Fungal infections in the immunocompromised host

In recent years many remarkable changes occurred in our way of life, produc ing opportunities for microbes. All these changes are related to the recent emergence of previously unrecognized diseases, or the resurgence of diseas es that, at least in developed countries, were thought to be under control. This concept is reviewed regarding fungal infections and their agents in t he immunocompromised host. The changing pattern of these infections, the po rtals of entry of fungi into the human host, fungal pathogenicity and the m ain predisposing factors are analyzed. Opportunistic fungal infections in c ancer, organ transplant and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients are reviewed, specially candidiasis and aspergillosis.