Telemedicine system for the diagnosis and management of invasive fungal infections in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Invasive fungal infections are not usually suspected by clinicians in our setting resulting in avoidable deaths, morbidity, and irrational/misuse of antibiotics. Unfortunately, there are few specialists of Medical Mycology in Nigeria working in very few centers where fungal infections can effectively be managed. This article describes a telemedicine system designed to provide an electronic consultation platform for the diagnosis and management of invasive fungal infections in Nigeria. Methods: The telemedicine center was designed and implemented using state-of-the-art technologies comprising hardware and software components. The center includes a high-resolution 60-inch liquid-crystal display smart television, an Intel Core i3 Desktop Computer, webcam system, a broadband Internet connection, and a backup electricity supply. The system currently uses the Zoom platform to establish virtual connections with collaborators as well as patients. Results: Since its inception, the center has managed 34 serious patients whose managing clinicians have called in for consultation. The establishment of the center has led to increased collaboration with other specialists in clinical mycology across Africa and Europe. Patient outcome has also been impacted positively because of consultation provided on diagnosis and antifungal therapy. The center has further accelerated the exchange of knowledge and ideas between health-care practitioners in Africa on the management of invasive fungal infections. Conclusions: Therefore, telemedicine center has been immensely beneficial for the management of patients suffering from invasive fungal infections in Nigeria.