Pathogenesis of Scedosporium

Invasive scedosporiosis is a severe fungal infection, caused by species of the genus Scedosporium (Pseudallescheria teleomorph), usually refractory to treatment and with a common fatal outcome. Although the pathogenesis mechanisms involved in these infections are poorly known some progress has been made in recent years. This paper revises the available data on the experimental virulence and in the identification of virulence factors determinants, as well as the role of the host immune response in the control of the infection. In addition, the basic conditions needed for the invasion and dissemination of Scedosporium in the human body are described and discussed.