Review of Fungal Infection in Human Beings and Role of COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: Fungal infections are common throughout the world. In humans, fungal infections occur
when an invading fungus takes over an area of the body and the immune system is unable to handle it and
eradicate it. Fungi can live in the air, soil, water, and plants and there are also some fungi that live naturally
in the human body.
Aim of the Study: To search and review the current literature surrounding fungal infection in different parts
of body and role of fungal infection during COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: Henari, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched using search
criteria relating to fungal infection and relation with COVID-19 infection. Articles presenting clinical data
for patients with fungal infection and coronavirus infection reported in English only were included. Data
describing prognosis and outcomes were extracted.
Results: 1100 abstracts were identified. Five full texts reporting fungal infection were included. Analysis
showed wide use of empirical broad-spectrum antibacterials drugs in spite of evidence for bacterial
coinfection.
Conclusions: Despite frequent prescription of broad-spectrum empirical antibiotics in patients with
coronavirus-associated respiratory tract infections, there is a small number of data to support the association
with respiratory fungal coinfection. Generation of prospective confirmation to support development of
antimicrobial antibiotics strategy and suitable stewardship specific for the COVID-19 pandemic is urgently
required.