Infections caused by Scedosporium spp

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunocompromised Host

Background:

• Scedosporium species are emerging pathogens causing severe infections in immunocompromised patients.
• These fungi manifest in various conditions, from colonization to disseminated disease, affecting lungs, sinuses, bones, eyes, and brain.
• Key species include Scedosporium apiospermum and Scedosporium prolificans, with Pseudallescheria boydii being the teleomorph of S. apiospermum.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the spectrum of Scedosporium infections.
• To discuss diagnostic challenges and advances.
• To outline current and potential therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Scedosporium infections.
• Analysis of species identification and taxonomy.
• Summary of clinical manifestations and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• Scedosporium infections present diverse clinical syndromes and are often resistant to antifungals.
• S. apiospermum and P. boydii may respond to triazoles, while S. prolificans infections are challenging.
• Innate immunity plays a crucial role in host defense against Scedosporium.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis and species identification are critical for effective management of Scedosporium infections.
• Treatment strategies must be tailored to the specific species and patient's immune status.
• S. prolificans infections frequently necessitate multimodal approaches including surgery and immunosuppression reversal.