Can chitotriosidase be a surrogate marker for invasive fungal disease?

Summary Background Chitotriosidase (CHT) enzyme has been known to be secreted from the activated macrophages. We infer with these data that CHT activity is an indicator for the defence. Methods In this study, we evaluated CHT levels in both neutropenic and non neutropenic patients. CHT enzyme activity was measured and compared to each other groups. Results Chitotriosidase levels were found to be significantly higher in neutropenic patients with candidemia. Conclusion In the comparison between neutropenic and non neutropenic patients, there was a significant difference for CHT levels. The use of this enzyme as a surrogate marker for candidemias were evaluated in neutropenic and non neutropenic patients.