Predisposing factors of systemic fungal infections of the genitourinary tract

Abstract

We reviewed 50 patients with genitourinary fungal infections between 1982 and 1992. Infections were classified as simple--localized to the bladder and complex--demonstrated evidence of upper tract and/or systemic infection. Predisposing factors of fungal infections, including diabetes mellitus, prolonged Foley catheter drainage and corticosteroid use, were not significantly different. The incidence of obstructive uropathy (88% versus 20%), malnutrition (88% versus 48%), neoplasia (56% versus 16%), renal failure (24% versus 8%) and prolonged antibiotic use (60% versus 32%) were significantly greater in patients with complex infections. The incidence of fungemia in patients with complex infections was 81% with an associated mortality rate of 36%. Of the patients with complex infections 56% required urological intervention. Given the high incidence of obstructive uropathy with complex fungal infections, upper tract imaging is essential.