Opportunistic Infections
An opportunistic infection is an infection caused by a pathogen (a type of microorganism) that usually causes no harm to a healthy individual. However, in an individual with weakened immunity, an opportunistic infection can become life-threatening. This is because the immune system of a person suffering from HIV/AIDS, cancer or organ transplant recipients, is too weak to fight off an opportunistic infection. The most common opportunistic infections are Pneumocystis pneumonia, Cryptococcus, Mycobacterium avium complex, cytomegalovirus and Candida. Treatments for opportunistic infections include antibiotics, antifungal drugs, antivirals and antiretrovirals. The early detection and treatment of opportunistic infections can result in successful management and an improved quality of life for the patients.
← International Journal of Clinical Microbiology