Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My 68-year-old mother is currently in the burn unit after sustaining 30 % burns from a house fire. The hospital informed me that she has tested positive for Candida auris and will be moved to isolation. Given her compromised skin barrier and diabetes, I am deeply concerned about the severity of this fungal infection. The nurse mentioned that it is resistant to most medications, which is alarming.
Could you please clarify how serious this infection is in her case? What specific questions should we be asking regarding her treatment plan? Additionally, will this diagnosis affect the timing of her skin grafting surgery, which was scheduled for tomorrow? Her immune system is already weakened due to the burns, and I am uncertain about what to expect or how best to support her through this complication. Please help.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have reviewed your query and understand your concern.
Candida auris (C. auris) is an emerging, multidrug-resistant yeast that poses a significant global health threat. It is known for causing severe infections, particularly in hospitalized patients and nursing home residents, due to its ability to spread easily in healthcare settings.
The first-line treatment for C. auris infections typically involves antifungal medications known as echinocandins. However, some strains have developed resistance to both echinocandins and fluconazole, leaving limited treatment options. In such cases, Amphotericin B may be used, but it carries a higher risk of toxicity, especially in critically ill patients.
Given the presence of an active infection, your surgeon may decide to postpone the graft procedure until the infection has been adequately managed. Performing surgery during an active infection can increase the risk of complications, including the development of infections at the surgical site.
I hope this information addresses your concerns.
Kindly revert so I can assist you further.
Thank you.
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