Latest developments in fungal lung infection in solid organ transplantation (SOT)

Abstract

The incidence of invasive mycoses following solid organ transplant (SOT) ranges from 5 to 42% depending on the organ transplanted. Despite the increasing impact of viral infections in SOT, fungal infections still have a main role in transplant recipients. In fact, they remain a common cause of morbidity and mortality in the early and late post-transplant periods. Aspergillus spp. and Candida spp. account for most IFI, but recent epidemiological and clinical studies suggest the emergence of mycelia fungi other than Aspergillus as well as resistant strains of Candida in these patients. Due to the difficulty in making a definitive diagnosis, the treatment is sometimes delayed or is not prescribed (post-mortem diagnosis). Serological and molecular detection of Aspergillus antigens or fungal DNA, in blood and/or BAL samples, may improve the diagnosis of pulmonary aspergillosis, but in SOT the sensitivity is variable and more studies are needed. Another pendent issue is antifungal prophylaxis in SOT recipients; it is unknown which is the best agent or the time duration, and in which receptors must be applied. Treatment combining AmB preparations, newer antifungal drugs, early surgical resection of infected tissue and discontinuation or modulation of immunosuppressive treatment can to be necessary in selected patients and in certain occasions, and all of them may improve prognosis of IFI. However, there are two main handicaps in the management of FI in transplant recipients: firstly, to establish an early diagnosis, secondly, delays in applying early treatment with antifungal drugs. Development of new early diagnostic tools more precise and well-designed multicenter evaluations of diagnostic methods and therapeutic regimens available at present are the important work in the next 3-5 years. This review highlights changing spectrum of invasive fungal infections, risk factors, antifungal prophylaxis, and treatment following SOT.