[Chronic granulomatous disease: pathogenesis and therapy of associated fungal infections]

Abstract

Chronic granulomatous disease is a genetic disorder responsible for a defect in the NADPH oxidase of phagocytic cells. It impairs the oxidative burst necessary to the intracellular inactivation of microorganisms and predisposes to an increased risk of infections by various microorganisms, including fungi like Aspergillus spp. and other less frequently encountered or emerging fungal species. Here we review the genetic basis, pathogenesis and clinical presentation associated with fungal infections in chronic granulomatous disease as well as the current prophylaxis and newly available therapies.