Determination of the Current Prevalence of Fungal Infections in Surgical Wounds Among Hospitalized Patients: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Fungal infections in surgical wounds are a significant concern, with increasing incidence and morbidity.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of fungal species isolated from surgical-Site Infections (SSIs) and describe their clinical features/ signs and symptoms.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted using ten electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AJOL, Google Scholar, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, and JSTOR. Studies published between 2020 and 2025 were included, and data on fungal species, clinical features/ signs and symptoms, and patient demographics were extracted.

Results: A total of 350 studies met the inclusion criteria, with Candida albicans being the most common pathogen (39.7%). Non-Candida moulds, such as Aspergillus and Fusarium, species represented 16.9% of isolates. The most common clinical features/signs and symptoms were wound discharge/pus (65.4%), erythema/redness (54.3%), and swelling/edema (49.1%). The prevalence of fungal species varied by gender, with C. albicans being more common in men (41.1%) and “Other” fung being more common in women (21.3%).

Conclusion: Fungal infections in surgical wounds are a significant concern, with C. albicans being the most common pathogen. The clinical presentation of fungal infections is non-specific and can be similar to bacterial infections. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. Clinicians should be aware of the clinical features/signs and symptoms of fungal infections and consider them in the differential diagnosis.