epidemiology – Page 9

Epidemiology and outcomes of Candida-associated osteoarticular infections: A multicentre retrospective study from Turkey

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Researchers in Turkey studied 73 patients with rare bone and joint infections caused by Candida fungi over 10 years. They found that about half of the infections were caused by species other than the common C. albicans, with some showing resistance to fluconazole antibiotics. Surgical procedures to clean out infected tissue significantly improved patient recovery, while patients with diabetes had worse outcomes and recovered less completely.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice on mushroom poisoning among residents of Jilin province

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This study examined what residents of Jilin Province know, believe, and do about mushroom poisoning. Researchers found that most people have only moderate knowledge about the dangers of wild mushrooms, with significant gaps in understanding toxicity. While people generally have positive attitudes toward safety, many still engage in risky practices like consuming wild mushrooms. The research highlights the need for better public education, especially in rural areas where access to medical help and health information may be limited.

Etiological Agents and Predisposing Factors of Superficial Fungal Infections in Northeastern Argentina

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Researchers studied fungal skin infections in a community in northeastern Argentina, finding that 37% of patients had these infections. The most common cause was a fungus called Trichophyton tonsurans. Poor living conditions like overcrowding and lack of clean water increased infection risk. The study shows that fungal skin infections are a significant health problem in areas with limited access to basic sanitation and water services.

Gastrointestinal and Intra-Abdominal Mucormycosis in Non-Haematological Patients—A Comprehensive Review

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This review examines a serious but rare fungal infection called mucormycosis that affects the stomach and intestines. The infection most commonly occurs in patients with diabetes, those who have received organ transplants, or those in intensive care units. Diagnosis can be difficult because symptoms are non-specific, but prompt treatment with antifungal medications and surgery when possible significantly improves survival rates. Early recognition and rapid diagnosis are critical for patients to have the best outcomes.

Addressing Critical Fungal Pathogens Under a One Health Perspective: Key Insights from the Portuguese Association of Medical Mycology

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This comprehensive study by Portugal’s mycology experts examines four dangerous fungi that cause severe infections: Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida auris, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans. The research shows that Portugal’s hospitals have varying capabilities to diagnose and treat these infections, with some laboratories well-equipped and others lacking advanced diagnostic tools. The study found concerning increases in antifungal resistance and highlights that these fungi live in hospitals, water systems, soil, and even animals, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches connecting human, animal, and environmental health to better protect public health.

Neonatal Invasive Candidiasis: Current Concepts

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Serious fungal infections (candidiasis) in newborns have become increasingly difficult to treat, especially in developing countries. The types of fungi causing these infections have changed dramatically, with many now resisting the standard fluconazole treatment. Modern medical care, like proper handwashing, environmental cleaning, and careful line care, is actually more effective at preventing these infections than giving preventive antifungal drugs. Healthcare providers need better tools for quickly identifying which fungal species is causing infection and which drugs will work against it.

Recognizing the Importance of Public Health Mycology

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This editorial highlights how fungal infections are a growing but overlooked global health crisis, killing about 2.5 million people annually. The paper brings together seven research articles studying different fungal diseases, from lung infections to skin conditions, showing how these diseases spread differently in different populations and how resistance to antifungal medications is increasing. The authors emphasize that better testing, treatment access, and worldwide disease tracking are urgently needed, especially in poorer countries where the burden of fungal disease is highest.

Clinical insights into mixed Candida and bacterial bloodstream infections: a retrospective cohort study

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This study found that when both Candida fungus and bacteria are present together in a patient’s bloodstream, the outcome is much more serious than when only Candida is present. Among patients with these mixed infections, over 60% died within 30 days compared to about 52% for those with only Candida. The research shows that giving the right antibiotics early and following proper treatment guidelines can significantly improve survival chances in these severe, life-threatening infections.

Nosocomial Diarrhea Distribution by Cryptosporidium in Isfahan

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Researchers tested 217 patients who developed diarrhea in a hospital in Isfahan, Iran to see if a parasite called Cryptosporidium was responsible. Using advanced DNA testing, they found the parasite in only 2 out of 217 patients (less than 1%). This suggests that while this parasite can spread in hospitals, it is not a major cause of diarrhea in this particular hospital, which likely has good hygiene practices.

Pan-Indian Clinical Registry of Invasive Fungal Infections Among Patients in the Intensive Care Unit: Protocol for a Multicentric Prospective Study

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Fungal infections are a serious hidden threat in hospital intensive care units, particularly for patients with weakened immune systems. This study establishes India’s first comprehensive database system to track fungal infections across 8 major medical centers nationwide. By collecting detailed information about these infections and how they respond to treatments, the research aims to help doctors diagnose and treat fungal infections faster and more effectively. The findings will guide better clinical practices and public health policies to combat these often-neglected but deadly infections.

Research Keyword: epidemiology