Advances in serological systems for diagnosis of systemic fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida and Aspergillus

Abstract

Invasive fungal infections have emerged as important causes of morbidity and mortality in neutropenicand some other immunocompromised hosts; Candida and Aspergillus are among the major pathogens in this patient population. The clinical diagnosis of these infections is not specific and the traditional mycological methods for them not sensitive, with limits in the early detection of the pathogen. The potential additives or complements to the laboratory diagnosis of invasive candidiasis and aspergillosis are two non-culture-based methods, serodiagnostic methods and molecular ones. The former methods include the detection of pathogen-specific antigens, antibodies, metabolites and cell wall components. Several have already become standard laboratory tools and some others are under active investigation for developing new, more accurate detection systems. In this review, I will discuss the current status and future potential of serodiagnostic methods, highlighting both their technical and clinical implications.