Invasive Fungal Infections Common In MDS And AML Patients

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients are at risk of invasive fungal infection (IFI). “IFI’s are defined as systemic infections resulting from the establishment of yeasts or molds in deep-seated tissues.” They can be severe and even fatal. These infections require prompt treatment. Over half of all IFI’s occur after induction chemotherapy.

Risks For Developing an IFI

• Those treated with hypomethylating agents (HMA): a class of drugs that reprograms tumor cells.
• Patients who received azacitidine (AZA) or decitabine (DAC).
• The presence of an intravenous catheter during treatment.
• Patients who are neutropenic: low in the type of white blood cell that fights infection.
• Those who are immunocompromised.

What Are The Most Common IFI’s?

PNEUMONIA: accounts for 40% of infections in patients.

CANDIDA: a fungal infection caused by yeast. Aspergillus species, Cryptococcus species, Pneumocystis species are a few examples.

MOLD OR FUNGAL: can cause severe infections in immunocompromised patients. Blastomyces, Histoplasma, Paracoccidioides, and Coccidioides are a few examples.

“Nearly 70% of all IFIs in the world are caused by invasive candidiasis (IC), followed by cryptococcosis (20%) and aspergillosis (10%).”

Prevention And Treatment

An individualized approach is necessary to treat any IFI. Even if a patient does not show significant signs of infection, a doctor may prescribe a preventative medication: posaconazole, fluconazole, itraconazole, or voriconazole.

IFIs can spread to other parts of the body. It is vital to get a quick and accurate diagnosis. Seek medical intervention if you experience any of the following:

• Unexplained fever.
• Skin lesions.
• Congestion, runny nose, shortness of breath.
• Coughing or coughing up blood.
• Muscle aches or fatigue.

The End Result

IFI’s are common for MDS or AML patients. Both the disease and chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, which allows an IFI to grow. Fortunately, there are medications to help treat these infections. Keep in close communication with your doctor to monitor your immune system.

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