Transmission of candida albicans to patients using corticosteroids containing inhalers

ABSTRACT

Ninety-two patients using metered-dose steroid inhalers were studied by culturing swabs from their throats; swabs from the Inhalers; and the Inhalers mist. Candida was isolated from 80% of patients not conforming to the hygienic maintenance of inhalers and in 15.6% of patients doing so. Also a significant correlation was found between the presence of candida in patients throat and the inhalers inner walls. These results point to the importance of special stress on hygienic care of inhalers