JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Public health is gradually more at risk from fungal infections, especially in those with underlying risk factors like neutropenia, high dose steroids, cancer chemotherapy, long term ICU stay, etc., which can lead to deadly mycoses and higher mortality rates. The rates of these infections have been steadily increasing over the past two decades due to the increasing population of these immunocompromised patients. However, the data regarding the exact burden of such infection is still not available from India. Therefore, this registry was initiated to collate such data.

Objective:

In this study protocol, we will describe the creation of a national clinical registry in mycology to fill knowledge gaps surrounding invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in India. The main goals include creating a multicenter digital clinical registry, delving into epidemiological factors, examining clinical features, and monitoring trends in newly emerging fungal diseases. Secondary objectives will involve examining emerging antifungal resistance patterns and analyzing the influence of fungal infections on morbidity and inpatient mortality across various conditions.

Methods:

The study will employ a web-based data collection method and data from the Advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centers (AMDRCs) of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Descriptive and multivariate statistical methods will be applied to investigate clinical manifestations, risk variables, and treatment outcomes.

Results:

AMDRCs is expected to improve fungal infection diagnosis, accuracy, and timely intervention significantly, ultimately reducing mortality rates. This registry will ensure to enhance our understanding of IFIs, support evidence-based clinical decision-making ability and encourage public health policies and actions.

Conclusions:

This initiative of a clinical registry will finally attempt to enhance the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of fungal diseases in India by addressing pertinent gaps in mycology.