Hyperbaric oxygen in the treatment of invasive fungal infections: a single-center experience.
BACKGROUND
Invasive fungal infections by Mucorales or Aspergillus spp. are lethal infections in immune compromised patients. For these infections a multimodal approach is required. One potential tool for treating these infections is hyperbaric oxygen.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the clinical course and utility of hyperbaric oxygen in patients with invasive fungal infections by Mucorales or Aspergillus spp.


METHODS
We conducted a retrospective chart review of 14 patients treated with HBO as part of their multimodal therapy over a 12 year period.


RESULTS
Most patients had significant immune suppression due to either drug treatment or their underlying disorder. Thirteen of the 14 underwent surgery as part of the treatment and all were receiving antifungal therapy while treated with the hyperbaric oxygen. The number of HBO sessions ranged between 1 and 44. Seven of the patients survived the infection. No patient developed complications due to HBO therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
HBO is a potentially significant adjunct in the treatment of invasive fungal infections. Evidence on its usefulness as a standard of care in these infections is still lacking. Since it will be difficult to generate conclusive data regarding the importance of HBO in these infections, the value of HBO in these patients should be considered on an individual basis.
Segal
Eran
E
General Intensive Care Unit, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. e_segal@sheba.health.gov.il
Menhusen
Monty J
MJ
Shawn
Simmons
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001228:Aspergillosis / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D002648:Child; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006931:Hyperbaric Oxygenation; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009091:Mucormycosis / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D012189:Retrospective Studies
D000935:Antifungal Agents