The other fungi: it's not just Candida albicans anymore.
BACKGROUND
Candida albicans continues to be the fungus most often causing disease in surgical patients, but with the treatment of an increasing number of critically ill and immunosuppressed patients, other candidal and non-candidal fungal pathogens are becoming more common.


METHODS
Review of current practice and guidelines.


RESULTS
The presentation and management of non-C. albicans fungal infections differs depending on the genus and species. The availability of newer anti-fungal agents has in many cases improved outcomes or decreased toxicities associated with these diseases.


CONCLUSIONS
Although such infections are still relatively uncommon, a working knowledge of infections with non-C. albicans fungi may be beneficial for surgeons, who are likely to encounter such patients both primarily and in consultation. Prompt recognition and treatment of these diseases should improve outcomes.
Saalwachter
Alison R
AR
Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22901, USA.
Hedrick
Traci
T
Sawyer
Robert G
RG
D003428:Cross Infection / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009181:Mycoses / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative