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The lung in the immunocompromised patient. Infectious complications part 2

M Tamm1

  • 1Division of Pneumology, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland. michaelt@mailmed.usyd.edu.au

Respiration; International Review of Thoracic Diseases
|June 12, 1999
PubMed

Insights

This review covers viral and fungal pulmonary infections in immunocompromised patients, focusing on those with HIV or undergoing transplantation. It highlights key pathogens and their impact on patient health.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pulmonology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Pulmonary infections are a major cause of illness and death in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Previous reviews covered bacterial, mycobacterial, and Pneumocystis carinii infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review viral and fungal pulmonary infections in specific immunocompromised patient groups.
  • To provide an overview of current knowledge on these infections.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of viral and fungal pulmonary infections.
  • Focus on patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
  • Focus on patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy, stem cell, or solid-organ transplantation.

Main Results:

  • Viral infections pose significant risks in immunocompromised hosts.
  • Fungal infections are also a critical concern in these populations.
  • Specific pathogens and their clinical significance are discussed.

Conclusions:

  • Viral and fungal pulmonary infections require careful management in immunocompromised patients.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
  • This review complements previous discussions on other pulmonary pathogens.

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