Recommendations for the diagnosis of candidemia in Latin America

Abstract

tCandidemia is one of the most frequent opportunistic mycoses worldwide. Limited epidemiologicalstudies in Latin America indicate that incidence rates are higher in this region than in the NorthernHemisphere. Diagnosis is often made late in the infection, affecting the initiation of antifungal therapy.A more scientific approach, based on specific parameters, for diagnosis and management of candidemiain Latin America is warranted.‘Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of candidemia’ are a series of manuscripts thathave been developed by members of the Latin America Invasive Mycosis Network. They aim to providea set of best-evidence recommendations for the diagnosis and management of candidemia.This publication, ‘Recommendations for the diagnosis of candidemia in Latin America’, was written toprovide guidance to healthcare professionals on the diagnosis of candidemia, as well as on the usefulnessand application of susceptibility testing in patients who have a confirmed diagnosis of candidemia.Computerized searches of existing literature were performed by PubMed. The data were extensivelyreviewed and analyzed by members of the group. The group also met on two occasions to pose questions,discuss conflicting views, and deliberate on a series of management recommendations.‘Recommendations for the diagnosis of candidemia in Latin America’ includes diagnostic methods used todetect candidemia, Candida species identification, and susceptibility testing. The availability of methods,their costs and treatment settings are considered.This manuscript is the first of this series that deals with diagnosis and treatment of invasive candidiasis.Other publications in this series include: ‘Recommendations for the management of candidemia in adultsin Latin America’, ‘Recommendations for the management of candidemia in children in Latin America’,and ‘Recommendations for the management of candidemia in neonates in Latin America’.