Opportunistic fungal infections in immunocompromised hosts.

Fungal infections in immunocompromised hosts cause major morbidity and mortality. The Candida and Aspergillus species are the most common causes, but many rarer organisms, once considered "contaminants," are being reported. The number of patients who receive immunosuppressive agents for the treatment of malignancy or for organ transplantation is increasing as well as the potential for local or disseminated fungal infections. The diagnosis of these infections is often difficult and the existing methods for treatment are often ineffective. A high degree of suspicion to identify fungal infections and to prompt initiation of treatment must be maintained if the survival rate of these patients is expected to improve.