Dermatologic infections in the immunocompromised (non-HIV) host.
The immunocompromised host's susceptibility to infections often present a difficult diagnostic challenge to the physician. A working knowledge of the host immune defenses and microbiologic complications that can occur when these functions are compromised provides a more focused framework for further evaluation and management. Infections in these patients are often morbid and life-threatening, creating an urgent need for prompt diagnosis. The skin may manifest the first clue(s) of a serious underlying infection. Appropriate workup and diagnosis of cutaneous lesions provide an expeditious, noninvasive, and potentially life-saving approach to the immunocompromised host with a dermatologic infection.
Lopez
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Department of Medicine, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. alopez1@lsuhsc.edu
Sanders
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CV
D006801:Humans; D007154:Immune System Diseases / Q000150:complications; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D009503:Neutropenia / Q000382:microbiology; D009894:Opportunistic Infections / Q000382:microbiology; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000276:immunology / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000473:pathology