The changing spectrum of fungal infections in pulmonary and critical care practice: clinical approach to diagnosis.

Fungal lung infections are being diagnosed with increasing frequency. This is related to the increased numbers of immune-compromised and other susceptible patient groups. This article will focus on the evolving epidemiology of fungal lung infections and clinical manifestations that should prompt the clinician to consider the possibility of fungal lung infection. In addition, current approaches for the diagnosis of these infection are also reviewed. Heightened awareness of fungal lung infection, and appropriate use of the available diagnostic modalities, will permit appropriate treatment of these important clinical infections in immune-compromised individuals.