Sienitautien

Sienitautien, or fungal diseases, are infections caused by fungi. They can affect humans, animals, and plants and range from harmless superficial conditions to invasive diseases that threaten life. Fungi responsible include yeasts, molds, and dimorphic species that can behave differently depending on environmental conditions.

In humans, common pathogens include Candida species, causing mucosal and systemic candidiasis; Aspergillus species, causing pulmonary and invasive disease; Cryptococcus; and dermatophytes such as Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton, responsible for ringworm and other tinea infections. In plants, fungal diseases comprise powdery mildews, rusts, blights, and other infections that reduce yield and quality. In animals, fungi can cause skin infections or systemic diseases, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Fungal spores are widespread in air, soil, and organic matter and may be inhaled, ingested, or come into contact with skin or mucous membranes. Risk factors for invasive or difficult infections include immunosuppression (such as HIV infection or chemotherapy), diabetes, prolonged antibiotic use, humid conditions or trauma, and exposure during hospital procedures or surgeries.

Diagnosis typically combines clinical assessment with laboratory tests, including microscopic examination, culture, and molecular methods (such as PCR), as well as antigen or antibody assays and imaging for suspected invasive disease. Treatment depends on the pathogen and site and often involves antifungal medications from different classes, such as azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins; topical therapies are common for superficial infections. Prevention focuses on hygiene, moisture control, infection control in healthcare settings, and, in agriculture, resistant varieties and fungicide use.