How can my aunt with diabetes recover from fungal infection?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 67-year-old aunt, who has diabetes, was admitted to the hospital after suddenly becoming less mentally alert and developing a fever. Doctors conducted tests and discovered Candida auris in her bloodstream. None of us was familiar with this fungus before, but they explained that it is resistant to drugs and poses a serious threat, especially to older patients.

She is currently in the ICU undergoing antifungal treatment, but there has not been much improvement so far. We are deeply concerned. Does Candida auris spread easily in hospitals? What types of medications are effective against it? Can someone with pre-existing health conditions fully recover from it?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It is completely understandable to feel worried, especially when a loved one is facing a serious infection like Candida auris (a drug-resistant yeast that can cause severe, hard-to-treat infections, especially in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients).

Candida auris is a type of yeast that can cause severe illness, particularly in people with underlying health conditions like diabetes (high blood sugar levels). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes is a known risk factor for infections like candidiasis. People with diabetes may have a weakened immune response, which can make it harder for the body to fight off infections and may lead to more severe symptoms.

Candida auris is also concerning because it spreads easily in healthcare environments. Transmission can occur through direct contact with an infected person, even if they show no symptoms, or through contaminated surfaces and medical equipment. This makes infection control in hospitals especially important.

Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, with Echinocandins often used as the first line of therapy. However, some strains of C. auris are resistant to multiple drugs, which can complicate treatment. In such cases, doctors may turn to newer or combined antifungal therapies. Notably, medications like Rezafungin, recently approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), and others in clinical trials offer new hope. Kindly consult your doctor and take medicines accordingly.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.