Abstract

Children with candidemia infections

Author(s): Christiana Williams

Invasive fungal infections, especially candidemia, are more likely in children who are critically ill or immunocompromised. Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis are the two most common causes of candidemia in children. Candidaemia puts children at a higher risk of morbidity and mortality, as well as lengthier hospital stays and higher healthcare costs. Candidaemia risk factors can be used to identify patients who are candidates for empiric therapy. Long-term ICU stays, immunosuppression, prior bacterial infection, and recent surgery are all risk factors, as is the use of a central venous catheter, mechanical ventilation, and/or total parenteral nutrition. According to new guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America, fluconazole or an echinocandin should be considered for empiric therapy in suitable candidates, with an echinocandin being preferred in patients with moderateto-severe disease, recent azole exposure, or a high risk of Candida glabrata or Candida krusei infection.