Detection of early laboratory fungal biomarkers and it's importance for outcome of invasive fungal infections in Serbia

Candida and Aspergillus are leading fungi, which cause high mortality at critically ill high-risk patients (HRP). Symptoms and radiological manifestations of disease are often non-specific, so early laboratory diagnosis of invasive fungal infection (IFI) is important. Primary goal of the project is to evaluate specificity, sensitivity, and reproducibility of tests for early detection of biomarkers and outcome of IFI. Prevalence of IFI will be follow up during next 5 years in hematooncological, pulmonary, surgery patients and patients at intensive care units, using criteria of the European Organization (EORTC/MSG). Fungal components of cell wall galactomannan (GM), mannan(MN), specific fungal nucleic acid sequences (fungal PCR) and components of specific host immune response (anti-fungal Abs) as early laboratory biomarkers will be used for screening HRP, diagnosis/prognosis IFI and following antifungal treatment. Correlation of clinical, laboratory and epidemiological data will improve better monitoring of incidence of IFI, determination of risk factors for different groups and assess impact of prevention programs. Collection of DNA/serum samples and fungal strains from patients with proven or probable IFI should be used in long-term studies. Developing hospital and laboratory network will improve level of education and implementation of European standards at national level for better IFI outcome.