Healthcare utilisation and impact of antifungal stewardships within respiratory care settings: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Fungal infection and sensitisation are common in chronic respiratory patient populations such as bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis (CF) and are often associated with prolonged antifungal therapy[1][2], morbidity, and mortality. Although the use of antifungal stewardship (AFS) is increasing within an invasive fungal disease setting, its use and impact within a chronic respiratory setting have not been defined. Methods:

A systematic literature review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines to evaluate the use of antifungal stewardship within a chronic respiratory care setting. Three databases have been searched, Medline via Ovid, Embase and GlobalHealth, for papers published between 1949 and 2020. Results:

The initial search identified 987 papers from Medline, 1761 papers from Embase, and 481 papers from GlobalHealth. Only 28 papers met the criteria for inclusion in this systematic literature review. The included studies were subjected to CASP and GRADE assessments to rank their quality and applicability. Only two studies were focused on Aspergillus species infection. Conclusion:

Although antifungal stewardship is increasing, its applications are still limited in chronic respiratory care settings despite the prolonged requirement for antifungal therapy and high antimicrobial