The role of neutrophils in the development and outcome of zygomycosis in haematological patients

Abstract

Zygomycosis constitutes the third leading cause of invasive fungal infections following aspergillosis and candidosis. Patients with haematologic malignancies or haematopoietic stem cell transplantation are particularly susceptible to zygomycosis. Neutropenia represents the most important pathogenic mechanism influencing the onset and outcome of zygomycosis. Neutrophils cause a lesion of the fungal wall with subsequent destruction by macrophages. They also enhance the activity of antifungal drugs against Zygomycetes. Strategies that aim to increase neutrophil count and function, such as granulocyte colony stimulating factor and granulocyte transfusion, could play an important role in the management of this life-threatening infectious complication. © 2009 The Authors. Journal Compilation © 2009 European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.