Pathogenesis of invasive candidiasis.
OBJECTIVE
Disseminated candidiasis remains a life-threatening disease in the ICU. The development of invasive disease with Candida albicans is dependent on multiple factors, such as colonization and efficient host defense at the mucosa. In the present review, we describe the host defense mechanisms against Candida that are responsible for counteracting mucosal invasion, and eliminating the pathogen once invasion has taken place.


RESULTS
The newly described T-helper subset Th17 is critical for mucosal anti-Candida host defense and plays a major role in controlling C. albicans colonization, whereas the Th1 response and monocyte-dependent cytokines such as IL-1 and TNF are predominantly responsible for activation of neutrophils and macrophages during disseminated candidiasis.


CONCLUSIONS
This knowledge provides the basis of exploring new treatment options in the fight against invasive candidiasis. Reports of beneficial effects of recombinant cytokine therapy in fungal infections, renders them prime candidates for adjuvant immunotherapy in Candida sepsis.
van de Veerdonk
Frank L
FL
Department of Medicine and Nijmegen Institute for Infection, Inflammation & Immunity (N4i), Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Kullberg
Bart-Jan
BJ
Netea
Mihai G
MG
D002175:Candida / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D058365:Candidiasis, Invasive / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units