Central venous catheter with Candida yeast cells

Catheter-Related Candidemia: What You Need to Know About This Hidden Risk

Nico Varela in Health & Wellness July 2025 • 4 min read.

"Understanding the causes, risks, and prevention of candidemia in cardiovascular patients. Plus, the latest on non-albicans Candida infections."

In recent decades, the landscape of nosocomial fungal infections has seen a significant shift, driven by the increasing use of medical devices and technologies. This rise is particularly evident in developing countries and, indeed, within Iran. Among those at heightened risk are individuals with heart failure, where the intersection of cardiac disease and candidiasis presents a complex challenge.

Candidemia, a bloodstream infection caused by Candida species, is a major concern for hospitalized patients, especially those in intensive care units (ICUs) and coronary care units (CCUs). Several risk factors contribute to this increased susceptibility, including prolonged ICU stays, the use of central venous catheters (CVCs), broad-spectrum antibiotic treatments, glucocorticoid use, parenteral nutrition, and invasive surgical procedures such as cardiac valve repair or replacement.

While venous catheters offer essential benefits in patient care, they can also inadvertently create pathways for fungal agents to colonize and cause infections. These infections can range from localized issues and venous inflammation to, in rare instances, the systemic spread of infection. Given the severity and potential complications of invasive candidiasis, early detection and appropriate management are critical.

What is Catheter-Related Candidemia and Why Is It a Concern?

Central venous catheter with Candida yeast cells

Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are among the most dangerous complications associated with vascular catheters. These infections not only increase healthcare costs and extend hospital stays but also significantly elevate patient mortality rates, especially within intensive care units. Candida species, a type of yeast, are a common cause of CRBSIs, leading to a condition known as catheter-related candidemia.

The Tehran Heart Center study aimed to determine the prevalence of catheter-induced candidemia and identify the specific Candida species involved. This research is particularly relevant given the rise in non-albicans Candida infections, which can be more resistant to common antifungal drugs.

Study Design: Researchers collected 223 samples from patients admitted to the Tehran Heart Center over 18 months.
Sampling Methods: Both blood and catheter cultures were performed to detect fungal elements. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to identify Candida species.
Findings: 15 yeast isolates were identified, with 60% from catheter cultures, 26.6% from blood cultures, and 13.4% from skin cultures at the catheter insertion site.
Species Identification: Candida albicans and Candida glabrata were the most common species. C. tropicalis and C. membranifaciens were also identified in catheter and blood cultures.
Confirmed Cases: Two cases of catheter-related candidemia were confirmed based on genetic similarity between Candida species isolated from blood and catheter samples. These cases were successfully treated with fluconazole and catheter removal.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing catheter-related candidemia. These include prior antibiotic therapy, the use of central venous catheters, surgery, and parenteral nutrition. Recognizing these risk factors is the first step in preventing this serious infection.

What's the takeaway?

The study underscores the growing prevalence of non-albicans Candida infections and the importance of identifying the source of infection in candidemia cases. Positive blood and catheter cultures, combined with genetic similarity of Candida isolates, confirm the diagnosis of intravenous catheter-related candidemia. Early detection and appropriate treatment, including catheter removal and antifungal medications, are essential for successful outcomes.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.18502/cmm.4.2.63, Alternate LINK

Title: Catheter-Related Candidemia And Identification Of Causative Candida Species In Patients With Cardiovascular Disorder

Subject: Infectious Diseases

Journal: Current Medical Mycology

Publisher: Knowledge E DMCC

Authors: Shirinsadat Hashemi Fesharaki, Seyed Reza Aghili, Tahereh Shokohi, Mohammad Ali Boroumand

Published: 2018-10-03

Everything You Need To Know

What is Catheter-Related Candidemia, and why is it particularly dangerous for patients with cardiovascular disorders?

Catheter-related candidemia is a bloodstream infection caused by Candida species, specifically linked to the presence of a central venous catheter (CVC). This condition is especially dangerous for patients with cardiovascular disorders due to their increased susceptibility and the potential for severe complications. These patients often have underlying health conditions and may undergo invasive procedures like cardiac valve repair or replacement, making them more vulnerable to infection and adverse outcomes. The infection can lead to increased healthcare costs, longer hospital stays, and higher mortality rates.

What are the main risk factors for developing Catheter-Related Candidemia, and how do these factors contribute to the infection?

Several factors heighten the risk of catheter-related candidemia. These include prolonged stays in intensive care units (ICUs), the use of central venous catheters (CVCs), broad-spectrum antibiotic treatments, glucocorticoid use, parenteral nutrition, and invasive surgical procedures. The CVCs, while essential for patient care, can become entry points for fungal agents. Antibiotics can disrupt the body's natural defenses, and other factors like parenteral nutrition can create an environment where Candida species can thrive. Invasive procedures, such as cardiac valve repair or replacement, can further increase the risk of infection.

How is Catheter-Related Candidemia diagnosed, and what role does the Tehran Heart Center study play in understanding the condition?

Diagnosis of catheter-related candidemia involves a combination of methods. Blood and catheter cultures are performed to detect fungal elements. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used to identify the specific Candida species involved. The Tehran Heart Center study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of this infection and the specific Candida species present. The study's findings highlighted the rise in non-albicans Candida infections and the importance of identifying the infection's source for effective treatment. Positive blood and catheter cultures, with genetic similarity of the Candida isolates, confirm catheter-related candidemia.

Which Candida species are most commonly associated with catheter-related candidemia, and what implications does this have for treatment?

Candida albicans and Candida glabrata are the most common species associated with catheter-related candidemia, as identified in the Tehran Heart Center study. Other species like C. tropicalis and C. membranifaciens were also identified. The identification of specific species is crucial because of the varying susceptibility to antifungal drugs. Non-albicans Candida infections, in particular, may be more resistant to common treatments like fluconazole, necessitating careful selection of antifungal therapy and, potentially, the removal of the catheter.

What is the recommended treatment for Catheter-Related Candidemia, and why is early detection so important?

The recommended treatment for catheter-related candidemia typically includes the removal of the central venous catheter (CVC) and the administration of antifungal medications. Early detection is critical because invasive candidiasis can lead to severe complications and increased mortality rates. Timely diagnosis and treatment, including catheter removal and appropriate antifungal therapy, improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of systemic spread. The successful treatment of cases in the Tehran Heart Center study with fluconazole and catheter removal underscores the importance of this approach.