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Gonçalves SM, Pereira I, Feys S, Cunha C, Chamilos G, Hoenigl M, Wauters J, van de Veerdonk FL, Carvalho A. Integrating genetic and immune factors to uncover pathogenetic mechanisms of viral-associated pulmonary aspergillosis. mBio 2024; 15:e0198223. [PMID: 38651925 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01982-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is a severe fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised patients. Individuals with severe viral infections have recently been identified as vulnerable to developing invasive fungal infections. Both influenza-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (IAPA) and COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) are linked to high mortality rates, emphasizing the urgent need for an improved understanding of disease pathogenesis to unveil new molecular targets with diagnostic and therapeutic potential. The recent establishment of animal models replicating the co-infection context has offered crucial insights into the mechanisms that underlie susceptibility to disease. However, the development and progression of human viral-fungal co-infections exhibit a significant degree of interindividual variability, even among patients with similar clinical conditions. This observation implies a significant role for host genetics, but information regarding the genetic basis for viral-fungal co-infections is currently limited. In this review, we discuss how genetic factors known to affect either antiviral or antifungal immunity could potentially reveal pathogenetic mechanisms that predispose to IAPA or CAPA and influence the overall disease course. These insights are anticipated to foster further research in both pre-clinical models and human patients, aiming to elucidate the complex pathophysiology of viral-associated pulmonary aspergillosis and contributing to the identification of new diagnostic and therapeutic targets to improve the management of these co-infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel M Gonçalves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
| | - Inês Pereira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
| | - Simon Feys
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
| | - Georgios Chamilos
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Joost Wauters
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Department of General Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães/Braga, Portugal
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2
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Gerber V, Boehn L, Sabou M, Studer A, Ursenbach A, Hansmann Y, Herbrecht R, Lefebvre N, Letscher-Bru V, Danion F. Is there an interest in systematic serum screening for aspergillosis in COVID-19 patients in a medical ward? Infect Dis Now 2024; 54:104918. [PMID: 38636842 DOI: 10.1016/j.idnow.2024.104918] [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: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE We evaluated the interest of systematic screening of serum fungal markers in patients hospitalized in a medical ward. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed all patients hospitalized in our infectious disease department from October 1st to October 31st, 2020 for COVID-19 without prior ICU admission, and for whom systematic screening of serum fungal markers was performed. RESULTS Thirty patients were included. The majority of patients received corticosteroids (96.7%). The galactomannan antigen assay was positive for 1/30 patients at D0, and 0/24, 0/16, 0/13 and 0/2 at D4, D7, D10 and D14 respectively. 1,3-ß-D-glucan was positive for 0/30, 1/24, 1/12, 0/12, 0/2 at D0, D4, D7, D10 and D14 respectively. No Aspergillus fumigatus PCR was positive. No cases of aspergillosis were retained. CONCLUSION Our study does not support the interest of systematic screening of fungal markers in immunocompetent patients with COVID-19 in a conventional unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Gerber
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Louis Boehn
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marcela Sabou
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et de Mycologie Médicale, Plateau Technique de Microbiologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Antoine Studer
- Service de Médecine Intensive-Réanimation, Hôpitaux Universitaires, Strasbourg, France
| | - Axel Ursenbach
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Service du Trait d'Union, Hôpitaux Universitaires, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Yves Hansmann
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Raoul Herbrecht
- Department of hematology, Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg Europe (ICANS), Strasbourg, France
| | - Nicolas Lefebvre
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valérie Letscher-Bru
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et de Mycologie Médicale, Plateau Technique de Microbiologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - François Danion
- Service de maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; Inserm UMR_S 1109, Laboratoire d'ImmunoRhumatologie Moléculaire, Strasbourg, France
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3
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Machado M, Fortún J, Muñoz P. Invasive aspergillosis: A comprehensive review. Med Clin (Barc) 2024:S0025-7753(24)00193-3. [PMID: 38714471 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2024.01.045] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a severe fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species, particularly Aspergillus fumigatus, although new species, sometimes resistant to antifungals are becoming more common. IA predominantly affects immunocompromised patients, such as those with haematological malignancies, solid organ transplant recipients, and critically ill patients. However, new at-risk populations have emerged in recent years, such as IA associated with severe viral infections. Advanced diagnostic methods are crucial, especially considering the rising concern of antifungal resistance. Early detection is critical for successful treatment, typically involving antifungal medications like voriconazole or amphotericin B, but new antifungals are arriving to complete the therapeutic strategies. Despite advancements, mortality rates remain high, underscoring the importance of timely interventions and ongoing research. Healthcare providers should maintain a high index of suspicion, especially in immunocompromised patients and other new risk factors that are arising, to promptly diagnose and manage invasive aspergillosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Machado
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Universidad de Alcalá, Escuela de Doctorado, Alcalá de Henares, Spain.
| | - Jesús Fortún
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain; Universidad de Alcalá, Escuela de Doctorado, Alcalá de Henares, Spain; IRYCIS: Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Muñoz
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain; CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias - CIBERES (CB06/06/0058), Madrid, Spain; Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain
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4
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van Grootveld R, van Paassen J, Claas ECJ, Heerdink L, Kuijper EJ, de Boer MGJ, van der Beek MT. Prospective and systematic screening for invasive aspergillosis in the ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic, a proof of principle for future pandemics. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myae028. [PMID: 38544330 PMCID: PMC11095538 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myae028] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The diagnostic performance of a prospective, systematic screening strategy for COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) during the COVID-19 pandemic was investigated. Patients with COVID-19 admitted to the ICU were screened for CAPA twice weekly by collection of tracheal aspirate (TA) for Aspergillus culture and PCR. Subsequently, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) sampling was performed in patients with positive screening results and clinical suspicion of infection. Patient data were collected from April 2020-February 2022. Patients were classified according to 2020 ECMM/ISHAM consensus criteria. In total, 126/370 (34%) patients were positive in screening and CAPA frequency was 52/370 (14%) (including 13 patients negative in screening). CAPA was confirmed in 32/43 (74%) screening positive patients who underwent BAL sampling. ICU mortality was 62% in patients with positive screening and confirmed CAPA, and 31% in CAPA cases who were screening negative. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value (PPV & NPV) of screening for CAPA were 0.71, 0.73, 0.27, and 0.95, respectively. The PPV was higher if screening was culture positive compared to PCR positive only, 0.42 and 0.12 respectively. CAPA was confirmed in 74% of screening positive patients, and culture of TA had a better diagnostic performance than PCR. Positive screening along with clinical manifestations appeared to be a good indication for BAL sampling since diagnosis of CAPA was confirmed in most of these patients. Prospective, systematic screening allowed to quickly gain insight into the epidemiology of fungal superinfections during the pandemic and could be applicable for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca van Grootveld
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Dordrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Judith van Paassen
- Department of Intensive Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Eric C J Claas
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Heerdink
- Directorate of Education (DOO), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ed J Kuijper
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mark G J de Boer
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martha T van der Beek
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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5
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Heylen J, Vanbiervliet Y, Maertens J, Rijnders B, Wauters J. Acute Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis: Clinical Presentation and Treatment. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2024; 45:69-87. [PMID: 38211628 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1777769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Among all clinical manifestations of pulmonary aspergillosis, invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is the most acute presentation. IPA is caused by Aspergillus hyphae invading the pulmonary tissue, causing either tracheobronchitis and/or bronchopneumonia. The degree of fungal invasion into the respiratory tissue can be seen as a spectrum, going from colonization to deep tissue penetration with angio-invasion, and largely depends on the host's immune status. Patients with prolonged, severe neutropenia and patients with graft-versus-host disease are at particularly high risk. However, IPA also occurs in other groups of immunocompromised and nonimmunocompromised patients, like solid organ transplant recipients or critically ill patients with severe viral disease. While a diagnosis of proven IPA is challenging and often warranted by safety and feasibility, physicians must rely on a combination of clinical, radiological, and mycological features to assess the likelihood for the presence of IPA. Triazoles are the first-choice regimen, and the choice of the drug should be made on an individual basis. Adjunctive therapy such as immunomodulatory treatment should also be taken into account. Despite an improving and evolving diagnostic and therapeutic armamentarium, the burden and mortality of IPA still remains high. This review aims to give a comprehensive and didactic overview of the current knowledge and best practices regarding the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of acute IPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jannes Heylen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yuri Vanbiervliet
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Haematology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Maertens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Haematology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart Rijnders
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Wauters
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Frost J, Gornicec M, Reisinger AC, Eller P, Hoenigl M, Prattes J. COVID-19 associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit: Impact of Antifungal Prophylaxis. Mycopathologia 2024; 189:3. [PMID: 38217742 PMCID: PMC10787678 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-023-00809-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Early after the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-pandemic, it was observed that critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) were susceptible to developing secondary fungal infections, particularly COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). Here we report our local experience on the impact of mold active antifungal prophylaxis on CAPA occurrence in critically ill COVID-19 patients. This is a monocentric, prospective cohort study including all consecutive patients with COVID-19 associated acute respiratory failure who were admitted to our local medical ICU. Based on the treating physician's discretion, patients may have received antifungal prophylaxis or not. All patients were retrospectively characterized as having CAPA according to the 2020 ECMM/ISHAM consensus definitions. Seventy-seven patients were admitted to our medical ICU during April 2020 and May 2021 and included in the study. The majority of patients received invasive-mechanical ventilation (61%). Fifty-three patients (68.8%) received posaconazole prophylaxis. Six cases of probable CAPA were diagnosed within clinical routine management. All six cases were diagnosed in the non-prophylaxis group. The incidence of CAPA in the overall study cohort was 0.57 events per 100 ICU days and 2.20 events per 100 ICU days in the non-prophylaxis group. No difference of cumulative 84-days survival could be observed between the two groups (p = 0.115). In this monocentric cohort, application of posaconazole prophylaxis in patients with COVID-19 associated respiratory failure did significantly reduce the rate of CAPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Frost
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, ECMM Excellence Center, Graz, Austria
| | - Maximilian Gornicec
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, ECMM Excellence Center, Graz, Austria
| | - Alexander C Reisinger
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Philipp Eller
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, ECMM Excellence Center, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Juergen Prattes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, ECMM Excellence Center, Graz, Austria.
- BioTechMed Graz, Graz, Austria.
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7
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Hurt W, Youngs J, Ball J, Edgeworth J, Hopkins P, Jenkins DR, Leaver S, Mazzella A, Molloy SF, Schelenz S, Wise MP, White PL, Yusuff H, Wyncoll D, Bicanic T. COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis in mechanically ventilated patients: a prospective, multicentre UK study. Thorax 2023; 79:75-82. [PMID: 37657925 PMCID: PMC10804023 DOI: 10.1136/thorax-2023-220002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is a complication of severe COVID-19, with regional variation in reported incidence and mortality. We describe the incidence, risk factors and mortality associated with COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) in a prospective, multicentre UK cohort. METHODS From March 2020 to March 2021, 266 mechanically ventilated adults with COVID-19 were enrolled across 5 UK hospital intensive care units (ICUs). CAPA was defined using European Confederation for Medical Mycology and the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology criteria and fungal diagnostics performed on respiratory and serum samples. RESULTS Twenty-nine of 266 patients (10.9%) had probable CAPA, 14 (5.2%) possible CAPA and none proven CAPA. Probable CAPA was diagnosed a median of 9 (IQR 7-16) days after ICU admission. Factors associated with probable CAPA after multivariable logistic regression were cumulative steroid dose given within 28 days prior to ICU admission (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.16; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.43 per 100 mg prednisolone-equivalent), receipt of an interleukin (IL)-6 inhibitor (aOR 2.79; 95% CI 1.22 to 6.48) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (aOR 4.78; 95% CI 1.13 to 18.13). Mortality in patients with probable CAPA was 55%, vs 46% in those without. After adjustment for immortal time bias, CAPA was associated with an increased risk of 90-day mortality (HR 1.85; 95% CI 1.07 to 3.19); however, this association did not remain statistically significant after further adjustment for confounders (adjusted HR 1.57; 95% CI 0.88 to 2.80). There was no difference in mortality between patients with CAPA prescribed antifungals (9 of 17; 53%) and those who were not (7 of 12; 58%) (p=0.77). INTERPRETATION In this first prospective UK study, probable CAPA was associated with corticosteroid use, receipt of IL-6 inhibitors and pre-existing COPD. CAPA did not impact mortality following adjustment for prognostic variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Hurt
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Clinical Infection Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Jonathan Youngs
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Clinical Infection Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jonathan Ball
- Adult Critical Care, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jonathan Edgeworth
- Clinical Infection and Microbiology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Philip Hopkins
- Adult Critical Care, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - David R Jenkins
- Clinical Microbiology, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Susannah Leaver
- Adult Critical Care, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrea Mazzella
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Síle F Molloy
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Silke Schelenz
- Medical Microbiology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Matt P Wise
- Adult Critical Care, University of Wales Hospital, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Hakeem Yusuff
- Adult Critical Care, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Duncan Wyncoll
- Adult Critical Care, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tihana Bicanic
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
- Clinical Infection Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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8
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Simmons BC, Rhodes J, Rogers TR, Verweij PE, Abdolrasouli A, Schelenz S, Hemmings SJ, Talento AF, Griffin A, Mansfield M, Sheehan D, Bosch T, Fisher MC. Genomic Epidemiology Identifies Azole Resistance Due to TR 34/L98H in European Aspergillus fumigatus Causing COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1104. [PMID: 37998909 PMCID: PMC10672581 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus has been found to coinfect patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, leading to COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). The CAPA all-cause mortality rate is approximately 50% and may be complicated by azole resistance. Genomic epidemiology can help shed light on the genetics of A. fumigatus causing CAPA, including the prevalence of resistance-associated alleles. We present a population genomic analysis of 21 CAPA isolates from four European countries with these isolates compared against 240 non-CAPA A. fumigatus isolates from a wider population. Bioinformatic analysis and antifungal susceptibility testing were performed to quantify resistance and identify possible genetically encoded azole-resistant mechanisms. The phylogenetic analysis of the 21 CAPA isolates showed that they were representative of the wider A. fumigatus population with no obvious clustering. The prevalence of phenotypic azole resistance in CAPA was 14.3% (n = 3/21); all three CAPA isolates contained a known resistance-associated cyp51A polymorphism. The relatively high prevalence of azole resistance alleles that we document poses a probable threat to treatment success rates, warranting the enhanced surveillance of A. fumigatus genotypes in these patients. Furthermore, potential changes to antifungal first-line treatment guidelines may be needed to improve patient outcomes when CAPA is suspected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin C. Simmons
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
- UK Health Security Agency, London EP14 4PU, UK
| | - Johanna Rhodes
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Thomas R. Rogers
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - Paul E. Verweij
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
- Radboudumc-CWZ Center of Expertise for Mycology, Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Diagnostics and Laboratory Surveillance, National for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands;
| | - Alireza Abdolrasouli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London W2 1NY, UK;
- Department of Infectious Diseases, King’s College Hospital, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Silke Schelenz
- Infection Sciences, King’s College Hospital, London SE5 9RS, UK;
- School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Samuel J. Hemmings
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
| | - Alida Fe Talento
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
- Department of Microbiology, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, A92 VW28 Drogheda, Ireland
- Department of Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Auveen Griffin
- Department of Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Mary Mansfield
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - David Sheehan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - Thijs Bosch
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Diagnostics and Laboratory Surveillance, National for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands;
| | - Matthew C. Fisher
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
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Singh A, Kaur A, Chowdhary A. Fungal pathogens and COVID-19. Curr Opin Microbiol 2023; 75:102365. [PMID: 37625261 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102365] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the complications of secondary fungal infections that occurred globally in severe cases of coronavirus disease managed in the intensive care units. Furthermore, varied underlying host factors, such as preexisting immunosuppression, the use of immunomodulatory agents, and invasive procedures predisposing lung tissues to fungal colonization and proliferation, caused increased susceptibility to fungal infections in COVID-19 patient populations. These invasive fungal infections directly impact the overall length of hospitalization and mortality. The most commonly reported fungal infections in patients with COVID-19 include aspergillosis, invasive candidiasis, and mucormycosis. An overall worldwide increase in the prevalence of candidiasis and aspergillosis was observed in COVID-19 patients , whereas outbreaks of mucormycosis were mainly recorded from India. Diagnostic challenges and limited antifungal treatment options make secondary fungal infections among COVID-19 patients more burdensome, which results in improper management and increased mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Singh
- Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India; National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Amtoj Kaur
- Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Anuradha Chowdhary
- Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India; National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India.
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10
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Vanderbeke L, Jacobs C, Feys S, Reséndiz-Sharpe A, Debaveye Y, Hermans G, Humblet-Baron S, Lagrou K, Meersseman P, Peetermans M, Seldeslachts L, Vanstapel A, Vande Velde G, Van Wijngaerden E, Wilmer A, Verbeken E, De Hertogh G, Wauters J. A Pathology-based Case Series of Influenza- and COVID-19-associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis: The Proof Is in the Tissue. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2023; 208:301-311. [PMID: 37311243 PMCID: PMC10395719 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202208-1570oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis has emerged as a frequent coinfection in severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19), similarly to influenza, yet the clinical invasiveness is more debated. Objectives: We investigated the invasive nature of pulmonary aspergillosis in histology specimens of influenza and COVID-19 ICU fatalities in a tertiary care center. Methods: In this monocentric, descriptive, retrospective case series, we included adult ICU patients with PCR-proven influenza/COVID-19 respiratory failure who underwent postmortem examination and/or tracheobronchial biopsy during ICU admission from September 2009 until June 2021. Diagnosis of probable/proven viral-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (VAPA) was made based on the Intensive Care Medicine influenza-associated pulmonary aspergillosis and the European Confederation of Medical Mycology (ECMM) and the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology (ISHAM) COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis consensus criteria. All respiratory tissues were independently reviewed by two experienced pathologists. Measurements and Main Results: In the 44 patients of the autopsy-verified cohort, 6 proven influenza-associated and 6 proven COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis diagnoses were identified. Fungal disease was identified as a missed diagnosis upon autopsy in 8% of proven cases (n = 1/12), yet it was most frequently found as confirmation of a probable antemortem diagnosis (n = 11/21, 52%) despite receiving antifungal treatment. Bronchoalveolar lavage galactomannan testing showed the highest sensitivity for VAPA diagnosis. Among both viral entities, an impeded fungal growth was the predominant histologic pattern of pulmonary aspergillosis. Fungal tracheobronchitis was histologically indistinguishable in influenza (n = 3) and COVID-19 (n = 3) cases, yet macroscopically more extensive at bronchoscopy in influenza setting. Conclusions: A proven invasive pulmonary aspergillosis diagnosis was found regularly and with a similar histological pattern in influenza and in COVID-19 ICU case fatalities. Our findings highlight an important need for VAPA awareness, with an emphasis on mycological bronchoscopic work-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lore Vanderbeke
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Medical Intensive Care Unit
| | | | - Simon Feys
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Medical Intensive Care Unit
| | | | - Yves Debaveye
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; and
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine
| | - Greet Hermans
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; and
- Medical Intensive Care Unit
| | | | - Katrien Lagrou
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Department of Laboratory Medicine
- National Reference Center for Mycosis
| | - Philippe Meersseman
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Medical Intensive Care Unit
| | - Marijke Peetermans
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Medical Intensive Care Unit
| | | | | | | | - Eric Van Wijngaerden
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alexander Wilmer
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Medical Intensive Care Unit
| | - Erik Verbeken
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, and
- Department of Pathology, and
| | - Gert De Hertogh
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, and
- Department of Pathology, and
| | - Joost Wauters
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Transplantation
- Medical Intensive Care Unit
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11
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Singh R, Malik P, Kumar M, Kumar R, Alam MS, Mukherjee TK. Secondary fungal infections in SARS-CoV-2 patients: pathological whereabouts, cautionary measures, and steadfast treatments. Pharmacol Rep 2023:10.1007/s43440-023-00506-z. [PMID: 37354313 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00506-z] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The earliest documented COVID-19 case caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus occurred in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Since then, several SARS-CoV-2 mutants have rapidly disseminated as exemplified by the community spread of the recent omicron variant. The disease already attained a pandemic status with ever-dwindling mortality even after two and half years of identification and considerable vaccination. Aspergillosis, candidiasis, cryptococcosis and mucormycosis are the prominent fungal infections experienced by the majority of SARS-CoV-2 high-risk patients. In its entirety, COVID-19's nexus with these fungal infections may worsen the intricacies in the already beleaguered high-risk patients, making this a topic of substantial clinical concern. Thus, thorough knowledge of the subject is necessary. This article focuses on the concomitant fungal infection(s) in COVID-19 patients, taking into account their underlying causes, the screening methods, manifested drug resistance, and long-term effects. The information and knowledge shared herein could be crucial for the management of critically ill, aged, and immunocompromised SARS-CoV-2 patients who have had secondary fungal infections (SFIs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, 133207, India
| | - Parth Malik
- School of Chemical Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, 133207, India
| | - Raman Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, 133207, India
| | - Md Shamshir Alam
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, PO Box 620, 130, Bosher-Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Tapan Kumar Mukherjee
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Sector-125, Noida, UP, India.
- Department of Biotechnology, Amity University, Major Arterial Road, Action Area II, Rajarhat, New Town, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700135, India.
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12
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Hoenigl M, Egger M, Price J, Krause R, Prattes J, White PL. Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing of Plasma for Diagnosis of COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis. J Clin Microbiol 2023; 61:e0185922. [PMID: 36809121 PMCID: PMC10035327 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01859-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Timely diagnosis remains an unmet need in non-neutropenic patients at risk for aspergillosis, including those with COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA), which in its early stages is characterized by tissue-invasive growth of the lungs with limited angioinvasion. Currently available mycological tests show limited sensitivity when testing blood specimens. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) to detect microbial cell-free DNA (mcfDNA) in plasma might overcome some of the limitations of conventional diagnostics. A two-center cohort study involving 114 COVID-19 intensive care unit patients evaluated the performance of plasma mcfDNA sequencing for the diagnosis of CAPA. Classification of CAPA was performed using the European Confederation for Medical Mycology (ECMM)/International Society for Human and Animal Mycoses (ISHAM) criteria. A total of 218 plasma samples were collected between April 2020 and June 2021 and tested for mcfDNA (Karius test). Only 6 patients were classified as probable CAPA, and 2 were classified as possible, while 106 patients did not fulfill CAPA criteria. The Karius test detected DNA of mold pathogens in 12 samples from 8 patients, including Aspergillus fumigatus in 10 samples from 6 patients. Mold pathogen DNA was detected in 5 of 6 (83% sensitivity) cases with probable CAPA (A. fumigatus in 8 samples from 4 patients and Rhizopus microsporus in 1 sample), while the test did not detect molds in 103 of 106 (97% specificity) cases without CAPA. The Karius test showed promising performance for diagnosis of CAPA when testing plasma, being highly specific. The test detected molds in all but one patient with probable CAPA, including cases where other mycological tests from blood resulted continuously negative, outlining the need for validation in larger studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Matthias Egger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Jessica Price
- Public Health Wales, Microbiology Cardiff, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Krause
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Juergen Prattes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- University Hospital of Cologne, Department 1 for Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Cologne, Germany
| | - P Lewis White
- Public Health Wales, Microbiology Cardiff, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Center for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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13
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Pavone P, Russello G, Salati G, Corsini R, Salsi P, Vizzini L, Lombardini C, Spaggiari L, Besutti G, Menozzi V, Spadoni A, Facciolongo N, Piro R, Carretto E, Massari M. Active screening of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis with serum beta-glucan and endotracheal aspirates galactomannan and fungal culture. Mycoses 2023; 66:219-225. [PMID: 36380646 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13545] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since February 2021 active screening of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) has been implemented in our institution. OBJECTIVES To evaluate CAPA incidence in our centre and evaluate performance of our screening protocol. METHODS We screened once per week, collecting endotracheal aspirates for fungal culture and galactomannan (GM) and serum for 1,3-ß-D-glucan (BG). In case of positivity (GM more than 4.5, platelia assay, and/or BG >7 pg/ml, wako and/or positive fungal culture), second-level investigations were performed to pursue CAPA diagnosis according to ECMM/ISHAM criteria: bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fungal culture and GM, chest computed tomography (CT), serum GM. RESULTS A total of 102 patients were screened (median age 64 years, range 39-79; 28 (27.4%) females). Twenty-two patients were diagnosed with CAPA (21%). 12 patients were positive for serum BG, 17 patients were positive for endotracheal aspirates GM and 27 patients were positive for endotracheal aspirates fungal culture. Thirty-two BALs were performed, and 26 patients underwent CT chest. Following the second level investigations 61% of the patients with positive screening tests were diagnosed with CAPA. Serum BG above 20 pg/ml or positive serum GM were always associated with typical CT chest signs of aspergillosis. Compared with 1 single positive test, having 2 positive screening test was significantly more associated with CAPA diagnosis (p = .0004). CONCLUSIONS Active CAPA screening with serum 1,3-ß-D-glucan and endotracheal aspirates galactomannan and fungal cultures and consequent second level investigations led to high number of CAPA diagnosis. Combining more positive fungal biomarkers was more predictive of CAPA diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pavone
- Infectious Disease, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Russello
- Microbiology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Salati
- Intensive Care, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Romina Corsini
- Infectious Disease, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Salsi
- Intensive Care, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Loredana Vizzini
- Microbiology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Cristina Lombardini
- Intensive Care, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Lucia Spaggiari
- Radiology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giulia Besutti
- Radiology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Valentina Menozzi
- Infectious Disease, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Anna Spadoni
- Infectious Disease, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Nicola Facciolongo
- Pulmonology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Roberto Piro
- Pulmonology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Edoardo Carretto
- Microbiology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Marco Massari
- Infectious Disease, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale - IRCCS Tecnologie Avanzate e Modelli Assistenziali in Oncologia di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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14
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van Grootveld R, van der Beek MT, Janssen NAF, Ergün M, van Dijk K, Bethlehem C, Stads S, van Paassen J, Heunks LMA, Bouman CSC, Reijers MHE, Brüggeman RJ, van de Veerdonk FL, van Bree SHW, van den Berg CHSB, Kuindersma M, Wauters J, Beishuizen A, Verweij PE, Schouten JA. Incidence, risk factors and pre-emptive screening for COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis in an era of immunomodulant therapy. J Crit Care 2023; 76:154272. [PMID: 36801598 PMCID: PMC9934852 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2023.154272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in ICU patients. We investigated the incidence of, risk factors for and potential benefit of a pre-emptive screening strategy for CAPA in ICUs in the Netherlands/Belgium during immunosuppressive COVID-19 treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective, observational, multicentre study was performed from September 2020-April 2021 including patients admitted to the ICU who had undergone diagnostics for CAPA. Patients were classified based on 2020 ECMM/ISHAM consensus criteria. RESULTS CAPA was diagnosed in 295/1977 (14.9%) patients. Corticosteroids were administered to 97.1% of patients and interleukin-6 inhibitors (anti-IL-6) to 23.5%. EORTC/MSGERC host factors or treatment with anti-IL-6 with or without corticosteroids were not risk factors for CAPA. Ninety-day mortality was 65.3% (145/222) in patients with CAPA compared to 53.7% (176/328) without CAPA (p = 0.008). Median time from ICU admission to CAPA diagnosis was 12 days. Pre-emptive screening for CAPA was not associated with earlier diagnosis or reduced mortality compared to a reactive diagnostic strategy. CONCLUSIONS CAPA is an indicator of a protracted course of a COVID-19 infection. No benefit of pre-emptive screening was observed, but prospective studies comparing pre-defined strategies would be required to confirm this observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca van Grootveld
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Nico A F Janssen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom; University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mehmet Ergün
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Karin van Dijk
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Leo M A Heunks
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul E Verweij
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Medical Center Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands; Ikazia, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Gelderse Vallei Hospital, Ede, the Netherlands; University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; Gelre Hospitals, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands; University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Medical Spectrum Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
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15
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A Multiplex PCR and DNA-Sequencing Workflow on Serum for the Diagnosis and Species Identification for Invasive Aspergillosis and Mucormycosis. J Clin Microbiol 2023; 61:e0140922. [PMID: 36533925 PMCID: PMC9879116 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01409-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been significant increase in the use of molecular tools for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) and mucormycosis. However, their range of detection may be too limited as species diversity and coinfections are increasing. Here, we aimed to evaluate a molecular workflow based on a new multiplex PCR assay detecting the whole Aspergillus genus and the Mucorales order followed by a species-specific PCR or a DNA-sequencing approach for IA and/or mucormycosis diagnosis and species identification on serum. Performances of the MycoGENIE Aspergillus spp./Mucorales spp. duplex PCR kit were analyzed on a broad range of fungal strains and on sera from high-risk patients prospectively over a 12-month period. The kit allowed the detection of nine Aspergillus species and 10 Mucorales (eight genera) strains assessed. No cross-reactions between the two targets were observed. Sera from 744 patients were prospectively analyzed, including 35 IA, 16 mucormycosis, and four coinfections. Sensitivity varies from 85.7% (18/21) in probable/proven IA to 28.6% (4/14) in COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis. PCR-positive samples corresponded to 21 A. fumigatus, one A. flavus, and one A. nidulans infections. All the disseminated mucormycosis were positive in serum (14/14), including the four Aspergillus coinfections, but sensitivity fell to 33.3% (2/6) in localized forms. DNA sequencing allowed Mucorales identification in serum in 15 patients. Remarkably, the most frequent species identified was Rhizomucor pusillus (eight cases), whereas it is barely found in fungal culture. This molecular workflow is a promising approach to improve IA and mucormycosis diagnosis and epidemiology.
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16
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A Laboratory-Based Study on Multiple Biomarker Testing in the Diagnosis of COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CAPA): Real-Life Data. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 13:diagnostics13010114. [PMID: 36611406 PMCID: PMC9818294 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) raises concerns to contribute to an increased mortality. The incidence of CAPA varies widely within hospitals and countries, partly because of difficulties in obtaining a reliable diagnosis. (2) Methods: Here, we assessed Aspergillus culture-positive and culture-negative respiratory tract specimens via direct fungal microscopy (gold standard) and compared the results with galactomannan enzyme immunoassay (GM-EIA) and Aspergillus PCR. (3) Results: 241 respiratory samples from patients suffering from SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia were evaluated. Results showed both diagnostic tools, Aspergillus PCR and GM-EIA, to be positive or negative displaying a sensitivity of 0.90, a specificity of 0.77, a negative predictive value (NPV) of 0.95, and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.58 in Aspergillus sp. culture and microscopic-positive specimens. Non-bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples, obtained within a few days from the same patient, showed a high frequency of intermittent positive or negative GM-EIA or Aspergillus PCR results. Positivity of a single biomarker is insufficient for a proper diagnosis. A broad spectrum of Aspergillus species was detected. (4) Conclusions: Our study highlights the challenges of combined biomarker testing as part of diagnosing CAPA. From the results presented, we highly recommend the additional performance of direct microscopy in respiratory specimens to avoid overestimation of fungal infections by applying biomarkers.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) such as invasive aspergillosis continue to be associated with high morbidity and mortality while presenting significant diagnostic challenges. Siderophores are high-affinity Fe 3+ chelators produced by Aspergillus spp. and other fungi capable of causing IFD. Previously evaluated as a treatment target in mucormycosis, siderophores have recently emerged as new diagnostic targets for invasive aspergillosis and scedosporiosis. Here, we review the diagnostic potential of siderophores for diagnosing IFD, with a particular focus on invasive aspergillosis. RECENT FINDINGS The major secreted siderophore of A. fumigatus , triacetylfusarinine C (TAFC), has been successfully detected by mass spectrometry in serum, BALF and urine of patients with invasive aspergillosis, with promising sensitivities and specificities in single-centre studies. Intracellular uptake of siderophores has also been utilized for imaging, wherein fungal siderophores have been conjugated with the easy-to-produce radioactive isotope gallium-68 ( 68 Ga) to visualize infected body sites in PET. For the Scedosporium apiospermum complex, another siderophore N(α)-methyl coprogen B has been shown promising as a marker for airway colonization in early studies. SUMMARY Siderophores and particular TAFC have the potential to revolutionize diagnostic pathways for invasive aspergillosis and other mould infections. However, larger multicentre studies are needed to confirm these promising performances. Methods that allow rapid and cost-effective measurements in routine clinical practice need to be developed, particularly when TAFC is used as a biomarker in patient specimens.
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18
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Morton CO, Griffiths JS, Loeffler J, Orr S, White PL. Defective antifungal immunity in patients with COVID-19. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1080822. [PMID: 36531987 PMCID: PMC9750792 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1080822] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a huge strain on global healthcare and been a significant cause of increased morbidity and mortality, particularly in at-risk populations. This disease attacks the respiratory systems and causes significant immune dysregulation in affected patients creating a perfect opportunity for the development of invasive fungal disease (IFD). COVID-19 infection can instill a significant, poorly regulated pro-inflammatory response. Clinically induced immunosuppression or pro-inflammatory damage to mucosa facilitate the development of IFD and Aspergillus, Mucorales, and Candida infections have been regularly reported throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Corticosteroids and immune modulators are used in the treatment of COVID-19. Corticosteroid use is also a risk factor for IFD, but not the only reason for IFD in COVID -19 patients. Specific dysregulation of the immune system through functional exhaustion of Natural killer (NK) cells and T cells has been observed in COVID-19 through the expression of the exhaustion markers NK-G2A and PD-1. Reduced fungicidal activity of neutrophils from COVID-19 patients indicates that immune dysfunction/imbalance are important risk factors for IFD. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the at-risk population for IFD. Even if the incidence of IFD is relatively low, the size of this new at-risk population will result in a substantial increase in the overall, annual number of IFD cases. It is important to understand how and why certain patients with COVID-19 developed increased susceptibility to IFD, as this will improve our understanding of risk of IFD in the face of future pandemics but also in a clinical era of increased clinical immuno-suppression/modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James S. Griffiths
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, London, United Kingdom
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Selinda Orr
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Science, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - P. Lewis White
- Public Health Wales, Microbiology Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: P. Lewis White,
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19
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Casalini G, Giacomelli A, Galimberti L, Colombo R, Ballone E, Pozza G, Zacheo M, Galimberti M, Oreni L, Carsana L, Longo M, Gismondo MR, Tonello C, Nebuloni M, Antinori S. Challenges in Diagnosing COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Critically Ill Patients: The Relationship between Case Definitions and Autoptic Data. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8090894. [PMID: 36135619 PMCID: PMC9504285 DOI: 10.3390/jof8090894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Critically ill COVID-19 patients can develop invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). Considering the weaknesses of diagnostic tests/case definitions, as well as the results from autoptic studies, there is a debate on the real burden of aspergillosis in COVID-19 patients. We performed a retrospective observational study on mechanically ventilated critically ill COVID-19 patients in an intensive care unit (ICU). The primary objective was to determine the burden of CAPA by comparing clinical diagnosis (through case definitions/diagnostic algorithms) with autopsy results. Twenty patients out of 168 (11.9%) developed probable CAPA. Seven (35%) were females, and the median age was 66 [IQR 59–72] years. Thirteen CAPA patients (65%) died and, for six, an autopsy was performed providing a proven diagnosis in four cases. Histopathology findings suggest a focal pattern, rather than invasive and diffuse fungal disease, in the context of prominent viral pneumonia. In a cohort of mechanically ventilated patients with probable CAPA, by performing a high rate of complete autopsies, invasive aspergillosis was not always proven. It is still not clear whether aspergillosis is the major driver of mortality in patients with CAPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Casalini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Giacomelli
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Galimberti
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Colombo
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Ballone
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pozza
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Martina Zacheo
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Miriam Galimberti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Letizia Oreni
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Carsana
- Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Longo
- Clinical Microbiology, Virology and Bioemergency Diagnostics, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Rita Gismondo
- Clinical Microbiology, Virology and Bioemergency Diagnostics, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Tonello
- Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Nebuloni
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy
- Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Spinello Antinori
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy
- III Division of Infectious Diseases, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Luigi Sacco Hospital, 20157 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-025-031-9765; Fax: +39-025-031-9758
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20
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Ghazanfari M, Yazdani Charati J, Davoodi L, Arastehfar A, Moazeni M, Abastabar M, Haghani I, Mayahi S, Hoenigl M, Pan W, Hedayati MT. Comparative analysis of Galactomannan Lateral Flow Assay, Galactomannan Enzyme Immunoassay and BAL culture for Diagnosis of COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis. Mycoses 2022; 65:960-968. [PMID: 35979737 PMCID: PMC9538082 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Galactomannan Enzyme Immunoassay (GM-EIA) is proved to be a cornerstone in the diagnosis of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA), its use is limited in middle and low-income countries, where the application of simple and rapid test, including Galactomannan Lateral Flow Assay (GM-LFA), is highly appreciated. Despite such merits, limited studies directly compared GM-LFA to GM-EIA. Herein we compared the diagnostic features of GM-LFA, GM-EIA, and BAL culture for CAPA diagnosis in Iran, a developing country. MATERIALS/METHODS Diagnostic performance of GM-LFA and GM-EIA in BAL (GM indexes ≥ 1) and serum (GM indexes > 0.5), i.e., sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) and areas under the curve (AUC), were evaluated using BAL (n=105) and serum (n=101) samples from mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients in intensive care units. Patients were classified based on the presence of host factors, radiological findings, and mycological evidences according to 2020 ECMM/ISHAM consensus criteria for CAPA diagnosis. RESULTS The Aspergillus GM-LFA for serum and BAL samples showed a sensitivity of 56.3% and 60.6%, specificity of 94.2% and 88.9%, PPV of 81.8% and 71.4%, NPV of 82.3% and 83.1%, when compared to BAL culture, respectively. GM-EIA showed sensitivities of 46.9% and 54.5%, specificities of 100% and 91.7%, PPVs of 100% and 75%, NPVs of 80.2% and 81.5% for serum and BAL samples, respectively. CONCLUSION Our study found GM-LFA as a reliable simple and rapid diagnostic tool, which could circumvent the shortcomings of culture and GM-EIA and be pivotal in timely initiation of antifungal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Ghazanfari
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Jamshid Yazdani Charati
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Lotfollah Davoodi
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center/ Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amir Arastehfar
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Maryam Moazeni
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahdi Abastabar
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Iman Haghani
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Sabah Mayahi
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Clinical and Translational Fungal-Working Group, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Austria.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Weihua Pan
- Medical Mycology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mohammad T Hedayati
- Invasive Fungi Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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21
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Atypical Presentation of Aspergillus niger Infection in the Oral Cavity as a Prediction of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in a Patient with COVID-19: Case Report and Literature Review. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081630. [PMID: 36014048 PMCID: PMC9413179 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coinfections between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other respiratory pathogens such as Aspergillus have become challenging, as well as being associated with high morbidity and mortality in patients with COVID-19. Aspergillus niger is a common environmental mold. Before the emergence of COVID-19, it was considered a very rare cause of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), occurring mainly in immunocompromised patients. The aim of this study was to describe a very rare case of IPA caused by A. niger found in the oral cavity of a mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patient. A. niger detected in the gingival pocket was diagnosed earlier than in the bronchial lavage, and without treatment, passed into the lungs of the patient, causing serious complications. The swab from the oral cavity of mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients can be a predictor of the subsequent severity of inflammatory lesions and the development of suspected IPA.
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22
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Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated invasive fungal infections are an important complication in a substantial number of critically ill, hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Three groups of fungal pathogens cause co-infections in COVID-19: Aspergillus, Mucorales and Candida species, including Candida auris. Here we review the incidence of COVID-19-associated invasive fungal infections caused by these fungi in low-, middle- and high-income countries. By evaluating the epidemiology, clinical risk factors, predisposing features of the host environment and immunological mechanisms that underlie the pathogenesis of these co-infections, we set the scene for future research and development of clinical guidance. Hoenigl and colleagues review the epidemiology, immunology and clinical risk factors contributing to COVID-19-associated fungal infections.
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23
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Yoon YK. Call for evidence mapping in accordance with the changing features of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Korean J Intern Med 2022; 37:742-744. [PMID: 35811364 PMCID: PMC9271729 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2022.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Young Kyung Yoon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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24
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Utility of Serum 1,3-β-d-Glucan Testing for Diagnosis and Prognostication in COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0137322. [PMID: 35638833 PMCID: PMC9241918 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01373-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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25
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Nebulized Amphotericin B in Mechanically Ventilated COVID-19 Patients to Prevent Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Crit Care Explor 2022; 4:e0696. [PMID: 35558738 PMCID: PMC9088229 DOI: 10.1097/cce.0000000000000696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite high mortality rates of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) in the ICU, antifungal prophylaxis remains a subject of debate. We initiated nebulized conventional amphotericin B (c-AmB) as antifungal prophylaxis in COVID-19 patients on invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV).
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26
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Invasive Respiratory Fungal Infections in COVID-19 Critically Ill Patients. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8040415. [PMID: 35448646 PMCID: PMC9025868 DOI: 10.3390/jof8040415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) often develop respiratory fungal infections. The most frequent diseases are the COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA), COVID-19 associated pulmonary mucormycosis (CAPM) and the Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), the latter mostly found in patients with both COVID-19 and underlying HIV infection. Furthermore, co-infections due to less common mold pathogens have been also described. Respiratory fungal infections in critically ill patients are promoted by multiple risk factors, including epithelial damage caused by COVID-19 infection, mechanical ventilation and immunosuppression, mainly induced by corticosteroids and immunomodulators. In COVID-19 patients, a correct discrimination between fungal colonization and infection is challenging, further hampered by sampling difficulties and by the low reliability of diagnostic approaches, frequently needing an integration of clinical, radiological and microbiological features. Several antifungal drugs are currently available, but the development of new molecules with reduced toxicity, less drug-interactions and potentially active on difficult to treat strains, is highly warranted. Finally, the role of prophylaxis in certain COVID-19 populations is still controversial and must be further investigated.
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27
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Prevalence of COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis: Critical Review and Conclusions. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8040390. [PMID: 35448621 PMCID: PMC9027069 DOI: 10.3390/jof8040390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
First reports of cases and case series of COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) emerged during the first months of the pandemic. Prevalence rates varied widely due to the fact that CAPA was, and still remains, challenging to diagnose in patients with COVID-19-associated acute respiratory failure (ARF). The clinical picture and radiological findings of CAPA are unspecific and can resemble those of severe COVID-19. Hence, mycological evidence became a key component in establishing a diagnosis. However, blood tests lack sensitivity in early treatable phases of CAPA and once positive, mortality has been shown to exceed 80% despite systemic antifungal therapy. The primarily airway invasive growth in non-neutropenic patients and the late occurrence of angioinvasion in the course of disease may mainly account for these diagnostic obstacles. Testing of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is therefore crucial in the diagnostic process, but was rarely performed during the early phase of the pandemic, which potentially interfered with the accuracy of reported prevalence. Current guidelines recommend treatment of CAPA during its early airway invasive phase, which may result in some overtreatment (i.e., treatment in patients that may not develop angioinvasive infection) and adverse drug events, yet there is no viable alternative approach. Timely treatment of cases needs to be ensured for patients with mycological evidence of CAPA in the lower respiratory tract given the independent contribution of CAPA to devastating mortality rates of around 50% that have been shown in multiple studies. Here, we review the evolution of reported CAPA prevalence and the role of CAPA as an important opportunistic infection affecting COVID-19 patients in intensive care units (ICUs).
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28
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de Almeida JN, Mario Doi A, Watanabe MJL, Maraghello Maluf M, Calderon CL, Silva M, Pasternak J, Koga PCM, Santiago KAS, Aranha LFC, Szarf G, da Silva Teles GB, Zon Filippi R, Ribeiro Paes V, Baeta M, Hamerschlak N, Mangueira CLP, Dalla Valle Martino M. COVID-19 Associated Aspergillosis in a Brazilian Referral Centre: diagnosis, risk factors, and outcomes. Mycoses 2022; 65:449-457. [PMID: 35174567 PMCID: PMC9115249 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background COVID‐19 patients on mechanical ventilation are at risk to develop invasive aspergillosis. To provide additional data regarding this intriguing entity, we conducted a retrospective study describing risk factors, radiology and prognosis of this emerging entity in a Brazilian referral centre. Methods This retrospective study included intubated (≥18 years) patients with COVID‐19 admitted from April 2020 until July 2021 that had bronchoscopy to investigate pulmonary co‐infections. COVID‐19‐associated aspergillosis (CAPA) was defined according to the 2020 European Confederation of Medical Mycology/International Society of Human and Animal Mycosis consensus criteria. The performance of tracheal aspirate (TA) cultures to diagnose CAPA were described, as well as the radiological findings, risk factors and outcomes. Results Fourteen patients (14/87, 16%) had probable CAPA (0.9 cases per 100 ICU admissions). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of TA for the diagnosis of CAPA were 85.7%, 73.1%, 46.2% and 95% respectively. Most of the radiological findings of CAPA were classified as typical of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (64.3%). The overall mortality rate of probable CAPA was 71.4%. Age was the only independent risk factor for CAPA [p = .03; odds ratio (OR) 1.072]. CAPA patients under renal replacement therapy (RRT) may have a higher risk for a fatal outcome (p = .053, hazard ratio 8.047). Conclusions CAPA was a prevalent co‐infection in our cohort of patients under mechanical ventilation. Older patients had a higher risk to develop CAPA, and a poor prognosis may be associated with RRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- João N de Almeida
- Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil.,Special Laboratory of Mycology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Mario Doi
- Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Moacyr Silva
- Infection Control Unit, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jacyr Pasternak
- Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula Célia M Koga
- Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Luis Fernando C Aranha
- Clinical Department, Infectious Diseases Team, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gilberto Szarf
- Radiology Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Renée Zon Filippi
- Pathology Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vitor Ribeiro Paes
- Pathology Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina Baeta
- Oncohematology Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nelson Hamerschlak
- Oncohematology Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
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29
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A Clinical Case of COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CAPA), Illustrating the Challenges in Diagnosis (Despite Overwhelming Mycological Evidence). J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8010081. [PMID: 35050021 PMCID: PMC8777907 DOI: 10.3390/jof8010081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in large numbers of patients requiring critical care management. With the established association between severe respiratory virus infection and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (7.6% for COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA)), the pandemic places a significant number of patients at potential risk from secondary invasive fungal disease. We described a case of CAPA with substantial supporting mycological evidence, highlighting the need to employ strategic diagnostic algorithms and weighted definitions to improve the accuracy in diagnosing CAPA.
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