Which fungal organism is a common cause of opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals?

The chosen answer, Candida spp., is recognized as a significant opportunistic pathogen, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. This genus includes various species that are part of the normal flora in humans, usually found in mucosal surfaces, such as the oral cavity and the gastrointestinal tract. However, when the immune system is weakened—due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, chemotherapy, or the use of immunosuppressive drugs—Candida species can overgrow and lead to infections. These infections can range from superficially affecting the skin or mucous membranes, like oral thrush or vaginitis, to more invasive forms, resulting in systemic candidiasis, which can be life-threatening.

As for the other options, while they also include important fungal organisms associated with opportunistic infections, they have differing prevalences and contexts. Aspergillus spp. are known to cause infections primarily in individuals with severe immunocompromise, such as those with prolonged neutropenia. Histoplasma spp. is more commonly associated with systemic infections in patients with preexisting conditions affecting immunity but is less prevalent than Candida in the context of widespread opportunistic infections. Cryptococcus spp. is a significant pathogen particularly in individuals with advanced HIV infection, known for causing cryptococcal