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Systemic mycoses in immunodepressed patients (AIDS)
Marcia Ramos-e-Silva1, Cíntia Maria Oliveira Lima, Regina Casz Schechtman
1Sector of Dermatology and Graduate Course in Dermatology, University Hospital and School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rua Dona Mariana 143/C-32, 22280-020 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. ramos.e.silva@dermato.med.br
Clinics in Dermatology
|October 17, 2012
Summary
Skin diseases are common in HIV patients, worsening with immune decline. Antiretroviral therapy improves survival and quality of life for those with HIV/AIDS and systemic mycoses.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Skin conditions affect nearly all individuals with HIV, increasing in severity as immune function declines.
- Cutaneous manifestations serve as key indicators of immune status in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
- Highly effective antiretroviral therapy has dramatically improved prognoses for AIDS-associated diseases, including mycoses, leading to longer survival and better quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common systemic mycoses in the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive population.
- To detail the causative agents, transmission, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and therapy of these mycoses in immunocompromised patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on systemic mycoses in HIV/AIDS patients.
- Compilation of information on specific fungal infections: cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, blastomycosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, sporotrichosis, penicilliosis, and aspergillosis.
Main Results:
- Systemic mycoses are prevalent in HIV/AIDS patients, with their severity linked to immune status.
- Effective antiretroviral therapy significantly alters the disease course and prognosis of these infections.
- The review covers etiological agents, transmission routes, clinical features, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic strategies relevant to immunocompromised individuals.
Conclusions:
- Systemic mycoses represent a significant health concern for individuals with HIV/AIDS.
- Understanding the specific characteristics of these fungal infections in immunocompromised hosts is crucial for effective management.
- Advances in antiretroviral therapy have improved outcomes, but continued vigilance and appropriate treatment are essential.
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