Diagnosis of invasive fungal infection in patients with solid organ transplants: How to approach?

Abstract

Invasive fungal infection (IFI) is associated with high morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients. Candida and Aspergillus species are the most frequent agents of IFIs. Cryptococcus spp, non-Aspergillus moulds, endemic fungi and Pneumocystis jirovecii are less commonly determined. Diagnosis of IFI can be difficult because the signs and symptoms are not specific, and diagnostic techniques have limited sensitivity and specificity. In this review, epidemiological characteristics, clinical course, risk factors and diagnostic tests of common IFIs in solid organ transplant recipients are discussed. © 2019, AVES. All rights reserved.