Abstract
The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is unique among the fungal infections caused by defects of the immune system. A complex interplay exists in the host between fungal virulence factors favoring disease, and immune and non-immune host mechanisms defending against disease. Moreover, the host defenses necessary to prevent mycoses are unique for each fungus. While neutrophils are essential in the defense against aspergillosis and deep-seated candidiasis, cellular immunity appears of paramount importance in defense against histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis and mucocutaneous candidiasis.
The most severely afflicted is the domain responsible for mediating cellular immunity in AIDS. Therefore, mucocutaneous candidiasis is especially common in patients with AIDS, whereas deepseated candidiasis is more prevalent in neutropenic patients.
