Epidemiología, especies, resistencia antifúngica y evolución de las candidemias en un hospital universitario de Buenos Aires, Argentina, durante 16 años / Epidemiology, species, antifungal resistance and outcome of candidemia in a university hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina for 16 years

Resumen Introducción: La epidemiologia de las candidemias varía en cada región. Objetivos: Conocer la epidemiología de las candidemias en un hospital durante 16 años. Material y Métodos: Se revisaron los episodios de candidemia ocurridos en el Hospital de Clínicas de Buenos Aires desde 01/01/98 al 31/12/13. Resultados: Se identificaron 374 episodios de candidemia. La incidencia fue de 2,21/1.000 egresos y aumentó de 1,96 (1998-2005) a 2,25 (2006-2013) (p = 0,023). Se diagnosticaron: 5,4% en neonatos, 1,7% en lactantes, 6,5% en niños mayores, 31,8% en adultos y 52,7% en adultos mayores de 64 años. Los episodios fueron causados por C. albicans (40,9%), C. parapsilosis (21,7%), C. tropicalis (15,5%), C. glabrata (13,9%), otras especies de Candida (5,1%) y candidemias multiespecies (2,9%). El 5,3% de los aislados fue resistente a fluconazol. Setenta y cuatro por ciento de los pacientes recibió tratamiento; 70,3% lo inició con fluconazol, 25% con anfotericina B desoxicolato y 4,7% con equinocandinas o anfotericinas lipídicas. Se retiró 81% de los catéteres venosos centrales. La mortalidad fue de 47,9%, pero fue de 60,8% para los adultos mayores. Conclusión: La incidencia de candidemias se incrementó a través de los años, fue mayor en los adultos mayores y esta población tuvo peor evolución.

Background: The epidemiology of candidemia vary by region. Aim: To determine the epidemiology of candidemia in a hospital for 16 years. Material and Methods: Episodes of candidemia occurred in the Hospital de Clinicas of Buenos Aires were reviewed, from 01/01/98 to 31/12/13. Results: 374 episodes of candidemia were identified. The incidence was 2.21/1,000 discharges and increased from 1.96 (1998-2005) to 2.25 (2006-2013) (p = 0.023). Candidemia was diagnosed: 5.4% in neonates, 1.7% in infants, 6.5% in children, 31.8% in adults and 52.7% in elderly adults over 64 years old. The episodes were caused by C. albicans (40.9%), C. parapsilosis (21.7%), C. tropicalis (15.5%), C. glabrata (13.9%), other species of Candida (5.1%) and more than one species of Candida (2.9%). The 5.3% of the isolates were resistant to fluconazole. 74% of patients were treated. Initial treatments were with fluconazole (70.3%), amphotericin B deoxycholate (25%), echinocandins or lipidic amphotericin (4,7%). The 81% of central venous catheters were taken off. Mortality rate was of 47.9%, but in the elderly adults was of 60.8%. Conclusion: The incidence of candidemia showed an increase over the years. It was higher in the elderly adults, being the group with worse outcomes.

Epidemiología y susceptibilidad antifúngica de especies causantes de candidemia en la ciudad de Valdivia, Chile / Epidemiology and antifungal susceptibility of species producing candidemia in Valdivia, Chile

Resumen Introducción: La epidemiología de la candidemia en Chile es poco conocida, a pesar de ser una enfermedad frecuente y grave. Objetivos: Analizar la incidencia y perfil de susceptibilidad in vitro de especies del género Candida causantes de candidemia en el Hospital Base Valdivia. Material y Métodos: Se identificó todos los casos de candidemia ocurridos en la institución entre marzo de 2009 y agosto de 2011. Se estudió la distribución de especies y susceptibilidad in vitro por el método de disco difusión. Resultados: Se estudiaron 27 episodios de candidemia. La incidencia varió de 0,3 a 0,7 por 1.000 egresos (según servicio clínico). Fueron factores de riesgo: la hospitalización, uso previo de antimicrobianos, edad avanzada y enfermedad de base (insuficiencia renal, enfermedad cardiaca y pulmonar). La especie más frecuente fue C. albicans seguida de C. tropicalis, C. glabrata y C. krusei. Voriconazol fue el antifúngico con mejor actividad in vitro y hubo resultados variables para anfotericina B, fluconazol e itraconazol. Discusión: La incidencia encontrada fue superior a la de países desarrollados. Candida albicans, constituye la especie más frecuente, con alta sensibilidad in vitro a fluconazol, debiendo ser vigiladas las especies de Candida no albicans. Es fundamental desarrollar nuevas investigaciones para detectar potenciales variaciones epidemiológicas.

Background: Candidemia disease in Chile is not very known, despite being a very common and serious disease. Aim: To analyze incidence and susceptibility profile of species from the genus Candida in Hospital Base Valdivia. Material and Methods: All candidemia cases presented between March 2009 and August 2011 in our institution were identified. Species distribution and susceptibility were studied through the disk diffusion method. Results: Twenty-seven candidemia episodes were studied. Incidence varied from 0.3 to 0.7 by a thousand discharges (according to clinical service). Risk factors were hospitalization, preliminary use of antibiotics, aged people and underlying disease (renal failure, heart and lung disease). The most frequent species was C. albicans, followed by C. tropicalis, C. glabrata and C. krusei. Voriconazole was the antifungal showing the best in vitro performance. Amphotericin B, fluconazole and itraconazole presented variable results. Discussion: Incidence found was superior to that described in developed countries. Candida albicans constitute the most frequent species, with high sensitivity levels to fluconazole; Candida no albicans species must be monitored. Developing new research on the topic appears as fundamental to detect potential epidemiological variations.

Prevalence and antibiogram of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from medical device-related infections; a retrospective study in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract INTRODUCTION: With the advancement of medicine and surgery, various types of medical devices have become part of treatment strategies. METHODS: Identification and antimicrobial sensitivity testing were done according to CLSI guidelines following standard microbiological practices. RESULTS: Urinary catheter infections (31%) were most frequent followed by central venous catheter (18%) and orthopedic implants (15%). Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was a major cause of device-related infection after Escherichia coli (21%); other pathogens were Klebsiella pneumoniae (14%), Pseudomonas spp. (10%), Acinetobacter spp. (8%) and Candida species (7%). None of MRSA was resistant to vancomycin (MIC ≥16µg/mL). Resistance rates were 98% and 97% for ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Escherichia coli and MRSA are major pathogens of medical device-related infections.

Candida parapsilosis: principal causa de candidemia en un hospital de referencia para adultos de Costa Rica / Candida parapsilosis: a major cause of bloodstream infection in a tertiary care hospital in Costa Rica

Background: Invasive Candida bloodstream infections are frequent and display high mortality in clinical practice. There is scarce published on this topic in Central America. Objective: To characterize the epidemiology of candidemia in a hospital setting in Costa Rica. Methods: 210 cases of nosocomial candidemia were analyzed in patients over 17 years of age, admitted to Hospital Mexico, between 2007 and 2011. Descriptive and temporary analyses were performed and the risk factors associated with C. parapsilosis and survival were evaluated. Results: The incidence rate of candidemia was 1.47 cases per 1,000 admissions. The non-albicans Candida represented 62% of the isolated yeasts. Except for 2009, C. parapsilosis was the most commonly isolated species in four out of the five years reviewed, followed by C. albicans. There was a strong association between C. parapsilosis, the presence of a central venous catheter (OR: 4.8, CI 95%: 1.8-14.6, p < 0.001) and the use of parenteral nutrition (p: 0.008). The 30-day mortality was 50%. Candida albicans displayed the highest mortality and C. parapsilosis the lowest. Patients who did not receive anti-fungal treatment showed a significantly higher probability of death. Conclusions: The high incidence of candidemia from C. parapsilosis is directly related to the use of central venous catheters and parenteral nutrition. There is a need for creating local guidelines addressing the use of central venous catheters and parenteral nutrition, as well as implementing hand hygiene protocols.

Introducción: Las infecciones invasoras por Candida son frecuentes y de alta mortalidad. Existe poca información publicada de la región centroamericana. Objetivo: Caracterizar la epidemiología de la candidemia en un hospital de Costa Rica. Métodos: Se analizaron 210 episodios de candidemia nosocomial en pacientes sobre 17 años de edad, entre los años 2007 y 2011. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo y temporal de la serie y evaluación de las características clínicas asociadas haciendo énfasis en C. parapsilosis. Resultados: La incidencia acumulada de candidemia fue 1,47 casos/1.000 admisiones. Las especies de Candida no albicans constituyeron 62% de las levaduras aisladas. Exceptuando el año 2009, C. parapsilosis fue la especie predominante en cuatro de los cinco años estudiados, seguida por C. albicans. Se demostró una fuerte asociación entre C. parapsilosis, la presencia de catéter venoso central (OR: 4,8, IC 95%: 1,8-14,6, p < 0,001) y el uso de nutrición parenteral (p: 0,008). La mortalidad a 30 días fue de 50%. Candida albicans mostró la mortalidad más alta y C. parapsilosis la más baja. Los pacientes que no recibieron tratamiento antifúngico presentaron un aumento significativo en la mortalidad. Conclusiones: La incidencia elevada de candidemia por C. parapsilosis está relacionada con los catéteres venosos centrales y la administración de nutrición parenteral. Para su control es necesario establecer guías locales para uso de los catéteres venosos centrales y la nutrición parenteral, así como implementar estrategias para promocionar la higiene de las manos.

Prevalence of periodontopathogens and Candida spp. in smokers after nonsurgical periodontal therapy - a pilot study

Abstract This pilot study aimed to evaluate the influence of smoking on clinical and microbiological parameters after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Forty-eight subjects were grouped into smokers (SM, n = 24) and nonsmokers (NS, n = 24) and paired according to gender, age, ethnicity, and periodontal status. Both groups received oral hygiene education and scaling and root planing. Clinical evaluation was performed using plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), pocket probing depth (PPD), gingival recession (GR), and clinical attachment level (CAL) before instrumentation (baseline) and at 3 and 6 months. The prevalence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, and Candida dubliniensis in subgingival biofilm was determined by polymerase chain reaction. The data were statistically analyzed considering p < 0.05. Clinical conditions improved between baseline and 3 months after periodontal treatment. However, NS had a better clinical response, presenting greater PPD reduction and CAL increase in comparison to SM. Periodontal treatment reduced the levels of P. gingivalis, A. actinomycetemcomitans, and T. forsythia individually after 3 months for the NS group and after 6 months for both groups. The prevalence of Candida species was markedly higher in SM than in NS at all time points evaluated. Periodontopathogens associated or not with C. albicans or C. dubliniensis were more prevalent in SM than in NS at baseline and after 3 months. It was concluded that smoking impairs clinical and microbiological responses to periodontal therapy. Periodontopathogens combined or not with some Candida species are resistant to short-term periodontal therapy in SM.

FREQUENCY OF Candida SPECIES IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN TRIANGULO MINEIRO, MINAS GERAIS STATE, BRAZIL / Frequência de espécies de Candida em hospital terciário do Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Infections by Candida species are a high-impact problem in public health due to their wide incidence in hospitalized patients. The goal of this study was to evaluate frequency, susceptibility to antifungals, and genetic polymorphism of Candida species isolated from clinical specimens of hospitalized patients. The Candida isolates included in this study were obtained from blood cultures, abdominal fluids, and central venous catheters (CVC) of hospitalized patients at the Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Uberlândia during the period of July 2010 - June 2011. Susceptibility tests were conducted by the broth microdilution method. The RAPD-PCR tests used employed initiator oligonucleotides OPA09, OPB11, and OPE06. Of the 63 Candida isolates, 18 (28.5%) were C. albicans, 20 (31.7%) were C. parapsilosis complex species, 14 (22.2%) C. tropicalis, four (6.4%) C. glabrata, four (6.4%) C. krusei, two (3.3%) C. kefyr, and one (1.6%) C. lusitaniae. In vitro resistance to amphotericin B was observed in 12.7% of isolates. In vitro resistance to azoles was not detected, except for C. krusei. The two primers, OPA09 and OPB11, were able to distinguish different species. Isolates of C. albicans and C. parapsilosis complex species presented six and five clusters, respectively, with the OPA09 marker by RAPD-PCR, showing the genetic variability of the isolates of those species. It was concluded that members of the C. parapsilosis complex were the most frequent species found, and most isolates were susceptible to the antifungals amphotericin B, flucozanole, and itraconazole. High genetic polymorphisms were observed for isolates of C. albicans and C. parapsilosis complex species, mainly with the OPA09 marker.

As infecções causadas por espécies de Candida são problema de grande impacto para a saúde pública, devido à alta incidência em pacientes hospitalizados e como causa de mortalidade. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a frequência de Candida spp. isoladas de pacientes hospitalizados, assim como a sensibilidade aos antifúngicos e o polimorfismo genético por RAPD-PCR. Os microrganismos incluíram isolados de hemocultura, líquido abdominal e ponta de cateter venoso central de pacientes internados no Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, região do Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, Brasil, no período de julho de 2010-junho de 2011. Os testes de sensibilidade aos antifúngicos foram realizados por microdiluição em caldo e na análise por RAPD-PCR foram utilizados os oligonucleotídeos OPA09, OPB11, e OPE06. Dos 63 isolados, 18 (28,5%) foram C. albicans, 20 (31,7%) C. parapsilosis, 14 (22,2%) C. tropicalis, quatro (6,4%) C. glabrata, quatro (6,4%) C. krusei, dois (3,3%) C. kefyr, e um (1,6%) C. lusitaniae. Resistência in-vitro à anfotericina B foi observada em 12,7% dos isolados. Não foi observada resistência in-vitro aos azólicos, exceto para os isolados de C. krusei. Os oligonucleotídeos OPA09 e OPB11 possibilitaram distinguir diferentes espécies. Isolados de C. albicans apresentaram seis clusters e o complexo C. parapsilosis, cinco clusters, com o iniciador OPA09, por RAPD-PCR, mostrando a variabilidade genética daquelas espécies. Conclui-se que o complexo C. parapsilosis foi a espécie mais frequente, e a maioria dos isolados foi sensível in vitro aos antifúngicos testados. Alto polimorfismo genético foi observado para os isolados de C. albicans e complexo C. parapsilosis, principalmente com o oligonucleotídeo OPA09.

Prevalence of Candida albicans and non-albicans isolates from vaginal secretions: comparative evaluation of colonization, vaginal candidiasis and recurrent vaginal candidiasis in diabetic and non-diabetic women / Prevalência de Candida albicans e não albicans isoladas de secreção vaginal: avaliação comparativa entre colonização, candidíase vaginal e candidíase vaginal recorrente em mulheres diabéticas e não diabéticas

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is caused by abnormal growth of yeast-like fungi on the female genital tract mucosa. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are more susceptible to fungal infections, including those caused by species of Candida. The present study investigated the frequency of total isolation of vaginal Candida spp., and its different clinical profiles - colonization, VVC and recurrent VVC (RVVC) - in women with DM type 2, compared with non-diabetic women. The cure rate using fluconazole treatment was also evaluated. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted in the public healthcare system of Maringá, Paraná, Brazil. METHODS: The study involved 717 women aged 17-74 years, of whom 48 (6.7%) had DM type 2 (mean age: 53.7 years), regardless of signs and symptoms of VVC. The yeasts were isolated and identified using classical phenotypic methods. RESULTS: In the non-diabetic group (controls), total vaginal yeast isolation occurred in 79 (11.8%) women, and in the diabetic group in 9 (18.8%) (P = 0.000). The diabetic group showed more symptomatic (VVC + RVVC = 66.66%) than colonized (33.33%) women, and showed significantly more colonization, VVC and RVVC than seen among the controls. The mean cure rate using fluconazole was 75.0% in the diabetic group and 86.7% in the control group (P = 0.51). CONCLUSION: We found that DM type 2 in Brazilian women was associated with yeast colonization, VVC and RVVC, and similar isolation rates for C. albicans and non-albicans species. Good cure rates were obtained using fluconazole in both groups. .

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Candidíase vulvovaginal (CVV) é causada pelo crescimento anormal de fungos do tipo leveduras na mucosa do trato genital feminino. Pacientes com diabetes mellitus (DM) são mais susceptíveis a infecções fúngicas, incluindo por espécies de Candida. O presente estudo investigou a frequência de isolamento total de Candida spp. vaginal, e diferentes quadros clínicos (CVV e CVV recorrente- CVVR) em mulheres com DM tipo 2 comparadas às não diabéticas. A razão de cura do tratamento com fluconazol também foi avaliada. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal realizado no sistema público de saúde de Maringá, Paraná, Brazil. MÉTODO: O estudo envolveu 717 mulheres de 17-74 anos de idade e, destas, 48 (6,7%) tinham DM 2 (média de 53,7 anos), independentemente de sinais e sintomas de CVV. As leveduras foram isoladas e identificadas por métodos fenotípicos clássicos. RESULTADOS: No grupo de não diabéticas (controle), leveduras vaginais totais foram isoladas em 79 (11,8%) mulheres, e no grupo de diabéticas, em 9 (18,8%) (P = 0,000). O grupo de diabéticas mostrou mais mulheres sintomáticas (CVV + CVVR = 66,66%) do que colonizadas (33.33%), e significativamente mais colonização, CVV e CVVR, que as controle. A razão média de cura com fluconazol foi de 75.0% no grupo diabéticas e 86.7% no controle (P = 0.51). CONCLUSÃO: Nós encontramos que DM 2 em mulheres brasileiras associou-se com colonização vaginal por leveduras, CVV e CVVR, razão similar de isolamento de C. albicans e espécies não albicans. Boa taxa de cura foi obtida com fluconazol em ambos os grupos.

Candida spp. isolated from inpatients, the environment, and health practitioners in the pediatric unit at the Universitary Hospital of the Jundiaí Medical College, state of São Paulo, Brazil / Candida spp. isoladas de pacientes internados, profissionais da saúde e de ambiente na unidade de pediatria do Hospital Universitário da Faculdade de Medicina de Jundiaí, estado de São Paulo, Brasil

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to isolate and identify Candida spp. from the environment, health practitioners, and patients with the presumptive diagnosis of candidiasis in the Pediatric Unit at the Universitary Hospital of the Jundiaí Medical College, to verify the production of enzymes regarded as virulence factors, and to determine how susceptible the isolated samples from patients with candidiasis are to antifungal agents. METHODS: Between March and November of 2008 a total of 283 samples were taken randomly from the environment and from the hands of health staff, and samples of all the suspected cases of Candida spp. hospital-acquired infection were collected and selected by the Infection Control Committee. The material was processed and the yeast genus Candida was isolated and identified by physiological, microscopic, and macroscopic attributes. RESULTS: The incidence of Candida spp. in the environment and employees was 19.2%. The most frequent species were C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis among the workers, C. guilliermondii and C. tropicalis in the air, C. lusitanae on the contact surfaces, and C. tropicalis and C. guilliermondii in the climate control equipment. The college hospital had 320 admissions, of which 13 (4%) presented Candida spp. infections; three of them died, two being victims of a C. tropicalis infection and the remaining one of C. albicans. All the Candida spp. in the isolates evidenced sensitivity to amphotericin B, nystatin, and fluconazole. CONCLUSIONS: The increase in the rate of hospital-acquired infections caused by Candida spp. indicates the need to take larger measures regarding recurrent control of the environment.

INTRODUÇÃO: Isolar e identificar Candida spp. do ambiente, dos profissionais de saúde e de pacientes com diagnóstico presuntivo de candidíase, em Unidade de Pediatria do Hospital Universitário da Faculdade de Medicina de Jundiaí, verificar a produção de enzimas consideradas fatores de virulência e identificar a resistência das cepas isoladas dos pacientes aos antifúngicos. MÉTODOS: Foram feitas 283 coletas no período entre março e novembro de 2008 de forma randomizada do ambiente, das mãos de profissionais de saúde e de todos os pacientes com casos suspeitos de infecção hospitalar por Candida spp., triados pelo Comitê de Infecção Hospitalar. Todo o material coletado foi processado e as leveduras do gênero Candida foram isoladas e identificadas pelas características macroscópicas, microscópicas e fisiológicas. RESULTADOS: A incidência de Candida spp. no meio-ambiente e funcionários foi de 19,2%. Destes, as espécies mais frequentes entre os funcionários foram C. parapsilosis e C. tropicalis; no ar ambiente, C. guilliermondii e C. tropicalis; nas superfícies dos ambientes, C. lusitanae e nos sistemas de climatização, C. tropicalis e C. guilliermondii. No período de estudo, foram feitas 320 internações, e 13 (4%) apresentaram infecção hospitalar por Candida spp, sendo que 3 pacientes foram a óbito, dois apresentando infecção por C. tropicalis e um por C. albicans. Todas as espécies de Candida spp. isoladas dos pacientes foram sensíveis à anfotericina B, nistatina e fluconazol. CONCLUSÕES: Verificamos um aumento crescente de infecções hospitalares por Candida não albicans, o que sugere a necessidade de maiores precauções em relação a um controle ambiental destas espécies.

Onicomicosis: epidemiología, agentes causales y evaluación de los métodos diagnósticos de laboratorio / Onychomycoses: epidemiology, causative agents and assessment of diagnostic laboratory methods

Desde marzo de 2007 hasta marzo de 2011 se estudiaron prospectivamente 414 pacientes con onicodistrofias en un laboratorio privado de Esquel. La prevalencia de onicomicosis de pie fue del 78 %; la de mano, del 58 %. Los principales agentes etiológicos fueron Trichophyton rubrum, Candida spp. y Trichophyton mentagrophytes. El desarrollo de dermatofitos prevaleció en las onicopatías de pie y el de Candida spp. en las de uñas de mano (ambos, p < 0,05). En las onicomicosis candidiásicas predominaron especies diferentes a Candida albicans. Las onicomicosis fueron más frecuentes en los hombres que en las mujeres. A su vez, en los hombres hubo más aislamientos de T. rubrum en pies (p < 0,05) y mayor proporción de exámenes directos (ED) y cultivos positivos (ambos, p < 0,05). La correlación entre los resultados del ED y del cultivo fue del 68 %. El rédito de ambos métodos se asoció a un mayor tamaño de la lesión ungueal. El ED fue más efectivo en onicodistrofias que superaban los 5 años de evolución. La positividad del cultivo fue independiente de la cronicidad de la onicodistrofia.

Since March 2007 to March 2011, 414 patients with onychopathies were prospectively analyzed. Prevalence of the toenail and fingernail mycoses was 78 % and 58 %, respectively. The major etiological agents were Trichophyton rubrum, Candida spp. and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Dermatophytes were more frequently cultured from toenails, whereas Candida spp. from fingernails (both, p < 0.05). In candidal onychomycosis, species different from C. albicans were prevalent. A higher prevalence of toenail and fingernail mycoses, a predominance of T. rubrum in toenails (p < 0.05), and greater positivity in the direct examination (DE) and in culture (both, p < 0.05) were more frequently observed in men than in women. The correlation between DE and culture was 68 %. DE and culture yields were associated with a greater size lesion. DE was more effective in onycodystrophies with duration of more than 5 years. Culture positivity was independent of nail affection chronicity.

Frequência de leveduras em fluido vaginal de mulheres com e sem suspeita clínica de candidíase vulvovaginal / Frequency of yeasts in vaginal fluid of women with and without clinical suspicion of vulvovaginal candidiasis

OBJETIVO: estudar a candidíase vulvovaginal em mulheres com e sem suspeita clínica a partir de fluido vaginal, identificando frequência de Candida spp. e associando a fatores de risco intrínsecos e extrínsecos. MÉTODOS: foram coletadas 286 amostras de pacientes atendidas em clínicas e postos de saúde entre Agosto de 2005 e Agosto de 2007. Foram 121 mulheres com suspeita e 165 sem suspeita clínica. Com zaragatoas estéreis, as amostras foram coletadas, transportadas ao laboratório em solução fisiológica 0,85 por cento, semeadas em CHROMagar Candida e em meio ágar Sabouraud 4 por cento com cloranfenicol. Foram realizados os procedimentos clássicos para identificação: macro e micromorfologia, zimograma e auxanograma. Os dados obtidos foram analisados através de testes de frequência e tabelas de contingência (χ2). RESULTADOS: Um total de 47,9 por cento das mulheres com suspeita clínica obteve confirmação de candidíase pelos exames laboratoriais. Das pacientes sem suspeita clínica (Grupo Controle), 78,2 por cento foram negativas para candidíase vulvovaginal pelos testes laboratoriais. Candida albicans foi a espécie prevalente com 74,5 por cento dos casos. Foram encontradas diferenças significativas para os casos positivos, de acordo com as pacientes das duas cidades avaliadas (p<0,05). O vestuário foi um aspecto diferencial encontrado entre as duas populações estudadas. CONCLUSÕES: a presença de fatores predisponentes não define, seguramente, a candidíase vulvovaginal. A localização geográfica tem mostrado ser um fator relevante na distribuição dos eventos. O tipo de vestuário pode ser uma das razões. O cultivo de amostras do conteúdo vaginal, seguida de identificação do micro-organismo, é importante.

PURPOSE: to study vulvovaginal candidiasis from the vaginal fluid of women with and without clinical suspicion, identifying the frequency of Candida spp., and associating it with intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors. METHODS: a total of 286 samples from patients attended in private practices and public health units from August 2005 to August 2007 were collected, being 121 women under clinical suspicion and 165, without. The samples were collected with sterile swabs, taken to the laboratory in 0.85 percent physiological solution, and then seeded in CHROMagar Candida and in 4 percent agar Sabourad with chloramphenicol. Classical identification procedures were carried out: macro and micromorphology, zymogram and auxanogram. Data obtained were analyzed by frequency tests and contingency tables (χ2). RESULTS: a total of 47.9 percent of the women under clinical suspicion got confirmation of candidiasis by the laboratorial tests. Among the patients without clinical suspicion (Control Group), 78.2 percent were vulvovaginal candidiasis negative according to the laboratorial tests. Candida albicans was the prevalent strain in 74.5 percent of the cases. There were significant differences among the positive cases, according to the patients from the two cities evaluated (p<0.05). Clothing was one differential aspect found among the two populations studied. CONCLUSIONS: the presence of predisposing factors does not necessarily define vulvovaginal candidiasis. Geographical localization has shown to be a relevant factor in the distribution of events. The type of clothing may be one of the reasons for it. Culture of samples from the vaginal contents, followed by microorganisms' identification, can be important.

Candida esophagitis: species distribution and risk factors for infection / Esofagite por Candida: distribuição da espécie e fatores de risco para a infecção

Although Candida albicans is the main cause of fungal esophagitis, other species such as C. tropicalis, C. krusei and C. stellatoidea have also been implicated. Several studies have identified risk factors for C. albicans esophagitis. However, data for non-C. albicans species is still sparse. The aim of this study was to determine the etiology of Candida esophagitis in our medical centre over an 18-month period. Additionally, we aimed to investigate predisposing conditions for esophageal candidosis caused by different Candida species. A total of 21,248 upper gastroscopies were performed in Santa Casa Complexo Hospitalar between January 2005 and July 2006. The prevalence of Candida esophagitis was 0.74 percent (n = 158). C. albicans caused the vast majority of infections (96.2 percent), followed by C. tropicalis (2.5 percent), C. lusitaniae (0.6 percent) and C. glabrata (0.6 percent). There were 81 women (51.3 percent) and 77 men (48.7 percent). No case of mixed infection occurred. Concomitant oral candidosis was documented for 10.8 percent (n = 17). Most of cases (55.1 percent) involved outpatients. Around one fifth of patients in our cohort had no identifiable risk factors for esophageal candidosis (20.8 percent). Since nearly all infections were caused by C. albicans we were not able to determine risk factors for esophagitis caused by other Candida species.

Embora Candida albicans seja a principal causa de esofagite fúngica, outras espécies como C. tropicalis, C. krusei e C. stellatoidea também têm sido implicadas. O objetivo desse estudo foi descrever espécies causadoras de esofagite fúngica em nosso centro durante um período de 18 meses, além de comparar condições predisponentes para candidose esofágica causadas por diferentes espécies de Candida. De janeiro de 2005 a julho de 2006, 21.248 endoscopias digestivas altas foram realizadas no Complexo Hospitalar Santa Casa (Porto Alegre, Brasil). A prevalência de esofagite por Candida foi de 0,74 por cento (n = 158). C. albicans foi a causadora da maioria das infecções (96,2 por cento), seguida por C. tropicalis (2,5 por cento), C. lusitaniae (0,6 por cento) e C. glabrata (0,6 por cento). Candidose oral concomitante foi documentada em 10,8 por cento (n = 17). Cerca de 21 por cento dos pacientes não teve qualquer fator de risco identificável para candidose esofágica. Em função do pequeno número de pacientes infectados por espécies não-Candida albicans, não foi possível determinarmos fatores de risco para estas infecções.

Candida bloodstream infection: data from a teaching hospital in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Infecção na corrente sangüínea por Candida spp. dados de um hospital universitário em Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

The incidence of Candida bloodstream infection has increased over the past years. In the Center-West region of Brazil, data on candidemia are scarce. This paper reports a retrospective analysis of 96 cases of Candida bloodstream infection at a Brazilian tertiary-care teaching hospital in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, from January 1998 to December 2006. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected from medical records and from the hospital's laboratory database. Patients' ages ranged from three days to 92 years, with 53 (55.2 percent) adults and 43 (44.8 percent) children. Of the latter, 25 (58.1 percent) were newborns. The risk conditions most often found were: long period of hospitalization, utilization of venous central catheter, and previous use of antibiotics. Fifty-eight (60.4 percent) patients died during the hospitalization period and eight (13.7 percent) of them died 30 days after the diagnosis of candidemia. Candida albicans (45.8 percent) was the most prevalent species, followed by C. parapsilosis (34.4 percent), C. tropicalis (14.6 percent) and C. glabrata (5.2 percent). This is the first report of Candida bloodstream infection in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul and it highlights the importance of considering the possibility of invasive Candida infection in patients exposed to risk factors, particularly among neonates and the elderly.

A incidência de infecções na corrente sangüínea causada por Candida spp. tem aumentado nos últimos anos. Na região Centro-Oeste do Brasil, os dados sobre candidemia são escassos. Realizamos uma análise retrospectiva de casos de infecção na corrente sangüínea por Candida em um hospital terciário de ensino de Mato Grosso do Sul. Noventa e seis episódios diagnosticados de janeiro de 1998 a dezembro de 2006 foram incluídos no estudo. Os dados demográficos e clínicos foram obtidos de prontuários; os dados laboratoriais provieram de registros do laboratório hospitalar. Dos pacientes, 43 (44,8 por cento) eram crianças e 53 (55,2 por cento) adultos, com idades variando de três dias a 92 anos. Das crianças, 25 (58,1 por cento) eram recém-nascidas. As condições de risco mais encontradas foram: prolongado tempo de internação, uso de cateter venoso central e uso prévio de antibióticos. Cinqüenta e oito (60,4 por cento) pacientes foram a óbito durante a hospitalização e oito (13,7 por cento) deles foram a óbito 30 dias após o diagnóstico de candidemia. Candida albicans (45,8 por cento) foi a espécie mais prevalente seguida por C. parapsilosis (34,4 por cento), C. tropicalis (14,6 por cento) e C. glabrata (5,2 por cento). Esta é a primeira descrição de infecção na corrente sangüínea por espécies de Candida em Mato Grosso do Sul, confirmando a importância da suspeita clínica de infecções invasivas por tais microrganismos na evolução de pacientes expostos a fatores de risco, principalmente no caso de idosos e neonatos.

Burning mouth syndrome: clinical profile of Brazilian patients and oral carriage of candida species

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a complex disease of unknown cause. It is characterized by a burning sensation in the oral mucosa, notwithstanding its clinical normal aspect. BMS is particularly seen in postmenopausal women. The purpose of this study was to investigate this syndrome on a clinical basis and, in addition, to analyze its possible relation to the frequency of Candida species. Thirty-one patients (28 women and 3 men; 13 Caucasians and 18 non-Caucasians; mean age = 61.3, range 30-85 years) were evaluated. Most patients (80.6 percent) were under long-term medication, antihypertensive, ansiolitic and antidepressant drugs being the most used. Burning mouth complaint was associated with other secondary oral complaints in 83.8 percent of the cases. Tongue was the most commonly affected site (70.9 percent), followed by the vermillion border of the lower lip (38.7 percent) and hard palate (32.2 percent). The association of the burning sensation with oral cancer (cancer phobia) was reported by 67.7 percent of the patients. Haematologic examination (hematocrit, haemoglobin and fasting blood glucose level) revealed 2 cases each of anemia and type 2 diabetes. Local factors, tooth extractions and dentures wearing, were associated with the onset of symptoms in 35.5 percent of the cases. Daily activities were changed as a consequence of BMS in 29 percent of the patients. Among the species of the genus Candida, C. albicans was the most frequent in BMS patients (9 - 29.03 percent) and controls (12 - 38.70 percent), followed respectively by C. parapsilosis (2 - 6.45 percent and 0 - 0 percent); C. tropicalis (1 - 3.22 percent and 2 - 6.45 percent); C. krusei and C. kefyr (1 - 3.22 percent and 0 - 0 percent). Therefore, such difference did not reach valuable results. In conclusion, these data were similar to those reported in other studies. The highlights of the present findings were the possible relation of BMS with chronic drug...

A Síndrome de ardência bucal (SAB) é uma doença complexa, de etiologia desconhecida. Caracteriza-se por uma sensação de queimação na mucosa bucal, não obstante seu aspecto clínico normal, sendo bastante freqüente em mulheres após a menopausa. O propósito deste estudo foi o de investigar a SAB em bases clínicas e, em adição, analisar sua possível relação com a freqüência de espécies do gênero Candida isoladas da cavidade bucal desses indivíduos. Foram estudados trinta e um pacientes, 28 mulheres e 3 homens, 13 caucasianos e 18 não caucasianos, média de idade 61,3 (faixa dos 30 - 85 anos). A maioria deles (80,6 por cento) estava sob medicação por longo período. Anti-hipertensivos, ansioliticos e antidepressivos foram as drogas mais utilizadas. A ardência bucal estava associada a outras queixas secundárias em 83,8 por cento dos pacientes. A língua foi o sítio mais afetado (70,9 por cento), seguida pelo vermelhão do lábio inferior (38,7 por cento) e palato duro (32,2 por cento). A associação de sensação de ardência com câncer bucal (cancerofobia) foi referida por 67,7 por cento dos pacientes. Exames hematológicos (hematócrito, hemoglobina e glicemia em jejum) revelaram dois casos cada, de anemia e diabetes tipo 2. Fatores locais, exodontias, e uso de próteses estavam associados com o conjunto de sintomas em 35,5 por cento dos casos. Foram referidas alterações importantes nas atividades cotidianas, em conseqüência da SAB, em 29 por cento dos pacientes. Leveduras do gênero Candida foram isoladas da cavidade bucal de 45,16 por cento dos indivíduos com SAB e igualmente do grupo-controle, não constituindo dado qualitativamente importante. Dentre as espécies do Gênero Candida, C. albicans foi a mais freqüente (9 - 29,03 por cento e 12 - 38,70 por cento), seguida de C. parapsilosis (2 - 6,45 por cento e 0 - 0 por cento), C. tropicalis (1 - 3,22 por cento e 2 - 6,45 por cento), C. krusei e C. kefyr (1 - 3,22 por cento e 0 - 0 por cento). Em conclusão, nossos...

Candidemia in a Brazilian hospital: the importance of Candida parapsilosis

O presente estudo objetivou desenvolver uma análise retrospectiva de casos de candidemia em hospital brasileiro na cidade de Fortaleza, Ceará. Um total de 50 hemoculturas foram analisadas de 40 pacientes com quadros de candidemia. O diagnóstico micológico foi baseado na análise morfológica e bioquímica e os dados dos pacientes foram coletados das histórias clínicas. As espécies mais freqüentes foram Candida parapsilosis (n = 18), seguida por C. albicans (n = 14), C. tropicalis (n = 8), C. guillermondii (n = 6), C. glabrata (n = 2) e Candida spp. (n = 2). Um estudo descritivo foi realizado com apenas 21 pacientes os quais possuíam dados clínicos completos. Os episódios de candidemia aconteceram em oito pacientes do sexo masculino e 13 do feminino. Os fatores de risco implicados em candidemia foram antibioticoterapia prévia, uso de cateter venoso central, nutrição parenteral, sondagem gástrica e ventilação mecânica. A morte aconteceu em 13 dos 21 pacientes com candidemia. Este estudo demonstrou a emergência de candidemia causada por C. parapsilosis em um hospital brasileiro na cidade de Fortaleza, Ceará.

Candida colonization in intensive care unit patients' urine

The objective of this study was to identify possible predisposing factors for candiduria in intensive care unit (ICU) patients from Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil, during one year. Urine samples from 153 ICU patients were obtained by catheterization on admission day and every seven days. Data such as sex, age, antifungal therapy, and variables as antibiotics, underlying diseases or comorbid conditions and stay in the hospital, were collected from patients who had at least one urine culture that yielded > 10³ yeast colonies/ml. Candiduria was recovered in 68 patients and the commonest predisposing factors were antibiotic therapy (100 percent) and indwelling urinary catheter (92.6 percent). The percentage of Candida spp. isolation increased during the extended periods in which patients remained in the ICU. C. albicans was isolated in 69.1 percent, and the other species non-albicans as C. glabrata, C. kefyr, C. parapsilosis, C. famata, C. guilliermondii, C. krusei, and C. tropicalis were isolated in lower percentage. The high frequency of candiduria and the possible predisposing factors found in ICU patients show that candiduria surveillance should be performed to help reducing nosocomial infections.

Prevalence, susceptibility profile for fluconazole and risk factors for candidemia in a tertiary care hospital in southern Brazil

Bloodstream infections caused by yeast, Candida spp, are quite important clinically and epidemiologically due to a high mortality rate and an increasing number of non-albicans species with a more resistant (differentiated susceptibility) profile. We examined species prevalence and susceptibility profile for fluconazole and the risk for nosocomial infections by Candida spp at the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, a general tertiary care hospital in southern Brazilian, through a retrospective study, beginning with positive cultures of hospitalized patients. The distribution by species in 131 documented episodes was as follows: Candida albicans (45 percent), C. parapsilosis (24.4 percent), C. tropicalis (15.3 percent), C. glabrata (6.9 percent), C. krusei (4.6 percent) and 3.8 percent other species (C. pelicullosa, C. guilliermondii, C. lusitaniae and C. kefyr). The vast majority of samples (121- 92.4 percent) were susceptible to fluconazole; the resistant or dose-dependent sensitive samples included only C. krusei and C. glabrata. Blood diseases (leukemia, lymphoma), or neoplasias (solid tumors), were found in 35.0 percent of the candidemia episodes. We noted the previous use of antibiotics in 128 (97.7 percent) patients, with 79.7 percent using three or more antibiotics before the candidemia episode. Other risk factors included a central venous catheter in 94 (71.8 percent) and abdominal surgery in 32 (24.4 percent) patients. The overall mortality rate was 51.9 percent, which varied according to the underlying disease. We found that C. albicans was the most prevalent species, although the non-albicans species predominated. However, in vitro resistance to fluconazole was detected only among the species (C. glabrata and C. krusei) that tend to be resistant to the azolic compounds. Previous use of antibiotic and the use of a central venous catheter were the main risk factors among patients with candidemia.

Candidiasis esofágica: análisis clínico y micológico / Oesophageal candidiasis: clinical and mycological analysis

Oesophageal candidiasis is an epithelial infection which requires an immune deficiency. C. albicans is commonly the cause, although other species may also be responsible. Resistance to fluconazole, drug of choice for treatment, is an emerging problem. The objectives of the current paper were: to determine the frequency of oesophageal candidiasis in patients submitted to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, analyze risk factors, identify Candida species and determine in vitro susceptibility to fluconazole. During 12 months, 34 patients with oesophageal candidiasis were detected. Out of 1.230 HIV negative and 91 HIV positive patients submitted to upper endoscopy, 11 (0.9%) and 23 (25.3%), respectively, had candidiasis. Risk factors for HIV negative patients were systemic antibiotic therapy in 2, deficient dental cleaning in 2 aged patients, use of proton pump inhibitors in 3, inhaled steroids in 2, malignancy in 1 and oral steroids in 1. The histopathologic diagnosis was confirmed in 48.6% of cases. Cultures were positive in 91.2% C. albicans was prevalent (93.5%), and was associated to other species in 5 cases (16.1%), (3 C. glabrata, 1 C. tropicalis and 1 C. parapsilosis). One case cultured only C. glabrata and 1, only C tropicalis. Out of 31 cultures, 25 were susceptible to fluconazole, 4 dose dependent (1 C. albicans, 3 C. glabrata), and 2 resistant (1 C. albicans, 1 C. glabrata). Frequency of oesophageal candidiasis was low, except for HIV positive patients. The most common etiologic agent was C. albicans, though other Candida species were also found. C. albicans and C. glabrata showed dose dependency and resistance to fluconazole.

La candidiasis esofágica es una infección epitelial querequiere un defecto adicional inmunitario. Candida albicans es la especie más frecuente, aunque puedenencontrarse otras. Un problema emergente es la resistenciaal fluconazol, droga de elección para tratarla. Los objetivos fueron: determinar la frecuencia de candidiasisesofágica en pacientes sometidos a endoscopía, analizar los factores predisponentes, identificar las especiescausantes, y estudiar la sensibilidad in vitro al fluconazol. Durante 12 meses se realizaron 1.321 endoscopíasdonde se detectaron 34 pacientes con candidiasis esofágica. Se hicieron 1.230 endoscopías en pacientes HIV negativos y 91 en HIV positivos. Se diagnosticó candidiasis esofágica en 11 (0.9%) y 23(25.3%), respectivamente. En HIV negativos, fueron causas predisponentes: antibioticoterapia prolongada, prótesis dentarias sin higiene, uso prolongado de inhibidoresde la bomba de protones, secreción ácida, corticoides inhalatorios, malignidad y vasculitis bajo corticoterapia. La histopatología fue positiva en 48.6%. El cultivo se desarrolló en el 91.2%. C. albicans fue laespecie más frecuente (93.5%) y en 5 pacientes (16.1%) se la encontró asociada a C. glabrata (3) C. tropicalis (1) y C. parapsilosis (1). En un caso solo se cultivó C. glabrata y en otro C. tropicalis. De las 31 cepas, 25 fueron sensibles al fluconazol, 4 dosis dependientes (1 C. albicans, 3 C. glabrata), y 2 resistentes(1 C. albicans, 1 C. glabrata). En nuestro hospital, la frecuencia de candidiasis esofágica fue baja, excepto enHIV positivos. El principal agente etiológico fue C. alalbicans,aunque también se cultivaron otras especies. C. albicans y C. glabrata mostraron dosis dependencia yresistencia al fluconazol.

Líquido cefalorraqueano em infecçäo do sistema nervoso central por leveduras do gênero candida: análise de 11 casos / Cerebrospinal fluid in central nervous system by Candida infection: analyses of 11 cases

Foram estudadas 44 amostras de líqüido cefalorraqueano (LCR) de 11 pacientes em que foi possível fazer diagnóstico etiológico de comprometimento do sistema nervoso central (SNC) por leveduras do gênero Candida. Todos os pacientes apresentavam fatores de risco para a afecçäo. Cinco apresentavam quadro de meningite crónica e esclarecer; dois, síndrome de imunodeficiência adquirida; dois, traumatismo crânioencefálico seguido de meningite crônica; um, coagulaçäo intravascular disseminada seguida de spticemia; um, candidíase sistêmica pós-transplante renal. O diagnóstico etiológico foi feito pelo exame do LCR, possibilitando em 9 o isolamento da levedura por crescimento em meio de cultura. Em dois o diagnóstico foi feito pela presença das leveduras ao exame direto e, em um deles, também pela positividade da reaçäo de fixaçäo de complemento para Candida realizada em três amostras sucessivas de LCR. Discute-se a importância das alteraçöes encontradas no exame do LCR na candidíase do SNC