[Yeasts: cause of infections of the respiratory tract?].

Poor data are given in literature on the rate and concentration of yeasts on mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. Our data show a rate of lower than 0.2% (only concentrations of 10(4)-10(5) detected). In contrast to this low colonization rate, a percentage of higher than 20% can be detected in patients on intensive care units. The aetiologic role of yeasts in pneumonia and bronchitis can be evaluated more easily, if candida is not only found in a single tracheal or bronchial secretion, but in follow-up specimens and if yeasts can be detected in blood culture, urine, or from other mucous membranes. Our own experience underlines the value of the new tests for candida antigens: a titer higher than 1:4 is a strong hint for fungaemia.