Diseases
serious fungal infections
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Fungal infections are any disease or condition you get from a fungus. They usually affect your skin, hair, nails or mucous membranes but they can also infect your lungs or other parts of your body. You’re at higher risk for fungal infections if you have a weakened immune system. Antifungal medications are usually used to treat fungal infections.
Symptoms
- itching, soreness, redness or rash in the affected area.
- discolored, thick or cracked nails.
- pain while eating, loss of taste or white patches in mouth or throat.
- a painless lump under your skin.
Causes
- yeast, molds and other types of fungus cause fungal infections. most fungi don’t cause disease in people, but a few do
Risk factors
- dampness and humidity.
- suppressed immune system
Diagnosis
- skin or other affected tissue.
- blood.
- phlegm (sputum).
- fluid around your brain and spinal cord (cns fluid).
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is serious fungal infections?
Fungal infections are any disease or condition you get from a fungus. They usually affect your skin, hair, nails or mucous membranes but they can also infect your lungs or other parts of your body. You’re at higher risk for fungal infections if you have a weakened immune system. Antifungal medications are usually used to treat fungal infections.
What are the symptoms of serious fungal infections?
itching, soreness, redness or rash in the affected area., discolored, thick or cracked nails., pain while eating, loss of taste or white patches in mouth or throat., a painless lump under your skin.
What causes serious fungal infections?
yeast, molds and other types of fungus cause fungal infections. most fungi don’t cause disease in people, but a few do
Which medicines are used for serious fungal infections?
amphotericin b, amphotericin b liposomal, voriconazole
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