Infectious diseases caused by Fungi

Fungi are unicellular or multicellular eukaryotic microorganisms. They live anywhere with humidity, and establish symbiotic relationships with other living beings. However, some can cause infectious diseases, known as mycosis. It can affect the internal tissues of the body, but the most common and less serious is the infection that is located in the hair, nails, skin or mucous membranes (superficial mycosis). Treatment is with antifungals, and it is necessary to take into account the location of the microorganism to counteract the infection with systemic or local treatments. The diagnosis of fungal diseases can be made by direct examination in the case of superficial mycoses, by culture and microscope, by serological tests to detect antibodies or antigens, or by molecular diagnosis.

Early diagnosis of fungal infection is critical to effective treatment. While fungal disease diagnostics have improved in the last 15 years, access to tests and their actual use of them is limited. Moreover, time to result, and sensitivity and specificity are also impediments.