Cutaneous Fungal Infections in Left Ventricular Assist Device Recipients

Purpose of Review: This review summarizes medical literature regarding fungal skin and soft tissue infections in recipients of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). Recent Findings: Superficial fungal infections at the exit site are likely under-reported. Driveline-related fungal infections are well-described, with total parenteral nutrition as a known risk factor. They are typically due to yeast and may require systemic antifungal therapy or surgery, often followed by long-term suppression. Invasive cutaneous infections are rare and often lethal, frequently with disseminated infection. These typically require aggressive medical and surgical therapy. No strategy has demonstrated efficacy at preventing these fungal infections. Summary: Cutaneous fungal infections related to the LVAD are uncommon. There are broad recommendations regarding diagnosis and management of fungal driveline infections. Invasive cutaneous infections are rare but often have poor outcomes in spite of aggressive interventions. More insight into prevention and management may arise as more cases come to light.