Fungal infection in organ transplant patients.
OBJECTIVE
To review the characteristics and evolution of the fungal spectrum, and the risk factors causing fungal infection, and to make progress in diagnosing fungal infection after organ transplantation.


METHODS
An English-language literature search (MEDLINE 1990 - 2000) and bibliographic review of textbooks and review articles.


METHODS
Twenty-three articles were selected from the literature that specifically addressed the stated purpose.


RESULTS
Fungal infections in organ transplant patients were generally divided into two types: (1) disseminated primary or reactivation infection with one of the geographically restricted systemic mycoses; (2) opportunistic infection by fungal species that rarely cause invasive infection in normal hosts. The risk factors of fungal infection after a transplant can be evaluated and predicted according to the organ recipient's conditions before, during and after the transplant. Progress in early diagnostic methods during the past 10 years has mainly revolved around two aspects, culture and non-culture.


CONCLUSIONS
It is important to undertake a systemic evaluation on the condition of the organ recipient before, during and after a transplant; should any risk factor for fungal infection be suspected, diagnosis should be made as early as possible by employing mycological techniques including culture and non-culture methods.
Hong
Wei
W
Department of Dermatology and Center of Medical Mycology, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
Wen
Hai
H
Liao
Wanqing
W
D006801:Humans; D009181:Mycoses / Q000209:etiology*; D016377:Organ Transplantation; D011183:Postoperative Complications