Emerging opportunists.
The number and types of opportunistic fungal pathogens are increasing dramatically. It is likely that this trend will continue as the numbers of immunosuppressed patients escalate. Both the clinician and laboratorian must maintain a high index of suspicion for mycoses in these settings. Responsible fungal agents may be classified across the entire fungal kingdom and include both yeasts and molds. In addition to the need for improved methods of diagnosis and therapy, it is truly time for medical professionals to "think fungus"!
Rinaldi
M G
MG
Fungus Testing Laboratory, Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio.
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D007938:Leukemia / Q000150:complications*; D009181:Mycoses / Q000150:complications*; D009894:Opportunistic Infections / Q000150:complications*