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Frequency and Distribution of Broncho-Alveolar Fungi in Lung Diseases in Martinique

Summary

This study examined fungal samples from the lungs of over 1500 patients in Martinique using a special procedure called broncho-alveolar lavage. Researchers found that fungi were very common in respiratory samples, with specific types of fungi appearing more frequently in different lung diseases. For example, certain mold-like fungi were more common in patients with bronchiectasis (damaged airways), while yeast-like fungi were more common in patients with pneumonia. The findings suggest that tropical climate and environmental conditions significantly influence which fungi colonize the lungs.

Background

The lung mycobiota and mycobiome have been linked to various pulmonary diseases. The fungal composition of respiratory samples varies by geographic region and climate. This study investigates fungal colonization in the respiratory tract in a tropical Caribbean environment.

Objective

To identify fungal species colonizing the respiratory tract via broncho-alveolar lavage and evaluate their association with underlying respiratory diseases in Martinique.

Results

Direct examination was positive in 13.4% of samples, while culture was positive in 80.8%. Sterile mycelium (42.28%), Candida (38.25%), and Geotrichum (17.08%) were most prevalent. Moulds were more frequent in bronchiectasis, yeasts in infectious pneumonia, while both were less frequent in diffuse interstitial lung disease.

Conclusion

High prevalence of fungal colonization exists in respiratory samples from Martinique, with significant variability in fungal genera between respiratory diseases. Certain conditions like bronchiectasis and infectious pneumonia favor fungal colonization, while others like diffuse interstitial lung disease appear conducive to fungal elimination.
  • Published in:Journal of Clinical Medicine,
  • Study Type:Retrospective Descriptive and Analytical Study,
  • Source: PMID: 37685550, DOI: 10.3390/jcm12175480
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