Pneumocystis and fungal infection in patients with malignancies

Abstract

The alarming increase in infections resulting from fungi and Pneumocystis among patients with malignancies has prompted the organization of a number of workshops to explore the magnitude of the problem and to elicit suggestions for approaching diagnosis, treatment and prevention of infection with these opportunistic pathogens. Our knowledge of the source and means of spread of organisms like Aspergillus and Pneumocystis, and the methods of preventing infection by them have advanced only little in spite of the acknowledged high incidence of these infections in major medical centers in the United ‘States during the last decade. Premortem diagnosis of infection with Pneumocystis and those fungi causing the greatest incidence of morbidity and mortality in these patients rarely is accomplished without invasive procedures; frequently, even when the diagnosis is suspected premortem it may be established solely at autopsy. We shall review briefly our own experience with deep seated (most often disseminated) candidiasis and Pneumocystis infection in tumor bearing patients. For a review of the literature, the reader is referred to other references. (1.6.7.9.11.12.14-16) Aspergillus has been a