Mycology and Fungal Diseases examines fungal pathogens that cause superficial, subcutaneous, and systemic infections in humans. Fungi are ubiquitous in the environment, yet only a subset causes disease, often exploiting immune compromise, disrupted microbiota, or breaches in host barriers. In recent years, fungal infections have gained prominence due to expanding immunocompromised populations, climate-driven distribution shifts, and emerging antifungal resistance.

Fungal diseases range from common conditions such as dermatophytosis to life-threatening invasive infections caused by Candida, Aspergillus, and Cryptococcus species. Invasive mycoses disproportionately affect patients with cancer, organ transplants, critical illness, or prolonged antimicrobial exposure. Diagnosis is often challenging due to nonspecific symptoms and limited sensitivity of traditional tests. These challenges are frequently explored at Infectious Diseases Conference discussions, where advances in diagnostics and management are critically evaluated.

From a biological standpoint, fungal infection pathogenesis involves complex host–pathogen interactions. Fungi possess unique cell wall structures, metabolic pathways, and stress responses that influence virulence and immune recognition. Some species form biofilms or exhibit phenotypic switching, enhancing persistence and resistance to therapy. Host immune responses, particularly innate and cell-mediated immunity, determine susceptibility and clinical course.

Clinical management of fungal diseases requires timely identification and appropriate antifungal therapy. Delayed diagnosis significantly increases mortality in invasive infections. Limited antifungal drug classes, toxicity concerns, and drug–drug interactions complicate treatment decisions. Antifungal stewardship programs promote appropriate selection, dosing, and duration while preserving drug effectiveness.

Environmental and healthcare factors shape fungal disease risk. Hospital construction, ventilation systems, and contaminated devices can facilitate exposure to airborne spores. Climate change influences fungal ecology, expanding geographic ranges and altering seasonality. Surveillance and environmental controls are therefore essential components of prevention in both community and healthcare settings.

Research and innovation are transforming mycology. Molecular diagnostics, antigen detection assays, and genomic tools improve species identification and resistance detection. Investigational antifungals and immunotherapies offer new treatment avenues. Integrating these advances into clinical practice requires training, laboratory capacity, and guideline development.

Mycology and fungal diseases represent an evolving frontier in infectious disease control. Strengthening awareness, diagnostics, and therapeutic strategies is critical as fungal threats increase globally. Coordinated efforts across clinical care, laboratory science, and public health enhance preparedness and improve outcomes for patients affected by fungal infections.