Identification of fungal agents isolated from burn lesions using mycological and molecular methods in patients admitted to Velayat burn hospital in Rasht city during 2022–2023

Author: mycolabadmin
8/1/2024
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Summary

Researchers studied fungal infections in burn patients at a hospital in Iran and found that non-albicans Candida fungi, particularly a species called Candida parapsilosis, were the most common culprits. Using laboratory cultures and genetic testing, they identified 101 fungal infections out of 380 burn patients. Understanding which fungi cause these infections is important for doctors to choose the right treatment and improve patient outcomes.

Background

Fungal burn wound infections (FBWIs) are a significant complication in burn patients with increasing incidence due to antibiotic use and clinical awareness challenges. The epidemiology of burn infections has changed over time and varies geographically, with limited information available about fungal species distribution in Iran.

Objective

To investigate the incidence and species distribution of fungal agents isolated from burn lesions and review patient features, underlying conditions, and outcomes at Velayat burn hospital in Rasht, Iran.

Results

Of 380 specimens, 101 (26.75%) patients tested positive for fungal infection. Candida parapsilosis complex was the most common isolate (35.64%), followed by Pichia kudriavzevii/Candida krusei (7.92%). Non-albicans Candida species were much more frequent than C. albicans, with single-species infections predominating and a 2% mortality rate.

Conclusion

Non-albicans Candida species were significantly more frequent than C. albicans in burn wound infections, with Candida parapsilosis complex being the predominant agent. These findings highlight the importance of appropriate fungal identification and monitoring in burn centers for effective treatment.

Published in:Iran Journal of Microbiology,
Study Type:Descriptive Cross-sectional Study,
Source: PMID: 39267924, DOI: 10.18502/ijm.v16i4.16308