Overview of fungal pneumonia

Although fungal species are often identified by culture of respiratory tract samples, this usually represents colonisation. Antifungal therapy is rarely indicated for patients without immune compromise, even in patients who are intubated. Isolation of fungal species from cultures of respiratory tract samples in patients with immune compromise is more likely to be pathogenic.

For the treatment of fungal pneumonia, expert advice is essential. Duration of treatment depends on clinical response and, if possible, resolution of immunosuppression.

For detailed information about fungal infections, including the management of infections not covered in this topic, consult specialist guidelines (eg Australasian Consensus Guidelines for the use of antifungal agents in the haematology-oncology setting).

For management of pneumonia when fungal organisms have been identified in respiratory tract samples, see:

• Candida species identified from respiratory tract samples
• Aspergillosis
• Cryptococcosis
• Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP).