Opportunistic zygomycotic infections. A literature review.

This is a literature review of 361 opportunistic fungal infections caused by the Zygomycetes. The clinical and laboratory diagnosis, pathogenesis, management, treatment, and outcome of infection are discussed. The Zygomycetes are a group of opportunistic fungi (orders Mucorales and Entomophthorales) which cause severe infections which may be fatal. Early clinical recognition, prompt diagnostic procedures, control of underlying disease and treatment with high doses of amphotericin B and aggressive surgery increases survival in an otherwise lethal infection.