Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in the ICU: the corticosteroid link

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a life-threatening fungal infection traditionally associated with severely immunocompromised hosts, particularly those with hematologic malignancies. However, its epidemiological profile has shifted in recent years, with a rising incidence among critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs), many of whom lack classical risk factors. This change is driven by increased use of corticosteroids and immunomodulatory therapies, the growing prevalence of chronic lung disease, and severe viral pneumonias such as influenza and COVID-19. In these patients, airway epithelial injury, immune dysregulation, and mechanical ventilation facilitate fungal invasion even in the…

• GS
  Gilead Sciences
• EC
  European Commission
• AD
  Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca

  Award: SGR 01324 Q5856414G
• ID
  Instituto de Salud Carlos III

  Awards: ICI21/00103, PI24/01776