Candida Infections of Medical Devices

EM Kojic, RO Darouiche - Clinical microbiology reviews, 2004 - Am Soc Microbiol
EM Kojic, RO Darouiche
Clinical microbiology reviews, 2004Am Soc Microbiol
The number of indwelling medical devices is escalating, and an increasing proportion of
device-related infections are being caused by Candida spp. Candida spp. produce biofilms
on synthetic materials, which facilitates adhesion of the organisms to devices and renders
them relatively refractory to medical therapy. Management of device-related Candida
infections can be challenging. Removal of the infected device is generally needed to
establish cure of Candida infections of medical devices. However, since the pathogenesis of …
Summary
The number of indwelling medical devices is escalating, and an increasing proportion of device-related infections are being caused by Candida spp. Candida spp. produce biofilms on synthetic materials, which facilitates adhesion of the organisms to devices and renders them relatively refractory to medical therapy. Management of device-related Candida infections can be challenging. Removal of the infected device is generally needed to establish cure of Candida infections of medical devices. However, since the pathogenesis of Candida bloodstream infection is complicated, more studies are necessary to determine the role of catheter exchange in patients with both gastrointestinal tract mucositis and indwelling catheters. The medical and economic impact of these infections is enormous.
American Society for Microbiology