Fungal infections – Page 19

COVID-19-associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Mechanically Ventilated Patients at 7 US Hospitals: Epidemiology and Estimated Likelihood of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis—Results of the Prospective MSG-017 Study

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A fungal infection caused by Aspergillus commonly occurs in COVID-19 patients on ventilators, affecting about 7% of cases. The study found that having this infection was linked to high death rates, but it was unclear whether the fungal infection itself or the severe COVID-19 caused the deaths. Single positive test results for the fungus are not reliable for diagnosis, and antifungal drugs did not improve survival rates.

Retrospective Analysis on the Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Antifungal Prophylaxis in Patients with Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis

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This study examined whether giving antifungal medications to peritoneal dialysis patients with infections could prevent fungal peritonitis. The researchers found that patients receiving antifungal prophylaxis actually had higher rates of secondary fungal infections compared to those without it. Additionally, fluconazole treatment was associated with dangerous changes in heart electrical activity, suggesting potential cardiac risks.

Tinea genitalis profunda caused by Microsporum canis: A case report and literature review

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A 23-year-old woman developed a severe fungal infection in the genital area caused by a fungus normally found on dogs. Her initial antibiotic treatment failed because the infection was actually fungal, not bacterial. After diagnosis through fungal culture, she was successfully treated with antifungal medications, though the infection left some scarring and discoloration. This case highlights how genital fungal infections can be difficult to diagnose because they look similar to bacterial infections.

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.

Candida krusei Empyema: A Lung Transplant Case and Systematic Review of the Literature

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Candida krusei is a dangerous yeast that causes a serious lung infection called empyema, where pus collects around the lungs. This infection is particularly difficult to treat because the yeast is resistant to common antifungal drugs like fluconazole and can form protective biofilms. This systematic review identified only ten cases of this rare infection in the medical literature, showing how uncommon but serious it is, and found that patients need aggressive treatment with multiple antifungal medications combined with surgical drainage to survive.

Histoplasma capsulatum as a cause for prolonged pulmonary illness in an immunocompetent returning traveller from Bangladesh

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A 57-year-old man returning from Bangladesh developed a severe lung infection that lasted several weeks and required hospitalization with breathing support. Doctors initially thought he had tuberculosis or bacterial pneumonia, but standard tests came back negative. Advanced fungal testing eventually identified the cause as histoplasmosis, a fungal infection he likely caught while supervising construction work. After treatment with antifungal medications, the patient recovered and was discharged to continue medication at home for a year.

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.

Epidemiological Profile of Otomycosis at the Peace Hospital of Ziguinchor (Senegal)

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This study examined fungal ear infections (otomycosis) in a hospital in Senegal, finding that 85% of suspected cases were confirmed as fungal infections. The most common culprits were Aspergillus mold and Candida yeast species. The research emphasizes that proper fungal identification is crucial for effective treatment, as doctors might otherwise prescribe unnecessary antibiotics that don’t work against fungi.

Invasive Rhinocerebral Mucormycosis Is a Rare Complication in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Patient

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A 5-year-old girl with a serious joint disease called systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis developed a dangerous fungal infection in her nasal cavity and brain area. The fungal infection, caused by a mold organism called Lichtheimia, occurred because her immune system was severely weakened by medications used to treat her arthritis. Doctors treated the infection with antifungal drugs and surgery, and the patient eventually recovered by switching to a different arthritis medication. This case highlights how the strong medications needed to control some childhood arthritis can unexpectedly cause serious fungal infections.

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.

Research Topic: Fungal infections