Fungal vs. Bacterial Infections in Patients with Ventricular-Assist Devices

Fungal infections are less common but more deadly than their bacterial counterparts.

Ventricular-assist devices (VAD) are increasingly used for the management of end-stage heart failure. However, infection is a common complication. Bacteria are the most frequent cause of such infections, but fungal infections are not uncommon and have been associated with higher mortality rates.

To better understand the epidemiology of these infections, researchers reviewed the medical records of 300 patients who received VADs at a Houston hospital between 1992 and 2007. A total of 108 of these patients (36%) developed infections, 23 of which were fungal, all caused by Candida species. Total parenteral nutrition was the only factor independently associated with fungal versus bacterial infection (P=0.007). The use of antifungal prophylaxis wa…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)