25 For many other fungi and for Pneumocystis, the normal host is essentially protected from the organism. Disease occurs almost exclusively as a consequence of an underlying illness or a breakdown of normal defense mechanisms. Aspergillus is perhaps the most important fungus of this sort and is the main one considered in this chapter. Pneumocystis, which has a debatable taxonomic status, is considered both in this chapter and in the discussion of AIDS in Chapter 26. The less common fungi (e.g., Mucor and Candida) and protozoa (e.g., Toxoplasma) affecting the immunosuppressed host are not considered in detail here, but further information can be obtained from the references at the end of this chapter.
Miscellaneous Infections Caused by Fungi and Pneumocystis