Fungal infections associated with long-term mechanical circulatory support-diagnosis and management

J Card Surg. 2014 Jan;29(1):95-100. doi: 10.1111/jocs.12258. Epub 2013 Nov 27.

Abstract

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are increasingly used as a treatment option for advanced heart failure. Fungal infections present a serious concern given the high association with major adverse events including death in this group of patients. The objective of this review is to summarize the incidence, risk factors, method for diagnosis, complication rate, and outcomes in patients with VADs who develop fungal infections.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / administration & dosage
  • Aspergillosis
  • Candidiasis
  • Fluconazole / administration & dosage
  • Heart Failure / therapy
  • Heart-Assist Devices / adverse effects*
  • Heart-Assist Devices / microbiology*
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Mycoses / diagnosis
  • Mycoses / epidemiology
  • Mycoses / etiology*
  • Mycoses / therapy
  • Pyrimidines / administration & dosage
  • Risk Factors
  • Time Factors
  • Triazoles / administration & dosage
  • Voriconazole

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Pyrimidines
  • Triazoles
  • Fluconazole
  • Voriconazole