Untreated yeast infection
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Untreated Yeast Infections: Risks and Implications
Overview of Yeast Infections
Yeast infections, primarily caused by Candida species, are common fungal infections that can affect various parts of the body, including the gastrointestinal, urinary, and respiratory tracts. Candida albicans is the most prevalent species, but non-albicans species like Candida glabrata and Candida krusei are also significant, especially due to their resistance to common antifungal treatments .
Emerging Opportunistic Yeast Infections
The rise in immunocompromised patients has led to an increase in opportunistic yeast infections. Non-albicans Candida species, such as Candida glabrata and Candida krusei, are becoming more common and often exhibit resistance to azole antifungal therapy . Other rare yeasts, including Trichosporon, Rhodotorula, and Malassezia, are also emerging as significant pathogens, particularly in severely immunosuppressed individuals 136. These infections are challenging to diagnose and treat, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach .
Risks of Untreated Yeast Infections
Untreated yeast infections can lead to severe complications, especially in immunocompromised patients. For instance, Trichosporon species are the second most common cause of fungaemia in patients with hematological malignancies and are associated with poor prognosis due to their resistance to amphotericin and echinocandins . Similarly, Rhodotorula species can cause catheter-related fungaemia, sepsis, and invasive disease in severely immunosuppressed patients .
Diagnostic Challenges
Diagnosing yeast infections can be complex. Traditional cultures of blood and other sterile sites are commonly used, but they may not always be effective. Serum (1,3)-β-D-glucan testing can serve as an adjunctive diagnostic tool . The diagnosis of candidiasis, in particular, can be complicated due to its multifactorial nature and the variety of causal factors involved .
Treatment and Management
The treatment of yeast infections, especially those caused by rare or resistant species, is often suboptimal. For example, amphotericin B-resistant yeast infections are a significant concern in severely immunocompromised patients, leading to high mortality rates . The choice of antifungal treatment depends on several factors, including the patient's immune status, the specific yeast species involved, and its susceptibility pattern .
Conclusion
Untreated yeast infections pose significant risks, particularly for immunocompromised individuals. The increasing incidence of non-albicans Candida species and other rare yeasts, coupled with their resistance to common antifungal treatments, underscores the need for improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to managing these infections and improving patient outcomes.
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