Immunology of infections with Cryptococcus neoformans

Abstract

Cryptococcus neoformans is largely an opportunist, causing infection when host defences are breached. During the past two decades, invasive cryptococcal infections have emerged as a major threat to these immunocompromised hosts, especially to non-treated HIV patients. Also patients with neoplastic diseases are at significant risk for infections as a result of their underlying illness and its therapy. The outcome of infections differs, depending upon which aspect of immunity is impaired. This article reviews the current understanding of the role and relative importance of innate and adaptive immunity to Cryptococcus neoformans. An understanding of the host response to this organism is important in decisions regarding use of currently available anti-fungal strategies and in the design of new therapeutic modalities.