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Mucosal and invasive fungal infections in HIV/AIDS

C A Hage1, M Goldman, L J Wheat

  • 1Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital, USA. lwheat@iupui.edu

European Journal of Medical Research
|June 19, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Management of fungal infections in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has improved due to potent antiretroviral therapy (ART). While ART reduces incidence, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndromes and new antifungal agents require updated treatment strategies for HIV patients.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Fungal infections were historically common in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
  • The advent of potent antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly reduced the incidence of these infections.
  • Current cases often involve patients with advanced HIV disease, treatment failure, or those treatment-naïve.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an updated review on the management of fungal infections in patients with AIDS.
  • To discuss the impact of ART on the incidence and presentation of fungal infections.
  • To highlight new therapeutic options and challenges in managing these infections.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes current literature on fungal infections in AIDS.
  • It examines the influence of antiretroviral therapy on disease incidence and immune reconstitution.
  • The review considers the emergence of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndromes (IRIS) and new antifungal agents.

Main Results:

  • Antiretroviral therapy has led to a decreased incidence of fungal infections in AIDS patients.
  • Immune reconstitution can reduce infection rates and allow for discontinuation of maintenance therapy.
  • Paradoxical worsening of fungal infections, known as IRIS, can occur due to immune reconstitution.
  • New antifungal agents offer expanded treatment choices.

Conclusions:

  • The management of fungal infections in AIDS has evolved significantly with ART.
  • Updated strategies are necessary to address the changing epidemiology and challenges like IRIS.
  • Continued research and clinical vigilance are crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

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