The Opportunistic fungi comprise a large and diverse group,. They are the 'practically harmless fungi' which can become pathogenic in an immune compromised host.
	A compromised host is one which has a lowered resistance to infection due to lowered immune system. e.g. cancer/leukaemia patients, HIV sufferers, alcoholics etc,
	ENTRY INTO THE BODY Most opportunistic fungi are harmless in a healthy individual, and the immune system will overcome them before they cause disease.. When the individual becomes immune-compromised in some way, the fungus takes advantage of this and causes disease.
	The commonest opportunistic infections are caused by Candida albicans or Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus flavus, and Pneumocystis carinii
	Aspergillosis - Organisms causing Aspergillosis Candidiasis - Organisms causing Candidiasis Pneumocystic Pneumonia Main Mycoses Menu