Italian guidelines for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of invasive fungal infections in solid organ transplant recipients

Use of various induction regimens, of novel immunosuppressive agents, and of newer prophylactic strategies continues to change the pattern of infections among solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. Although invasive fungal infections (IFIs) occur at a lower incidence than bacterial and viral infections in this population, they remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In March 2008, a panel of Italian experts on fungal infections and organ transplantation convened in Castel Gandolfo (Rome) to develop consensus guidelines for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of IFIs among SOT recipients. We discussed the definitions, microbiological and radiological diagnoses, prophylaxis, empirical treatment, and therapy of established disease. Throughout the consensus document, recommendations as clinical guidelines were rated according to the standard scoring system of the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the United Stated Public Health Service.