Infections are the most common complication and major cause
of morbidity and mortality in patients with cancer. Fever
remains the only indicator of infection in this group of
patients. The list of potential pathogens includes both conventional
microorganisms and opportunistic agents. The epidemiological
pattern of infections in patients with cancer is influenced
by the following factors: 1) the severity and duration of
neutropenia, 2) the nature of antineoplastic therapy, 3) host
related factors, 4) the use of chemoprophylaxis and/or empirical
antibiotic therapy, 5) the use of external medical devices
such as central venous catheters, 6) environmental factors, and
7) duration of hospital stay. This article will focus on current
challenges associated with opportunistic infections.
Keywords: Fever; infection; cancer
