
- Adult Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Princess Noorah Oncology Center, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of the National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ahmad Subhi
- Adult Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Al-Qassimi Hospital, Emirates Health Services, Sharjah, ARE
| | - Ahmed F Mady
- Critical Care Medicine, King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Ayman AlHejazi
- Department of Oncology, King Abdulaziz Medical City Riyadh, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Bassam Francis
- Hematology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Center, Baghdad, IRQ
| | | | - Mouhab Ayas
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Montaser Bilbisi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Abdali Medical Center, Amman, JOR
| | - Sondus Alsharidah
- Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Unit, Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) Children's Specialized Hospital, Sabah Central Health Region, KWT
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3
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Lass-Flörl C, Kanj SS, Govender NP, Thompson GR, Ostrosky-Zeichner L, Govrins MA. Invasive candidiasis. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:20. [PMID: 38514673 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00503-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis is an important fungal disease caused by Candida albicans and, increasingly, non-albicans Candida pathogens. Invasive Candida infections originate most frequently from endogenous human reservoirs and are triggered by impaired host defences. Signs and symptoms of invasive candidiasis are non-specific; candidaemia is the most diagnosed manifestation, with disseminated candidiasis affecting single or multiple organs. Diagnosis poses many challenges, and conventional culture techniques are frequently supplemented by non-culture-based assays. The attributable mortality from candidaemia and disseminated infections is ~30%. Fluconazole resistance is a concern for Nakaseomyces glabratus, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida auris and less so in Candida tropicalis infection; acquired echinocandin resistance remains uncommon. The epidemiology of invasive candidiasis varies in different geographical areas and within various patient populations. Risk factors include intensive care unit stay, central venous catheter use, broad-spectrum antibiotics use, abdominal surgery and immune suppression. Early antifungal treatment and central venous catheter removal form the cornerstones to decrease mortality. The landscape of novel therapeutics is growing; however, the application of new drugs requires careful selection of eligible patients as the spectrum of activity is limited to a few fungal species. Unanswered questions and knowledge gaps define future research priorities and a personalized approach to diagnosis and treatment of invasive candidiasis is of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Lass-Flörl
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, ECMM Excellence Centres of Medical Mycology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Souha S Kanj
- Infectious Diseases Division, and Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand and National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - George R Thompson
- UC Davis Health Medical Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | | | - Miriam Alisa Govrins
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, ECMM Excellence Centres of Medical Mycology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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4
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Hassoun N, Kassem II, Hamze M, El Tom J, Papon N, Osman M. Antifungal Use and Resistance in a Lower-Middle-Income Country: The Case of Lebanon. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1413. [PMID: 37760710 PMCID: PMC10525119 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Antifungal resistance is often underestimated in both healthcare and non-clinical settings. In LMICs, it is believed that the inappropriate use of antifungals, limited surveillance systems, and low diagnostic capacities are significant drivers of resistance. Like other LMICs, Lebanon lacks antifungal use and resistance surveillance programs, and the impact of antifungal resistance in the country remains unclear, especially during the unfolding economic crisis that has severely affected medical care and access to safe food and water. Interestingly, the widespread use of antifungals in medicine and agriculture has raised concerns about the development of antifungal resistance in Lebanon. In this light, we aimed to survey available antifungal drugs in the country and evaluate susceptibility patterns of prevalent fungal species to guide empiric treatments and develop antifungal stewardship programs in Lebanon. We noted that the economic crisis resulted in significant increases in antifungal drug prices. Additionally, a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases identified 15 studies on fungal infections and antifungal resistance conducted from 1998 to 2023 in Lebanon. While data on antifungal resistance are limited, 87% of available studies in Lebanon focused on candidiasis, while the remaining 13% were on aspergillosis. Overall, we observed a marked antimicrobial resistance among Candida and Aspergillus species. Additionally, incidences of Candida auris infections have increased in Lebanese hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a uniform resistance to fluconazole and amphotericin-B. Taken together, a One Health approach, reliable diagnostics, and prudent antifungal use are required to control the spread of resistant fungal pathogens in healthcare and agricultural settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesrine Hassoun
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Issmat I. Kassem
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, 1109 Experiment Street, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Jad El Tom
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos 1401, Lebanon;
| | - Nicolas Papon
- University of Angers, University of Brest, IRF, SFR ICAT, F-49000 Angers, France;
| | - Marwan Osman
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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5
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AlMaghrabi RS, Al-Musawi T, Albaksami O, Subhi AL, Fakih RE, Stone NR. Challenges in the Management of Invasive Fungal Infections in the Middle East: Expert Opinion to Optimize Management Using a Multidisciplinary Approach. Cureus 2023; 15:e44356. [PMID: 37779746 PMCID: PMC10539715 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infection (IFI) is a significant global healthcare concern among critically ill and immunocompromised patients. In Middle Eastern countries, IFI has been steadily increasing among hospitalized patients in the past two decades. Diagnosis of IFI at an early stage is crucial for efficient management. Invasive fungal infection management is complex and requires the involvement of physicians from different specialties. There are several challenges associated with IFI management in the countries in the Middle East. This review aims to understand the key challenges associated with IFI management in the Middle East, encompassing epidemiology, diagnosis, therapeutic options, and optimizing a multidisciplinary approach. In addition, this review aims to incorporate expert opinions from multidisciplinary fields for optimizing IFI management in different Middle Eastern countries by addressing key decision points throughout the patient's journey. Lack of epidemiological data on fungal infections, slow and poorly sensitive conventional culture-based diagnostic tests, limited availability of biomarker testing, lack of awareness of clinical symptoms of the disease, limited knowledge on fungal infections, lack of local practice guidelines, and complicated disease management are the major challenges associated with IFI diagnosis and management in the Middle Eastern countries. Implementation of a multidisciplinary approach, antifungal stewardship, improved knowledge of fungal infections, the use of rapid diagnostic tests, and enhanced epidemiological research are warranted to lower the IFI burden in the Middle East.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem S AlMaghrabi
- Department of Medicine, Organ Transplant Center, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Tariq Al-Musawi
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Al Salam Hospital, Al-Khobar, SAU
- Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Bahrain, Busaiteen, BHR
| | - Osama Albaksami
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infectious Disease Hospital, Kuwait City, KWT
| | - Ahmad L Subhi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Al-Qassimi Hospital, Sharjah, ARE
| | - Riad E Fakih
- Department of Hematology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, SAU
- Department of Clinical Research, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Neil R Stone
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London, GBR
- Department of Microbiology, University College London Hospitals, London, GBR
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6
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Husni R, Bou Zerdan M, Samaha N, Helou M, Mahfouz Y, Saniour R, Hourani S, Kolanjian H, Afif C, Azar E, El Jisr T, Mokhbat J, Abboud E, Feghali R, Abboud E, Matta H, Karayakouboglo G, Matar M, Moghnieh R, Daoud Z. Characterization and susceptibility of non-albicans Candida isolated from various clinical specimens in Lebanese hospitals. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1115055. [PMID: 36969669 PMCID: PMC10036786 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1115055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundInvasive fungal infections have presented a challenge in treatment. In the past, it was known that the frontrunner in such infections is Candida albicans with little emphasis placed on non-albicans Candida species (NAC). Studies worldwide have shown a rise in fungal infections attributed to non-albicans Candida species. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiology of NAC infections along with an overview of resistance in Lebanese hospitals.MethodsThis is a two-year observational multi-central descriptive study. Between September 2016 and May of 2018, a total of 1000 isolates were collected from 10 different hospitals distributed all over the country. For the culture, Sabouraud Dextrose Agar was used. Antifungal Susceptibility was evaluated by determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) in broth (microdilution) of the different antifungal treatments.ResultsOut of the 1000 collected isolates, Candida glabrata, being the most isolated species (40.8%), followed by Candida tropicalis: 231(23.1%), Candida parapsilosis: 103(10.3%), and other NAC species at lower percentage. Most of these isolates (88.67%) were susceptible to posaconazole, 98.22% were susceptible to micafungin, and 10% were susceptible to caspofungin.ConclusionThe change of etiology of fungal infections involving a significant increase in NAC cases is alarming due to the different antifungal susceptibility patterns and the lack of local guidelines to guide the treatment. In this context, proper identification of such organisms is of utmost importance. The data presented here can help in establishing guidelines for the treatment of candida infections to decrease morbidity and mortality. Future surveillance data are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rola Husni
- Lebanese American University, School of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lebanese American University-Rizk Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
- *Correspondence: Rola Husni
| | - Maroun Bou Zerdan
- Department of Internal Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Nadia Samaha
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Mariana Helou
- Lebanese American University, School of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lebanese American University-Rizk Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Youssef Mahfouz
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Rim Saniour
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Sawsan Hourani
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Harout Kolanjian
- Lebanese American University, School of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lebanese American University-Rizk Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Claude Afif
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint George Hospital-University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Eid Azar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint George Hospital-University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tamima El Jisr
- Department of Laboratory, Makased General Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Jacques Mokhbat
- Lebanese American University, School of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lebanese American University-Rizk Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Emma Abboud
- Department of Laboratory, Mount Liban Hospital, Hazmiyeh, Lebanon
| | - Rita Feghali
- Department of Laboratory, Rafic Hariri University Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Edmond Abboud
- Department of Laboratory, The Middle East Institute of Health University Hospital, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon
| | - Hiam Matta
- Saint Georges Ajaltoun Hospital, Ajaltoun, Lebanon
| | | | - Madonna Matar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Notre Dame de Secours University Hospital, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Rima Moghnieh
- Lebanese American University, School of Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Lebanese American University-Rizk Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ziad Daoud
- College of Medicine, Central Michigan University, Saginaw, MI, United States
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Michigan Health Clinics, Saginaw, MI, United States
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Salah H, Houbraken J, Boekhout T, Almaslamani M, Taj-Aldeen SJ. Molecular epidemiology of clinical filamentous fungi in Qatar beyond Aspergillus and Fusarium with notes on the rare species. Med Mycol 2023; 61:6967136. [PMID: 36592959 PMCID: PMC9874029 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to an increasing number of patients at risk (i.e., those with a highly compromised immune system and/or receiving aggressive chemotherapy treatment), invasive fungal infections (IFI) are increasingly being reported and associated with high mortality rates. Aspergillus spp., particularly A. fumigatus, is the major cause of IFI caused by filamentous fungi around the world followed by Fusarium spp., however, other fungi are emerging as human pathogens. The aim of this study was to explore the epidemiology and prevalence of the non-Aspergillus and non-Fusarium filamentous fungi in human clinical samples over an 11-year period in Qatar using molecular techniques. We recovered 53 filamentous fungal isolates from patients with various clinical conditions. Most patients were males (75.5%), 9.4% were immunocompromised, 20.7% had IFI, and 11.3% died within 30 days of diagnosis. The fungal isolates were recovered from a variety of clinical samples, including the nasal cavity, wounds, respiratory samples, body fluids, eye, ear, tissue, abscess, and blood specimens. Among the fungi isolated, 49% were dematiaceous fungi, followed by Mucorales (30%), with the latter group Mucorales being the major cause of IFI (5/11, 45.5%). The current study highlights the epidemiology and spectrum of filamentous fungal genera, other than Aspergillus and Fusarium, recovered from human clinical samples in Qatar, excluding superficial infections, which can aid in the surveillance of uncommon and emerging mycoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husam Salah
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Husam Salah, M.Sc. Division
of Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Hamad Medical
Corporation, Doha, Qatar, PO Box 3050. Tel: +97-444-391-047. E-mail: ;
| | - Jos Houbraken
- Applied and Industrial Mycology, Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity
Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Teun Boekhout
- Yeast Research, Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute,
Utrecht, Netherlands,Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of
Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The
Netherlands
| | | | - Saad J Taj-Aldeen
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and
Pathology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha,
Qatar,Department of Biology, College of Science, University of
Babylon, Hilla, Iraq
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Lakoh S, Kamudumuli PS, Penney ROS, Haumba SM, Jarvis JN, Hassan AJ, Moudoute NLE, Ocansey BK, Izco S, Kipkerich S, Sacarlal J, Awopeju AT, Govender NP, Munyanji CIM, Guyguy K, Orefuwa E, Denning DW. Diagnostic capacity for invasive fungal infections in advanced HIV disease in Africa: a continent-wide survey. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2022; 23:598-608. [PMID: 36565714 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(22)00656-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungal infections are common causes of death and morbidity in those with advanced HIV infection. Data on access to diagnostic tests in Africa are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic capacity for invasive fungal infections in advanced HIV disease in Africa. METHODS We did a continent-wide survey by collecting data from 48 of 49 target countries across Africa with a population of more than 1 million; for Lesotho, only information on the provision of cryptococcal antigen testing was obtained. This survey covered 99·65% of the African population. We did the survey in six stages: first, questionnaire development, adaptation, and improvement; second, questionnaire completion by in-country respondents; third, questionnaire review and data analysis followed by video conference calls with respondents; fourth, external validation from public or private sources; fifth, country validation by video conference with senior figures in the Ministry of Health; and sixth, through five regional webinars led by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention with individual country profiles exchanged by email. Data was compiled and visualised using the Quantum Geographic Information System software and Natural Earth vectors to design maps showing access. FINDINGS Data were collected between Oct 1, 2020, and Oct 31, 2022 in the 48 target countries. We found that cryptococcal antigen testing is frequently accessible to 358·39 million (25·5%) people in 14 African countries. Over 1031·49 million (73·3%) of 1·4 billion African people have access to a lumbar puncture. India ink microscopy is frequently accessible to 471·03 million (33·5%) people in 23 African countries. About 1041·62 million (74·0%) and 1105·11 million (78·5%) people in Africa do not have access to histoplasmosis and Pneumocystis pneumonia diagnostics in either private or public facilities, respectively. Fungal culture is available in 41 countries covering a population of 1·289 billion (94%) people in Africa. MRI is routinely accessible to 453·59 million (32·2%) people in Africa and occasionally to 390·58 million (27·8%) people. There was a moderate correlation between antiretroviral therapy usage and external expenditure on HIV care (R2=0·42) but almost none between external expenditure and AIDS death rate (R2=0·18), when analysed for 40 African countries. INTERPRETATION This survey highlights the enormous challenges in the diagnosis of HIV-associated Pneumocystis pneumonia, cryptococcal disease, histoplasmosis, and other fungal infections in Africa. Urgent political and global health leadership could improve the diagnosis of fungal infections in Africa, reducing avoidable deaths. FUNDING Global Action For Fungal Infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulaiman Lakoh
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | | | - Samson M Haumba
- Center for Global Health Practice and Impact, Georgetown University, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | | | - Bright K Ocansey
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana; Manchester Fungal Infection Group, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Santiago Izco
- Office of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Hepatitis, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Malabo, Equatorial Guinea
| | - Stephen Kipkerich
- National Public Health Reference Laboratories, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jahit Sacarlal
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Abimbola T Awopeju
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, a Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Medical Microbiology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK; MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Kamwiziku Guyguy
- Department of Microbiology, Kinshasa University Hospital, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, DR Congo
| | - Emma Orefuwa
- Global Action For Fungal Infections, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David W Denning
- Global Action For Fungal Infections, Geneva, Switzerland; Manchester Fungal Infection Group, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
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9
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Dougue AN, El‐Kholy MA, Giuffrè L, Galeano G, D′Aleo F, Kountchou CL, Nangwat C, Dzoyem JP, Giosa D, Pernice I, Shawky SM, Ngouana T, Boyom FF, Romeo O. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis reveals many novel genotypes and a high level of genetic diversity in Candida tropicalis isolates from Italy and Africa. Mycoses 2022; 65:989-1000. [PMID: 35713604 PMCID: PMC9796097 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida tropicalis is a human pathogenic yeast frequently isolated in Latin America and Asian-Pacific regions, although recent studies showed that it is also becoming increasingly widespread throughout several African and south-European countries. Nevertheless, relatively little is known about its global patterns of genetic variation as most of existing multilocus sequence typing (MLST) data come from Asia and there are no genotyped African isolates. OBJECTIVES We report detailed genotyping data from a large set of C. tropicalis isolates recovered from different clinical sources in Italy, Egypt and Cameroon in order to expand the allele/genotype library of MLST database (https://pubmlst.org/ctropicalis), and to explore the genetic diversity in this species. METHODS A total of 103 C. tropicalis isolates were genotyped using the MLST scheme developed for this species. All isolates were also tested for in vitro susceptibility to various antifungals to assess whether certain genotypes were associated with drug-resistance. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS A total of 104 different alleles were detected across the MLST-loci investigated. The allelic diversity found at these loci resulted in 51 unique MLST genotypes of which 36 (70.6%) were novel. Global optimal eBURST analysis identified 18 clonal complexes (CCs) and confirm the existence of a specific Italian-cluster (CC36). Three CCs were also statistically associated with fluconazole resistance, which was elevated in Cameroon and Egypt. Our data show high genetic diversity in our isolates suggesting that the global population structure of C. tropicalis is still poorly understood. Moreover, its clinical impact in Italy, Egypt and Cameroon appears to be relevant and should be carefully considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aude Ngueguim Dougue
- Antimicrobial & Biocontrol Agents Unit (AmBcAU), Laboratory for Phytobiochemistry and Medicinal Plants Studies, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of Yaoundé IYaoundéCameroon
| | - Mohammed A. El‐Kholy
- Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Division of Clinical and Biological Sciences, College of PharmacyArab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT)AlexandriaEgypt
| | - Letterio Giuffrè
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental SciencesUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Grazia Galeano
- Department of Veterinary SciencesUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Francesco D′Aleo
- Laboratory of Clinical MicrobiologyGreat Metropolitan Hospital of Reggio CalabriaReggio CalabriaItaly
| | - Cyrille Levis Kountchou
- Research Unit of Laboratory of Microbiology and Antimicrobial Substances (RUMAS), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of DschangDschangCameroon,Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plant StudiesCenter for Medical Research in Health and Priority PathologiesYaoundéCameroon
| | - Claude Nangwat
- Research Unit of Laboratory of Microbiology and Antimicrobial Substances (RUMAS), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of DschangDschangCameroon
| | - Jean Paul Dzoyem
- Research Unit of Laboratory of Microbiology and Antimicrobial Substances (RUMAS), Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of DschangDschangCameroon
| | - Domenico Giosa
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental SciencesUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Ida Pernice
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental SciencesUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Sherine M. Shawky
- Department of Microbiology, Medical Research InstituteUniversity of AlexandriaAlexandriaEgypt
| | - Thierry Kammalac Ngouana
- Antimicrobial & Biocontrol Agents Unit (AmBcAU), Laboratory for Phytobiochemistry and Medicinal Plants Studies, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of Yaoundé IYaoundéCameroon,Biomedical Research UnitLaboratoire SionYaoundéCameroon
| | - Fabrice Fekam Boyom
- Antimicrobial & Biocontrol Agents Unit (AmBcAU), Laboratory for Phytobiochemistry and Medicinal Plants Studies, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of Yaoundé IYaoundéCameroon
| | - Orazio Romeo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental SciencesUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
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10
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Ahmed SA, El-Sobky TA, de Hoog S, Zaki SM, Taha M. A scoping review of mycetoma profile in Egypt: revisiting the global endemicity map. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2022; 117:1-11. [PMID: 36084235 PMCID: PMC9808524 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trac085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycetoma is a chronic infectious disease endemic in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), India and parts of South and North America. The epidemiologic profile of the disease in Egypt, which neighbours SSA, has not been explored previously. Therefore we conducted a scoping review of the literature on mycetoma in Egypt. We searched the literature comprehensively on MEDLINE and Google Scholar using free-text words and Medical Subject Headings and terms. Both published and non-peer-reviewed (grey literature) articles were included. The initial search identified 133 reports. Of these, only eight were found to be relevant and were included in the study. The total number of mycetoma patients was 59, reported between 1949 and 2015. There was a predilection for eumycetoma (44 of 59) patients (75%), while actinomycetoma constituted 15 patients (25%). Six patients were female, 28 were male and 25 were unreported. Children and adolescents constituted 3 of 59 (5%), 52 (88%) were adults and age was not provided for 4 patients. Only four patients (7%) were non-autochthonous. The incidence of mycetoma in Egypt is higher than previously reported. Egypt is probably a low-endemic country. An accurate estimate of the prevalence and epidemiology of mycetoma necessitates further research collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sybren de Hoog
- Center of Expertise in Mycology Radboudumc, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands,Foundation Atlas of Clinical Fungi, Hilversum, The Netherlands
| | - Sherif M Zaki
- Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo Governorate 4392001, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Taha
- Department of Microbiology, Zagazig University, Ash Sharqia Governorate 7120001, Zagazig, Egypt
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11
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Epidemiology of Candidemia in Kuwait: A Nationwide, Population-Based Study. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080673. [PMID: 34436212 PMCID: PMC8399751 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Candida species cause a majority of invasive fungal infections. In this article, we describe the nationwide epidemiology of candidemia in Kuwait in 2018. Yeast bloodstream isolates submitted from all major hospitals and identified by phenotypic MALDI-TOF MS and/or by molecular methods were studied. Susceptibility testing was performed by Etest. Out of 313 bloodstream yeasts, 239 Candida spp. isolates (excluding duplicate isolates) were obtained during 234 candidemic episodes among 223 patients. Mixed-species candidemia and re-infection occurred in 5 and 11 patients, respectively. C. albicans (n = 74), C. parapsilosis (n = 54), C. tropicalis (n = 35), C. auris (n = 33), C. glabrata (n = 32), other Candida spp. (n = 11), and other yeasts (n = 9) caused fungemia. Nearly 50% of patients were in intensive care units. Candida spp. isolates (except C. glabrata) were susceptible to caspofungin and 27% of C. auris were amphotericin B-resistant. Resistance to fluconazole was 100% in C. auris, 17% in C. parapsilosis, 12% in C. glabrata, and 1% in C. albicans. Mortality was 47% for other Candida/yeast infections. Nationwide candidemia incidence in 2018 was 5.29 cases/100,000 inhabitants. Changes in species spectrum, increasing fluconazole resistance in C. parapsilosis, and the emergence of C. auris as a major pathogen in Kuwait are noteworthy findings. The data could be of help in informing decisions regarding planning, in the allocation of resources, and in antimicrobial stewardship.
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12
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Osman M, Bidon B, Abboud C, Zakaria A, Hamze B, Achcar ME, Mallat H, Dannaoui E, Dabboussi F, Papon N, Bouchara JP, Hamze M. Species distribution and antifungal susceptibility of Aspergillus clinical isolates in Lebanon. Future Microbiol 2021; 16:13-26. [PMID: 33438473 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2020-0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: We sought to provide first insights into the epidemiology and antifungal susceptibility patterns of the aspergilli in Lebanon. Materials & methods: After species identification, antifungal susceptibility was investigated according to EUCAST recommendations. CYP51A gene was sequenced in resistant isolates and its expression level was evaluated by Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Results: Among the 73 Aspergillus isolates studied (mostly from ears), the predominant species was Aspergillus niger (54.8%). The overall drug resistance was highest for amphotericin B (38.4%), followed by itraconazole (31.5%), posaconazole (30.1%) and voriconazole (23.3%). In addition, CYP51A gene mutations were not the major cause of azole resistance among these isolates. Conclusion: Our findings indicate the paramount need for an integral One Health strategy and a national reference center for invasive mycoses and antifungals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan Osman
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Baptiste Bidon
- Groupe d'Etude des Interactions Hôte-Pathogène, GEIHP, EA3142, SFR 4208 ICAT, Univ Angers, Univ Brest, Angers, France
| | - Cynthia Abboud
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon.,Groupe d'Etude des Interactions Hôte-Pathogène, GEIHP, EA3142, SFR 4208 ICAT, Univ Angers, Univ Brest, Angers, France
| | - Ayate Zakaria
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Baraa Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | | | - Hassan Mallat
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Eric Dannaoui
- Paris-Descartes University, Faculty of Medicine, APHP, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Parasitology-Mycology Unit, Microbiology department, Paris, France
| | - Fouad Dabboussi
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
| | - Nicolas Papon
- Groupe d'Etude des Interactions Hôte-Pathogène, GEIHP, EA3142, SFR 4208 ICAT, Univ Angers, Univ Brest, Angers, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Bouchara
- Groupe d'Etude des Interactions Hôte-Pathogène, GEIHP, EA3142, SFR 4208 ICAT, Univ Angers, Univ Brest, Angers, France
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Science & Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli, Lebanon
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13
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Oladele R, Otu AA, Olubamwo O, Makanjuola OB, Ochang EA, Ejembi J, Irurhe N, Ajanaku I, Ekundayo HA, Olayinka A, Atoyebi O, Denning D. Evaluation of knowledge and awareness of invasive fungal infections amongst resident doctors in Nigeria. Pan Afr Med J 2020; 36:297. [PMID: 33117491 PMCID: PMC7572690 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2020.36.297.23279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction it has been estimated that about 11.8% of the Nigerians suffer serious fungal infections annually. A high index of suspicion with early diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy significantly impacts on the morbidity and mortality of invasive fungal infections (IFIs). Methods we conducted a cross-sectional multicentre survey across 7 tertiary hospitals in 5 geopolitical zones of Nigeria between June 2013 and March 2015. Knowledge, awareness and practice of Nigerian resident doctors about the diagnosis and management of invasive fungal infections were evaluated using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire. Assessment was categorized as poor, fair and good. Results 834(79.7%) of the 1046 participants had some knowledge of IFIs, 338(32.3%) from undergraduate medical training and 191(18.3%) during post-graduate (specialty) residency training. Number of years spent in clinical practice was positively related to knowledge of management of IFIs, which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Only 2 (0.002%) out of the 1046 respondents had a good level of awareness of IFIs. Only 4(0.4%) of respondents had seen > 10 cases of IFIs; while 10(1%) had seen between 5-10 cases, 180(17.2%) less than 5 cases and the rest had never seen or managed any cases of IFIs. There were statistically significant differences in knowledge about IFIs among the various cadres of doctors (p < 0.001) as level of knowledge increased with rank/seniority. Conclusion knowledge gaps exist that could militate against optimal management of IFIs in Nigeria. Targeted continuing medical education (CME) programmes and a revision of the postgraduate medical education curriculum is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Oladele
- College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Akaninyene Asuquo Otu
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Olubunmi Olubamwo
- Department of Public Health, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Ernest Afu Ochang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Joan Ejembi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Oluwole Atoyebi
- National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - David Denning
- The National Aspergillosis Centre, University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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