The Importance of and Increasing Need for Rapid Detection of Mycotic Agents

Abstract

One of the major objectives of the Sixth Congress on Rapid Methods & Automation is to provide a scientific forum for papers dealing with rapid diagnosis, detection, and identification of microorganisms to improve our health, our environment, and our quality of life. The preceding papers have dealt with currently available technology that emphasizes rapid detection of several groups of fungi that are overt or covert pathogens of humans; one paper describes management of AIDS patients with systemic mycotic infections and emphasizes the problems of complicating fungal infections that resist treatment or are difficult to control. The information in the preceding papers is enlightening and indicates the progress is being made. However, it is my strong belief that we are moving too slowly and that unnecessary morbidity and mortality due to mycotic diseases are increasing and undesirably so.