Work

The looming threat of invasive fungal infections in heart transplant recipients: Will it be the last of us

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Patients with mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices and those who undergo heart transplant are at risk for invasive fungal infections (IFI). Though Candida and Aspergillus spp. account for most infections, the evolving epidemiology of resistant- Candida spp . such as C. auris, endemic mycoses, and other molds, impacted by climate change, threaten MCS and transplant patients. Fungal diagnostics are overall limited and current, widely used, antifungal agents are suboptimal with significant toxicities. However, innovative diagnostic strategies coupled with novel antifungal agents for prevention and treatment of invasive fungal disease, encourage optimism for MCS and transplant patients and clinicians.

Source: JHLT Open

DOI: 10.1016/j.jhlto.2026.100482

Authors: Adam Lowe, S. Travis King, Jonathan Hand

Institutions: University of Arizona College of Medicine- Phoenix, Ochsner Health System, The University of Queensland, Ochsner Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Antifungal resistance and susceptibility

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,500