Habighorst et al reported risk factors for intra-abdominal candidiasis. These can help to identify a patient at high risk who may benefit from antifungal therapy. The authors are from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
Patient selection: age > 18 years with positive culture from fluid collected intra-operatively or from an abdominal drain placed within 24 hours
Note: for cultures to be taken there must have been some indication of intra-abdominal infection
Exclusion: peritoneal dialysis or transfer from outside hospital
Risk factors for intra-abdominal candidiasis:
(1) exposure to corticosteroids (OR 5.8)
(2) upper gastrointestinal tract surgery (OR 3.5)
(3) mechanical ventilation (OR 3.1)
The risk of intra-abdominal Candidiasis increases with the number of risk factors present.
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