2 research outputs found
Mapping the path to excellence: Evaluation of the diagnostic and treatment tools for invasive fungal infections in the balkans
No full textBackground: In the Balkans, rising concerns about invasive fungal infections over the past decade stem from various factors. Primarily, there has been a notable uptick in immunocompromised individuals, including those with chronic illnesses like immunological and hematological diseases. Thus, it is essential to assess the region's laboratory capabilities and the availability of antifungals. This evaluation is vital for gauging the preparedness to diagnose and treat fungal infections effectively, thus minimizing their public health impact. Methods: Data were collected via an online questionnaire targeting healthcare professionals specializing in relevant fields across diverse healthcare settings in Balkan countries. The survey covered various aspects, including diagnostic methods, imaging techniques, and available antifungal armamentarium. Results: Responses were obtained from 50 institutions across the Balkans. While conventional diagnostic methods like microscopy (96 %) and culture (100 %) diagnostics were widely available, access to newer diagnostic tools such as molecular assays (61 %) were limited, often relying on outsourced services. Imaging modalities like ultrasound (100 %) and CT scans (93 %) were universally accessible. A variety of antifungal drugs were available, including amphotericin B formulations (80 %), echinocandins (79 %), and triazoles (100 %). However, access to newer agents like posaconazole (62 %) and isavuconazole (45 %) was inconsistent. Therapeutic drug monitoring (53 %) services were also limited. Conclusion: The study underscores the need for equitable access to diagnostic facilities and antifungal treatments across healthcare settings in the Balkan geographic region. Improving access to molecular diagnostic tools and essential antifungal drugs, as well as implementing therapeutic drug monitoring, would optimize the management of fungal infections in the region
Elevating fungal care: bridging Brazil’s healthcare practices to global standards
No full textBrazil faces unique challenges in managing invasive fungal infections (IFIs) due to diverse ecosystems, a rural workforce, and prevalent health conditions. In Europe, IFIs are primarily associated with transplantation, intensive care, and chronic diseases. Inspired by initiatives in the Caribbean and Latin America in 2019, efforts to map global diagnostic and treatment resources expanded to Africa, Europe, and Asia/Pacific. This study conducts a comparative analysis, mainly drawing data from Brazil and Europe, to investigate IFI epidemiology and management. Data were collected through online surveys distributed to Brazilian and European institutions, with collaborations from scientific organizations. Surveys covered institutional profiles, IFI diagnoses, accessibil ity to diagnostic techniques, and antifungal drugs. A comparative survey involving 96 Brazilian and 388 European institutions revealed variations in the perception and practices related to fungal pathogens. Differences in ranking and prevalence were observed, along with variations in diagnostic procedures, fluorescence dye usage, culture practices, antifungal medication availability, and technological approaches. Europe exhibited higher utilization rates for molecular diagnostic approaches, including PCR tests, and therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) was more widespread in Europe compared with Brazil, indicating substantial differences in understanding and managing fungal infections. Customized IFI management is crucial, considering regional differences and addressing technological gaps like underutilized PCR. The study advocates for increased international collaboration, targeted training, and enhanced resources to foster a unified global approach in preventing, diagnosing, and treating IFI
