FUNGI IN SKIN AND SOFT TISSUE INFECTIONS - A THREE-YEAR STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Exposure of subcutaneous tissue following a loss of skin integrity provides a suitable environment for microbial colonization and proliferation, which contributes to delayed healing and infection of the wound. The aim of this study was to retrospectively investigate the spectrum of fungi responsible for skin and soft tissue infections over a 3-year period, and to compare the results with those from other parts of the world. Material and methods: The study was performed during a 3-year period (2017-2019) and included analysis of 11 863 wound samples, which were obtained from patients hospitalized at the University Clinics of the “Mother Theresa” campus, City hospital ”8th September” and University Clinic for Surgical Diseases “St. Naum Ohridski” in Skopje. All specimens were analyzed by standard mycological methods at the Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology. Results: Growth of fungi was confirmed in 5.5%, 5% and 6.2% of the positive specimens, during a 3-year period, respectively. C.albicans was the predominant yeast (67.6%, 63%, 63.2% in 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively). Molds were represented by Aspergillus confirmed in 3, 4 and 5 specimens, and Fusarium was confirmed in 2, 3 and 3 specimens during the 3-year period respectively. Mucor was detected in 3 patients, in 2019 only. Conclusion: Species identification of fungal microbes in wound specimens revealed that Candida species was the most predominant species, followed by Aspergillus and non-Aspergillus molds. It is crucial for every institution that treats patients with wounds to be aware of fungi as possible etiological agents of wound infections.