Fungal infections in patients with acute leukemia

Patients with acute leukemia often undergo intensive chemotherapy, which leaves them highly vulnerable to serious fungal infections. This review looks at patterns of such infections, with a focus on Candida and Aspergillus species, which are the most common culprits. Our findings show that these infections are frequently underdiagnosed during life and are often only confirmed after death. Persistent fever that does not respond to antibiotics, low white blood cell counts, and organ involvement-especially of the lungs and liver were the main warning signs. While antifungal therapy with amphotericin B can improve outcomes, delays in diagnosis and hesitation to start treatment often led to poor survival. We emphasize that early recognition of symptoms and timely initiation of antifungal therapy, even before laboratory confirmation, can save lives. The study highlights the need for more accurate diagnostic tools and safer antifungal options to reduce mortality in this already fragile group of patients.