Interactions of phagocytic cells with Candida and other opportunistic fungi.

Phagocytic host defense mechanisms play a pivotal role in the prevention and containment of invasive, disseminated candidiasis, aspergillosis, and other opportunistic mycoses. The specific processes involved depend upon both the species, growth phase, and surface properties of the fungal target and the type and differentiation of the effector phagocyte. The nature and outcome of phagocyte-fungal interactions are also influenced by definable surface features of the organisms, binding of opsonic serum components, triggering of particular phagocyte plasma membrane receptors, and modulating effects of both fungal products and host cytokines. Broadening insights into specific interactive cellular mechanisms promise to provide new strategies for identifying high risk patients and preventing or successfully treating potentially fatal, progressive fungal infections.