Invasive fungal infections in the pediatric population

Abstract

Expert Rev. Anti Infect. Ther. 9(3), 275-278 (2011) Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are increasing in incidence and constitute an important cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised pediatric patient populations, including, but not limited to, preterm neonates, children and adolescents with hematologic malignancies, and those undergoing hematopoietic stem cell trans- plantation (HSCT) (1-3). Although chil- dren and adults are similarly vulnerable to IFIs, important differences between these two patient groups have to be considered. These include epidemiology, diagnostic approaches, as well as pharmaco kinetics (PK) and adverse effects of antifungal agents, all of which have an impact on anti- fungal management strategies. In order to optimize prevention and treatment of IFIs in children, all specialists involved in the care of pediatric patients have to be familiar with these specifics of pediatric care . Populations at risk & epidemiology