Fungal Infections and Social Determinants of Health: Using Data to Identify Disparities
AbstractPurpose of ReviewFungal diseases disproportionately affect certain demographic populations, but few studies have thoroughly investigated the drivers of those disparities. We summarize data sources that can be considered to explore potential associations between fungal diseases and social determinants of health in the United States.Recent FindingsSociodemographic disparities are apparent in fungal diseases, and social determinants of health (e.g., income, living conditions, and healthcare access) may be associated with increased risk of infection, severe disease, and poor health outcomes.SummaryNumerous data sources...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - March 22, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Seborrheic Dermatitis and Parkinson ’s Disease
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe present review aims to analyze the most recent publications and theories associated with the increase of seborrheic dermatitis (SD) in individuals with Parkinson ’s disease (PD). An exhaustive review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and therapeutic interventions available for both pathologies was carried out.Recent FindingsSeveral hypotheses were found. Hypomotility of facial muscles seems to be one of the determinant factors in early stages of the disease, as well as genetic polymorphism, in which lipid bioavailability is increased, both favor...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - March 22, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Antifungal therapy for the treatment of CNS infections
AbstractPurpose of reviewA review of existing and emerging therapies for the treatment of fungal infections of the CNS is presented, highlighting more recent studies. Newly authorized and emerging therapies and the data surrounding their use are also introduced.Recent findingsEarly data suggests Ibrexafungerp, a newly released antifungal for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis, does not have a significant role in the treatment of CNS infections. Combination therapy including therapy with terbinafine appears promising for difficult-to-treat fungal infections of the CNS. Antifungal treatment remains pathogen-specific b...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - March 16, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
A Review of Healthcare-Associated Fungal Outbreaks in Children
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe aim of this review is to examine healthcare-associated fungal outbreaks (HAFO) in children. Our primary objective is to dissect epidemiology and etiology aspects to contribute to the investigation, prevention, and control of HAFO in pediatric settings.Recent FindingsLatest studies have highlighted an increase in fungal infections among hospitalized children. These studies have revealed the involvement of environmental sources and cross-transmission through healthcare workers in the development of outbreaks. The diagnosis of fungal infections poses challenges, as does outbreak control due to non...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - February 28, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Tinea Pedis in Adolescents: A Comprehensive Review
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe purpose of the review is to provide a detailed overview of athlete ’s foot (tinea pedis) in adolescents, covering its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.Recent FindingsResearch on adolescent athlete ’s foot (tinea pedis) reveals its higher prevalence in developed countries during the summer due to communal environments and sports activities. Diagnosis methods include dermoscopy and molecular techniques, while treatment options range from topical to systemic antifungal agents. Preventive measu res emphasize foot hygiene and adolescent awareness.SummaryTinea pedis, commonl...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - February 28, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Empirical Therapy for Invasive Candidiasis in Critically Ill Patients
AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn this narrative review, we discuss recent literature regarding early antifungal therapy in critically ill patients, focusing in particular on the current role of empirical antifungal treatment.Recent FindingsWhile the direction of effect in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring efficacy of empirical therapy in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with suspected invasive candidiasis (IC) was most frequently toward a favorable impact of empirical therapy, no formal demonstration of superiority was observed.SummaryMain results from RCTs seem in contrast with the increased mortality reported fr...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - February 21, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Non-superficial Cutaneous Manifestations by Candida Species
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo define adequate terminology regarding non-superficial or deep cutaneous manifestations of infection byCandida, as well as to describe the most common causal species, clinical manifestations, and treatment options.Recent FindingsThe prevalence and clinical significance of non-albicansCandida species have been increasing. Research has better characterized these emerging fungi.SummaryCandidiasis ranges from superficial mucocutaneous infections to invasive manifestations, including candidemia and organ involvement. Invasive candidiasis (IC) includes candidemia (Candida in the bloodstream) and deep-s...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - February 13, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Tineas Due to Trichophyton erinacei: An Emerging Disease?
AbstractPurpose of ReviewIn order to raise awareness and inform physicians of tineas secondary toTrichophyton erinacei, a review of the epidemiology, clinical picture, diagnosis, therapeutic strategies, and cases reported in the literature was carried out.Recent FindingsWe found 74 cases reported in the literature, where the UK held the first place, followed by a boom of cases in Asia. The main form of presentation was tinea manuum, associated with the handling of hedgehogs without adequate protective material. Luliconazole, a relatively new drug, could be an effective therapeutic option.SummaryTineas secondary toT. erinac...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - February 9, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Pathogenesis of COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis: An Updated Evidence-Based Review
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe current review gives a proper understanding of the various dynamics of COVID-associated mucormycosis (CAM). We provide insight into the agent and recent host-related factors that contributed to CAM. Also, we have discussed various environmental-related factors like fungal spore burden that could have contributed to the pathogenesis of CAM. This review also summarizes the main components of pathogenesis under three primary headings: the immunomodulatory effect of the virus, the involvement of underlying comorbidities conditions in the host, and the numerous treatment-related modalities used duri...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - February 1, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
The Importance of Candida auris in Skin
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCandida auris has been recognized recently as an agent of outbreaks of severe disease, usually in healthcare environments. As a multi-drug resistant pathogen, cases are associated to high mortality rates. The human skin is considered to be the main reservoir of this yeast in the context of disease. This work aims to review theC.auris colonization prevalence, patterns, and mechanisms, as well as give a brief account of the methods for screening and control being used.Recent FindingsThere are high rates of skin colonization involving individuals residing in multi-occupancy healthcare facilities. Alth...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - January 31, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Fungal Respiratory Colonization and Infections in Cystic Fibrosis Patients in the Middle East
AbstractPurpose of ReviewCystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that can progressively affect multiple organs including respiratory tract. CF has been believed to occur infrequently in the Middle East (ME). However, it seems that CF maybe more common in ME countries than expected before. Despite the fact that surveillance of fungal infections is essential, data in the ME region remain scarce. This narrative review aims to evaluate the previously published data on the prevalence of fungal respiratory colonization and infections, spectrum of isolated fungi from the respiratory tract, and antifungal treatment in CF pati...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - January 29, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Cutaneous Infections by Geotrichum spp.
We present the risk factors, clinical presentation, and current recommendations for diagnosing and treating cutaneous infections due toGeotrichum spp.Recent FindingsSkin infections caused by Geotrichum spp. are infrequent. G. candidum and G. klebahnii are the only species of the genus responsible for human infections. In immunocompetent patients, these infections occur due to severe trauma or burns, while in immunosuppressed patients, they are mainly a consequence of dissemination.SummaryGeotrichum spp. infection is challenging to discriminate with colonization because it is a ubiquitous skin colonizer, in such a way that ...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - January 23, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia in HIV-Negative, Non-transplant Patients: Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
AbstractPurpose of ReviewPneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is an opportunistic fungal infection that is increasingly seen in HIV-negative patients with immune compromise due to other etiologies. We lack comprehensive clinical recommendations for this population.Recent FindingsIn non-HIV cases, PJP has a mortality rate of up to 50%, which is unacceptable despite the presence of safe and effective prophylaxis and therapy. Steroid use is one of the most common risk factors for disease development. New data suggests that lower doses of the preferred treatment regimen, TMP-SMX, may be equally effective for treatment while ...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - January 20, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Onychomycosis in Africa: Prevalence and Spectrum of Fungal Pathogens
AbstractPurpose of ReviewOnychomycosis is commonly reported in Africa, but data on its prevalence and spectrum of incriminated pathogens is fragmented in the literature. Understanding its epidemiology and profiling of the incriminated fungal pathogens would be very useful in managing patients as they are often difficult to treat, especially with the global emergence of antifungal resistance.Recent FindingsWe identified a total of 44 well-documented studies in 13 (24.1%) of the 54 African countries amounting to a total of 6773 cases of nail fungal infections: 4609 (68.0%) from North Africa, 1338 (19.6%) from West Africa, 52...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - January 18, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
Climate Change Exacerbating Fungal Disease Disparities
AbstractPurposeof ReviewClimate change (CC) can influence the dynamics of infectious and non-infectious diseases caused by fungal agents. We reviewed the current literature on disparities in fungal diseases associated with CC.Recent FindingsCC has influenced the changes in the fungi ecology and the diseases they cause.SummaryThe increase in global temperature has caused disparities in mycoses: the appearance of new pathogens, such asCandida auris andTrichophyton indotineae, an increase in the severity of cases of blastomycosis and dermatophytosis, exacerbation of allergies, as well as the appearance of mycoses considered e...
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - January 16, 2024 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research
