Invasive aspergillosis in children and adolescents.

Invasive aspergillosis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised children. Disease control depends on prevention, early diagnosis, predictive microbiological information, prompt and appropriate treatment and restoration of host defenses. Relative to adults, invasive aspergillosis in children and adolescents is unique in its clinical presentation, epidemiology, and in particular, the utility of newer diagnostic tools and the pharmacokinetics of active antifungal agents. Here we review the presentation and epidemiology of invasive aspergillosis in children and adolescents and discuss the value of current diagnostic tools and strategies and options for treatment and prevention in this special population.