Isolation of Fungi in Blood Cultures: A Review of Fungal Infections in the Western Part of Sweden 1970–1982

Abstract

Relevant data were analysed from 185 patients treated for various diseases in the Göteborg area, Sweden, between 1970 and 1982 and in whom fungi were isolated in blood cultures. The increase in isolations during the first part of the study seemed to coincide with extended use of central venous catheters. However, with greater awareness of factors contributing to yeast colonization, the annual incidence fell during the latter part of the period. A disseminated fungal infection was found in 45% of cases, with a mortality of 58%. 4/42 patients with transient fungemia died; 3 from concomitant bacterial septicemia. The mortality rate was 30% in patients with antimycotic treatment because of disseminated infection. Candida albicans, followed by C. glabrata, were the most commonly isolated strains (70% and 13%, respectively). C. albicans predominated in patients with fungal endophthalmitis (100%) and in neonatal infections (95%).