Diagnosis and epidemiology of community-acquired respiratory virus infections in the immunocompromised host.

Infections due to community-acquired respiratory viruses are important causes of morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised patients. Respiratory syncytial virus, influenza viruses, and parainfluenza viruses are the most frequent causes of serious lower respiratory tract infections in this patient population. Early diagnosis, often possible with the use of rapid detection assays, is essential for optimal management and prevention of the spread of these serious infections to other vulnerable patients.