[Nosocomial aspergillosis: epidemiology and control]

Abstract

In the last three decades, in accordance with the increase in the number of immunocompromised patients and their prolonged life-span, the incidence of Aspergillus infections has increased. Furthermore, in addition to immunocompromised patients, an increase in the incidence of aspergillosis was also detected in patients hospitalised in intensive care units and in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Although aspergillosis can be acquired in the community, a considerable number of the cases is healthcare-associated. The primary route of Aspergillus acquisition is via inhalation, however, entry through gastrointestinal tract or damaged skin may also be possible. Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus are the most common species isolated from healthcare-associated infections. The clinical spectrum of the infection includes respiratory, cutaneous, sinusal and rhino-cerebral manifestations. Since clinical signs are not specific and diagnosis and treatment present difficulties, prevention of health-care associated aspergillosis is of special importance. In this review article, the epidemiology and control of nosocomial aspergillosis have been discussed.