Molecular Detection of Human Fungal Pathogens PDF

Preface

Fungi are a diverse group of eukaryotic organisms that range from yeasts, molds, mushrooms, lichens, rusts, smuts, to microsporidia. Forming a kingdom of their own and being ubiquitously distributed in all environments, most fungi are saprophytes involved in the decomposition and recycling of organic matters as well as in the formation of symbiotic relationship with plants and animals. However, some fungi have the capacity to cause diseases in plants, animals, and humans. Often occurring as a result of trauma or underlying immunosuppression, human mycoses may manifest as superficial, cutaneous, subcutaneous, or systemic diseases. The inability to distinguish human mycoses caused by various fungal pathogens on clinical ground necessitates the development and use of laboratory diagnostic procedures in order to facilitate their treatment and prevention.

Given their complex life cycle and their tendency to produce morphologically similar structures, fungi are notoriously difficult to identify on the basis of their macroscopic and microscopic features, even for an experienced mycologist. To increase the accuracy, sensitivity, and efficiency of fungal identification, molecular techniques such as PCR and nucleotide sequencing have been increasingly adopted and applied in research and clinical laboratories worldwide. Consequently, a large number of molecular protocols have been described in the literature for the identification and detection of fungal organisms. As the saying goes, one person's medicine could easily turn into another's poison. There is certainly no exception here. The overabundance of original protocols and subsequent modifications has created a dilemma for anyone who was not directly involved in their developments to know which are most appropriate to use for streamlined identification and detection of fungal organisms of interest.

With contributions from international scientists in respective fungal pathogen research and diagnosis, this book aims to provide a reliable and comprehensive source relating the molecular detection and identification of major human fungal pathogens. Each chapter consists of a brief review on the classification, epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnosis of one or a group of related fungal species; an outline of clinical sample collection and preparation procedures; a selection of representative stepwise molecular protocols; and a discussion on additional research for further improving the diagnosis. This book represents an indispensable tool for both upcoming and experienced medical, veterinary, and industrial laboratory scientists engaged in fungus characterization and provides an essential reference for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in mycology.

An all-encompassing book such as this clearly demands a concerted team's efforts. I am fortunate and extremely honored to have had a large group of international mycologists as chapter contributors, whose in-depth knowledge and technological insights into human fungal pathogen detection have significantly enriched this book. Additionally, the professionalism and dedication of executive editor Barbara Norwitz and senior project coordinator Jill Jurgensen at CRC Press have enhanced its presentation. Finally, without the understanding and support of my family, Liling Ma, Brenda, and Cathy, the compilation of this comprehensive book would have been unimaginable.