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Isolation and Selection of Entomopathogenic Fungi from Soil Samples and Evaluation of Fungal Virulence against Insect Pests
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Published on: September 28, 2021

Diagnostic methods for fungal infections in pediatric patients: microbiological, serological and molecular methods

Yasemin Oz1, Nuri Kiraz

  • 1Eskisehir Osmangazi University Medical Faculty, Department of Microbiology, Division of Mycology, Eskisehir, Turkey. dryaseminoz@gmail.com

Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy
|March 23, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Diagnosing invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in immunocompromised children is challenging. Current non-culture methods like galactomannan and 1,3-β-D-glucan offer convenience, but molecular methods require standardization for wider use.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Mycology
  • Diagnostic Microbiology

Background:

  • Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are significant causes of illness and death in immunocompromised children.
  • Accurate and timely diagnosis of IFIs is crucial for effective antifungal treatment and minimizing toxicity.
  • Traditional diagnostic methods (microscopy, histology, culture) often lack sufficient sensitivity and specificity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current diagnostic approaches for IFIs in pediatric patients.
  • To evaluate the utility of non-culture based diagnostic methods.
  • To discuss the potential and limitations of molecular diagnostic techniques.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on IFI diagnostics in pediatric populations.
  • Analysis of performance characteristics for antigen detection assays (galactomannan, 1,3-β-D-glucan).
  • Assessment of molecular diagnostic strategies for opportunistic mycoses.

Main Results:

  • Non-culture methods, including galactomannan and 1,3-β-D-glucan detection, are practical for IFI diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
  • Despite limitations, traditional methods remain a gold standard.
  • Molecular diagnostic methods show promise but are not yet standardized for clinical use.

Conclusions:

  • Improved diagnostic tools are needed for IFIs in immunocompromised children.
  • Commercial antigen detection assays offer a viable alternative to traditional methods.
  • Further research and standardization are required for molecular diagnostics to be integrated into routine clinical practice.

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