The Fungi Within

Preliminary surveys have revealed several pathogenic species that may increase one’s risk of disease when the healthy microbiome is disrupted. For example, Candida species are among the most common members of the human mycobiome. When the balance of a microbial community is disrupted, Candida species can flourish and cause disease (candidiasis, or “thrush,” when it develops in the mouth or throat).

BODY LOCATION	GENERA IDENTIFIED	DETAILS
ORAL CAVITY	• Alternaria • Aspergillus • Aureobasidium • Candida • Cladosporium • Cryptococcus • Fusarium • Gibberella • Glomus • Pichia • Saccharomyces • Teratosphaeria	Pathogenic fungi such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Cryptococcus species are common residents, and may increase the risk of invasive fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised patients.
LUNGS	• Aspergillus • Candida • Cladosporium • Penicillium • Cryptococcus	Pathogenic species such as Candida albicans are found in patients with cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and other lung diseases, as well...