Invasive fungal infections in solid organ transplant recipients

Abstract

Invasive fungal infections are a major problem in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. Overall, the most common fungal infection in SOT is candidiasis, followed by aspergillosis and cryptococcosis, except in lung transplant recipients, where aspergillosis is most common. Development of invasive disease hinges on the interplay between host factors (e.g., integrity of anatomical barriers, innate and acquired immunity) and fungal factors (e.g., exposure, virulence and resistance to prophylaxis). In this article, we describe the epidemiology and clinical features of the most common fungal infections in organ transplantation. Within this context, we review recent advances in diagnostic modalities and antifungal chemotherapy, and their impact on evolving prophylaxis and treatment paradigms.