epidemiology – Page 8

Disseminated subcutaneous sporotrichosis in an immunocompetent patient: A case report and a systematic literature review

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A 74-year-old man developed painful red masses on his arm and hand after being stuck by a tree branch. Tests identified the infection was caused by a fungus called Sporothrix schenckii. Despite having a normal immune system, the infection had spread across his arm in an unusual pattern. Treatment with an antifungal medication called itraconazole completely healed the lesions within four months without any scarring.

Infection caused by a cryptic fungal species, Blastomyces gilchristii, in a tiger

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A tiger at a veterinary hospital developed a serious fungal infection that affected its brain and lungs. Using advanced DNA sequencing technology, researchers identified the infection was caused by a previously unrecognized fungal species called Blastomyces gilchristii. This discovery was important because it showed that this dangerous fungus exists in areas where scientists previously thought it wasn’t found, and it highlights the importance of using modern genetic testing to identify unusual infections.

Invasive Candidiasis in Contexts of Armed Conflict, High Violence, and Forced Displacement in Latin America and the Caribbean (2005–2025)

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Invasive candidiasis, a serious fungal blood infection caused by Candida species, is a major health crisis in Latin America and the Caribbean with death rates reaching 60% in vulnerable populations. The disease is worsening in areas affected by armed conflict, violence, and displacement where poor living conditions, overcrowding, malnutrition, and lack of healthcare create ideal conditions for the infection to develop and spread. Antifungal drugs are often unavailable or too expensive, and drug-resistant strains of Candida are becoming increasingly common, making treatment extremely challenging in these regions.

Incidence and Risk Factors for Invasive Fungal Infection in Patients with Hematological Malignancies at a Tertiary Hospital in Malaysia

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This study examined fungal infections in cancer patients with blood disorders in a Malaysian hospital. Researchers found that about 7.6% of patients developed serious fungal infections, mainly from Candida species. Using antifungal medications to prevent infection significantly reduced the risk, though some patients still developed infections while taking preventive medications. The findings highlight the importance of appropriate antifungal treatment strategies in managing these vulnerable patients.

Fungal infections in burn patients: The rise of Fusarium as the most prevalent in a burn center in Mexico City

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Burn patients are at high risk for serious fungal infections that can cause death. This study from a Mexican burn hospital found that a fungus called Fusarium was the most common cause of these infections, affecting over half of patients with fungal infections. This finding differs from other parts of the world where Aspergillus is usually most common, suggesting that Mexican burn patients face unique fungal threats that doctors should watch for carefully.

Changing Climate, Changing Candida: Environmental and Social Pressures on Invasive Candidiasis and Antifungal Resistance in Latin America

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Invasive fungal infections caused by Candida species are becoming increasingly common and dangerous in Latin American hospitals, with newer strains showing resistance to multiple antifungal drugs. Rising temperatures from climate change and widespread use of fungicides in agriculture appear to be selecting for these resistant fungi. Most hospitals in the region lack advanced diagnostic tools to quickly identify which fungal strain is causing infection, leading to delayed and sometimes inappropriate treatment. Implementing better diagnostic access, stricter antifungal use policies, and coordinated surveillance programs across the region could help control this growing public health problem.

Prevalence of Tinea pedis in military personnel: a systematic review and meta-analysis

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Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection affecting military personnel at rates around 17% globally. Military environments create perfect conditions for this infection through close living quarters, humidity from sweat and boots, and shared facilities. The study found that regions with hot, humid climates have higher infection rates, and proper diagnosis using both microscopy and culture tests is important for accurate detection. Improved hygiene, better-designed footwear, and access to antifungal treatments can significantly reduce infection rates in military settings.

Superficial Fungal Infections in Children—What Do We Know?

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Fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails are increasingly common in children worldwide, especially in warm, humid climates and in crowded living conditions. These infections are caused by germs that live on the skin and can spread through contact with infected people or animals. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems, but most infections are treatable with topical creams or oral medications, with terbinafine being the most effective option currently available.

Neurological Sequelae After Paediatric Cryptococcal Meningitis

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This research reviewed 868 children worldwide who had cryptococcal meningitis, a serious fungal brain infection. One in five surviving children experienced long-term neurological problems, most commonly vision loss, weakness, learning difficulties, or hearing loss. Importantly, no child in the medical literature received proper neurological testing after recovery, meaning the actual burden of problems is likely much higher. The study emphasizes the critical need for formal follow-up assessments and rehabilitation services for these children to help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

Infection caused by a cryptic fungal species, Blastomyces gilchristii, in a tiger

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A tiger in Tennessee became ill with a serious fungal infection caused by a lesser-known fungus called Blastomyces gilchristii. While blastomycosis is typically caused by a different fungus species, this case represents the first detection of this particular cryptic fungal species in the southeastern United States. Scientists used advanced genetic sequencing to identify the fungus when standard laboratory methods failed. This discovery suggests that this dangerous fungus is spreading to areas where it was not previously thought to exist.

Research Keyword: epidemiology