Candidemia in cancer: A retrospective analysis of risk profiles, treatment approaches and outcomes in critical and non-critical care settings
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61529/idjp.v35i1.431Abstract
Background: Candidemia is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. This study aimed to compare the clinical characteristics, species distribution, risk factors, complications, and outcomes of candidemia between intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU settings
Material and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care oncology hospital in Lahore over a three-year period (January 2020–December 2022). A total of 175 cancer patients with blood culture–confirmed candidemia were included. Patients were stratified into ICU and non-ICU groups to compare demographic characteristics, species distribution, risk factors, complications, and clinical outcomes.
Results: Candida tropicalis (40.6%) was the most frequently isolated species, followed by Candida albicans (34.3%). Common risk factors included recent antibiotic use (98.3%) and central venous catheterization (72%). ICU patients were significantly older (median age 42 vs. 26 years, p = 0.007) and experienced higher in-hospital mortality (77.3% vs. 43.1%, p < 0.001). No particular Candida species was associated with increased mortality. Recent chemotherapy within 14 days was significantly linked to higher mortality (p = 0.045).
Conclusion: Candidemia in cancer patients is associated with high mortality, particularly among ICU admissions. The predominance of non-albicans species and adverse outcomes in critically ill patients emphasize the need for early recognition and timely, targeted antifungal therapy.
Keywords: Antifungal therapy, Cancer, Candidemia, Intensive care unit, Mortality, Non-albicans Candida
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