Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis in Acute Leukemia: Current Issues for Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a frequently life-threatening fungal infection that complicates acute leukemia patients following conventional chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation. The mortality rate reaches 50% in leukemic patients during chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and can exceed 90% in bone marrow transplantation patients. Despite advances in antimicrobial therapy and supportive care, IPA remains a major clinical problem in patients with acute leukemia. Current issues for IPA in adults are reviewed.