Epidemiology of Invasive Fungal Infections in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: a North American Perspective

AbstractPurpose of the ReviewInvasive fungal infections (IFI) produce significant morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients, although their overall incidence is poorly defined. This review aims to provide insight into recent developments in the epidemiology of IFI in these patients.Recent FindingsInvasive candidiasis is the most common IFI encountered particularly those with intraabdominal transplants. In contrast, invasive aspergillosis is commonly seen in lung transplants. Voriconazole therapy has certainly increased the survival in invasive aspergillosis. The risk of disseminated cryptococcosis occurs more commonly in liver transplant than other organ transplants. Histoplasmosis usually arises from reactivation in the recipient but may also be donor derived. A higher rate of dissemination occurs in solid organ transplants with coccidioidomycosis. Of interest, climate change may enhance the risk of emerging fungal infection in transplant recipients.SummaryA better understanding of the incidence and risk factors for IFI is necessary. Future strategies based on such knowledge will assist in reducing IFI.
Source: Current Fungal Infection Reports - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research