SPECTRUM, RISK FACTORS, AND CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF FUNGAL INFECTIONS IN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENTS: A HOSPITAL-BASED STUDY FROM NORTH INDIA

Abstract

Background: Fungal infections are a growing cause of morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised individuals, especially in hospital settings. Increasing use of immunosuppressive therapies, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and invasive procedures has contributed to the rising burden of these infections.

Objectives: To evaluate the spectrum of fungal infections, identify associated risk factors, and assess clinical outcomes among immunocompromised patients in a tertiary care hospital in North India.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted from January 2022 to June 2022, including 74 immunocompromised patients with suspected fungal infections. Data were collected using a structured proforma, and clinical specimens were processed using standard microbiological techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20.0, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The majority of patients were above 50 years of age, with a male predominance. Diabetes mellitus (29.7%) and malignancy (24.3%) were the most common underlying conditions. Candida albicans (37.8%) was the most frequently isolated pathogen, followed by non-albicans Candida (27.0%) and Aspergillus species (18.9%). Significant risk factors included broad-spectrum antibiotic use (64.9%, p = 0.01), ICU stay (54.1%, p = 0.03), indwelling catheterization (48.6%, p = 0.04), and mechanical ventilation (29.7%, p = 0.05). The majority of patients recovered (67.6%), while the mortality rate was 18.9%.

Conclusion: Fungal infections in immunocompromised patients are associated with identifiable risk factors and considerable mortality. Early diagnosis, rational antibiotic use, and effective infection control measures are essential to improve patient outcomes.