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Detection of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Haematological Malignancy Patients by using Lateral-flow Technology
Published on: March 22, 2012
Emerging infections caused by non-Aspergillus filamentous fungi
A P Douglas1, S C-A Chen2, M A Slavin3
1Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
There are three broad groups of non-Aspergillus moulds: the mucormycetes, the hyalohyphomycetes and the phaeohyphomycetes. Infections with these pathogens are increasingly reported, particularly in the context of increasing use of immunosuppressant agents and improved diagnostics. The epidemiology of non-Aspergillus mould infections varies with geography, climate and level of immunosuppression. Skin and soft-tissue infections are the predominant presentation in the immunocompetent host and pulmonary and other invasive infections in the immunocompromised host. The more common non-Aspergillus moulds include Rhizopus, Mucor, Fusarium and Scedosporium species; however, other emerging pathogens are Rasamsonia and Verruconis species, which are discussed in this article. Outbreaks of non-Aspergillus mould infections have been increasingly reported, with contaminated medical supplies and natural disasters as common sources. Currently culture and other conventional diagnostic methods are the cornerstone of diagnosis. Molecular methods to directly detect and identify mould pathogens in tissue and body fluids are increasingly used.
Insights
Non-Aspergillus mould infections are rising, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Diagnosis relies on conventional methods and emerging molecular techniques for better detection of these fungal pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Non-Aspergillus moulds represent a significant group of fungal pathogens.
- Infections are increasing due to immunosuppression and advanced diagnostics.
- Epidemiology varies by geographic location, climate, and host immune status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology and clinical significance of non-Aspergillus mould infections.
- To highlight common and emerging non-Aspergillus mould pathogens.
- To discuss diagnostic approaches for these infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of non-Aspergillus mould infections.
- Discussion of epidemiological factors influencing infection patterns.
- Overview of current and emerging diagnostic methodologies.
Main Results:
- Non-Aspergillus moulds include mucormycetes, hyalohyphomycetes, and phaeohyphomycetes.
- Skin/soft-tissue infections are common in immunocompetent hosts; invasive infections in immunocompromised.
- Common pathogens include Rhizopus, Mucor, Fusarium, Scedosporium; emerging ones include Rasamsonia and Verruconis.
Conclusions:
- Non-Aspergillus mould infections pose a growing threat, particularly in vulnerable populations.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial, with molecular methods showing increasing utility.
- Understanding epidemiology aids in prevention and management strategies.
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