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Published on: July 1, 2020
Fungal infection in organ transplant patients
Wei Hong1, Hai Wen, Wanqing Liao
1Department of Dermatology and Center of Medical Mycology, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China.
Purpose:
To review the characteristics and evolution of the fungal spectrum, and the risk factors causing fungal infection, and to make progress in diagnosing fungal infection after organ transplantation.
Data Sources:
An English-language literature search (MEDLINE 1990 - 2000) and bibliographic review of textbooks and review articles.
Study Selection:
Twenty-three articles were selected from the literature that specifically addressed the stated purpose.
Results:
Fungal infections in organ transplant patients were generally divided into two types: (1) disseminated primary or reactivation infection with one of the geographically restricted systemic mycoses; (2) opportunistic infection by fungal species that rarely cause invasive infection in normal hosts. The risk factors of fungal infection after a transplant can be evaluated and predicted according to the organ recipient's conditions before, during and after the transplant. Progress in early diagnostic methods during the past 10 years has mainly revolved around two aspects, culture and non-culture.
Conclusions:
It is important to undertake a systemic evaluation on the condition of the organ recipient before, during and after a transplant; should any risk factor for fungal infection be suspected, diagnosis should be made as early as possible by employing mycological techniques including culture and non-culture methods.
Insights
Fungal infections in organ transplant recipients are categorized as primary or opportunistic. Early diagnosis using mycological techniques, considering pre- and post-transplant risk factors, is crucial for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Transplant Infectious Diseases
- Immunocompromised Host Infections
Background:
- Fungal infections pose a significant threat to organ transplant recipients.
- Understanding the evolving spectrum and risk factors is essential for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics and evolution of fungal infections in organ transplant patients.
- To identify risk factors associated with fungal infections post-transplantation.
- To highlight advancements in the diagnosis of fungal infections.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive English-language literature search (MEDLINE 1990-2000).
- Bibliographic review of relevant textbooks and review articles.
- Selection of 23 articles specifically addressing fungal infections in transplant recipients.
Main Results:
- Fungal infections are classified into primary/reactivation systemic mycoses and opportunistic infections.
- Risk factors for fungal infection are identifiable based on recipient conditions pre-, during, and post-transplant.
- Diagnostic progress has focused on culture-based and non-culture-based mycological techniques.
Conclusions:
- Systemic evaluation of organ recipients is vital before, during, and after transplantation.
- Early diagnosis of suspected fungal infections should utilize mycological techniques.
- Both culture and non-culture methods are important for timely and accurate diagnosis.
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