MANAGEMENT OF DEEP CANDIDA INFECTION IN SURGICAL AND INTENSIVE-CARE UNIT PATIENTS

Deep Candida infections are increasing in incidence, especially in non-neutropenic, intensive care patients including neonates. The attributable mortality of candidaemia and candida peritonitis is 37-38% with a 57% overall mortality. The BSAC set up a working party to develop recommendations for management in the absence of controlled trials. These recommendations focus on the role of the microbiology laboratory, management strategies, the respective roles of amphotericin B, flucytosine and fluconazole and long-term maintenance therapy. The indications for initiation of therapy are given special consideration.