Fungal infections, also known as mycoses, pose a significant burden on global health, affecting individuals of all ages and geographical locations. Fungi are ubiquitous in the environment and their ability to infect humans is influenced by various factors such as host immunity, fungal virulence, and environmental conditions. Fungal infections can manifest in diverse forms, ranging from superficial skin and nail infections to invasive systemic diseases with potentially life threatening consequences. This abstract provides an overview of fungal infections, highlighting their epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment modalities. Fungal infections are caused by a diverse range of fungal species, including yeasts, molds and dimorphic fungi. Candida species are among the most common causative agents of superficial and invasive fungal infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Aspergillus, Cryptococcus, Histoplasma and Blastomyces are examples of other clinically important fungal pathogens.
The clinical presentation of fungal infections can vary depending on the site of infection, host factors and the pathogenicity of the infecting organism. Superficial fungal infections primarily affect the skin, hair and nails, causing conditions such as dermatophytosis, candidiasis, and pityriasis versicolor. Invasive fungal infections may target various organs and systems, including the respiratory tract, central nervous system, bloodstream, and gastrointestinal tract. These infections often present with non-specific symptoms, making diagnosis challenging.
Published Date: 2024-08-05; Received Date: 2023-07-21
