Evaluation of a Candida PCR Diagnosis Strategy to Reduce Result Time in ICU Patients With Suspected Systemic Invasive Candidiasis

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate a new method for diagnosing invasive candidiasis, a serious yeast infection, in patients in intensive care units. The study focuses on how this new PCR technique affects the time needed to get diagnostic results compared to the current blood culture method. Researchers hope this faster method will support earlier changes in antifungal treatment, potentially reducing resistance and lowering treatment costs. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will receive the standard diagnostic approach using blood cultures, and the other will be diagnosed using the new PCR method targeting Candida glabrata and krusei species. Both groups initially receive treatment with echinocandins. For those in the PCR group, an early switch to fluconazole is made if the PCR test is negative. This approach aims to improve treatment decisions and reduce delays. During the study, patients will be monitored at 14 and 28 days after diagnosis and until discharge or for up to 3 months if still hospitalized. Researchers will collect blood samples for both blood culture and PCR testing, track the timing of diagnostic results, monitor treatment changes, and record outcomes such as mortality. The study measures how quickly results are returned and the impact on antifungal treatment choices and patient survival.

Candida PCR Diagnosis Strategy in Patients From Intensive Care Units