[Candida infections in immunocompromised hosts].

Candida infections in the immunocompromised patients represent a major therapeutic challenge. In immunocompromised host candidiasis can range from asymptomatic oral thrush to life-threatening candidemia. Invasive Candida infections parallel increase in the immunocompromised patient population and are characterized by high mortality. Diagnosis of Candida infections is difficult and is based on clinical picture, microbiological and histological examinations. Mainstay of treatment are systemic antimycotic agents (fluconazole, amphotericin B, itraconazole, voriconazole and caspofungin). Empirical and prophylactic treatment is warranted in selected groups of high risk patients.