Fungal Infections Complicating Lung Transplantation

Semin Respir Crit Care Med. 2018 Apr;39(2):227-254. doi: 10.1055/s-0037-1617443. Epub 2018 Mar 26.

Abstract

Lung transplantation is an increasingly utilized modality for treating advanced lung disease. However, lung transplant recipients (LTRs) experience high rates of infection-related mortality and, compared with other solid organ transplant recipients, are at increased risk of infectious complications given the intensity of immunosuppression employed, the presence of airway abnormalities after surgery and exposure of the allograft to the environment. Fungal infections, particularly mold infections, are problematic after transplantation as they are often associated with limited treatment options and poor outcomes. We describe the non-Candida fungal infections occurring in LTRs, including their epidemiology, clinical features, and treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Debridement
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppression Therapy / adverse effects
  • Lung Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Mycoses / complications*
  • Mycoses / diagnosis
  • Mycoses / therapy*
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents