EMERGING RISK OF INVASIVE FUNGAL INFECTIONS: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Emerging invasive fungal infections represent a significant threat to human health, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Pathogens such as Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida auris, Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus have the capacity to cause serious infections, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Resistance to antifungal drugs and the spread in hospital environments increase the risk of these infections. Early and accurate diagnosis, with infection prevention and control measures, are key to improving clinical outcomes. The development of new antifungal therapies and raising awareness about the importance of hygiene and the appropriate use of antifungals are essential to meet the challenges of invasive fungal infections. The aim of this study was to carry out an integrative review of the literature related to invasive fungal infections, elucidating which are the critical class microorganisms and correlated cases, as well as diagnosis and treatment. After searching the data platforms, 17 were selected and displayed in a table of results. In view of the above, it is clear that these infections grow every year, in addition to the risks due to high morbidity and mortality, these agents have different mechanisms of resistance and transmission, causing problems for public and economic health, and future research is needed in an attempt to minimize the impact that these infections cause.