Fungal infections in neutropenia: current problems and chemotherapeutic control.

Invasive fungal infection is a significant problem in neutropenic individuals. The commonest causes of infection are Aspergillus and Candida spp., although a growing number of other organisms (including species of Fusarium and Trichosporon) have been implicated. The clinical manifestations of these infections are described here, and diagnostic problems are discussed. The role of lipid-based formulations of amphotericin B, and of the triazole compounds, itraconazole and fluconazole, in the treatment and prevention of fungal infection is discussed.