Challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary fungal infections in Pakistan

Abstract

A significant burden of pulmonary infections exists in low and low-middle-income countries (LMICs) resulting in high morbidity and mortality1. Fungi are an important cause of respiratory infections particularly in patients with compromised immune systems, structural lung disease, prolonged ICU stay, and post TB and viral infections. Pulmonary fungal infections result in severe respiratory complications, high mortality, and significant healthcare costs. Aspergillus spp, are responsible for a majority of these infections, however, in endemic settings, histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, and blastomycosis could present as community-acquired pneumonia.