Summary about Disease
Invasive candidiasis is a serious bloodstream or organ infection caused by a yeast called Candida. Candida normally lives on the skin and inside the body, in places like the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina, without causing any problems. However, if Candida enters the bloodstream or internal organs, it can cause a severe infection called invasive candidiasis. The most common form is candidemia, an infection of the bloodstream.
Symptoms
Symptoms of invasive candidiasis are often non-specific and can be similar to other infections. They may include:
Fever
Chills
Fatigue
Sepsis (rapid heart rate, low blood pressure)
Infections in specific organs, leading to localized symptoms (e.g., eye infection, heart infection)
Causes
Invasive candidiasis is caused by Candida yeasts entering the bloodstream or internal organs. This can happen due to:
Weakened immune system (e.g., due to HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, organ transplant)
Surgery, especially abdominal surgery
Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics
Central venous catheters
Kidney failure or dialysis
Prolonged hospital stays
Medicine Used
Antifungal medications are used to treat invasive candidiasis. Common antifungal drugs include:
Echinocandins (e.g., caspofungin, micafungin, anidulafungin)
Azoles (e.g., fluconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole)
Amphotericin B The specific medication and duration of treatment depend on the severity and location of the infection, as well as the species of Candida involved.
Is Communicable
Invasive candidiasis is generally not considered communicable from person to person. It's an opportunistic infection, meaning it usually develops when the body's defenses are weakened, allowing Candida, which is already present, to overgrow or invade.
Precautions
Precautions to reduce the risk of invasive candidiasis focus on preventing Candida from entering the bloodstream or internal organs, particularly in vulnerable individuals. These precautions include:
Strict hand hygiene for healthcare workers and patients
Appropriate use of antibiotics
Removal of central venous catheters when no longer needed
Antifungal prophylaxis (preventative medication) for high-risk individuals
Managing underlying medical conditions that weaken the immune system
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of an invasive candidiasis infection and its treatment can vary significantly depending on the severity of the infection, the specific species of Candida involved, the patient's underlying health conditions, and how well the infection responds to antifungal treatment. Treatment typically lasts for several weeks or even months. An "outbreak" in a healthcare setting may last as long as it takes to identify the source and implement effective infection control measures.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of invasive candidiasis typically involves:
Blood cultures: To detect Candida in the bloodstream.
Culture of other body fluids or tissues: Depending on the suspected site of infection.
Imaging tests: Such as CT scans or MRIs, to identify organ involvement.
Beta-D-glucan assay: A blood test that detects a component of the Candida cell wall.
T2Candida panel: a rapid diagnostic test for detecting Candida species directly from whole blood.
Molecular tests (PCR): For rapid identification of Candida species.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary. Some patients may develop symptoms quickly (within a few days of Candida entering the bloodstream), while others may have a more gradual onset. The progression of symptoms depends on factors such as the individual's immune status, the Candida species, and the site of infection. Untreated, invasive candidiasis can rapidly progress to sepsis and organ failure.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in patients with invasive candidiasis.
Invasive candidiasis is a serious condition with a high mortality rate.
Antifungal resistance is an increasing concern, so appropriate antifungal stewardship is essential.
Patients with risk factors for invasive candidiasis should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of infection.
Consultation with an infectious disease specialist is often recommended for optimal management.