Infections are among the most frequent complications in patients with hematological
malignancies and in those undergoing high-dose chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic stem
cell transplantation. A profound knowledge on the epidemiology diagnostic approaches
treatment modalities and prophylactic strategies is essential for the clinical management of
these complications in patients who are often severely immunocompromised owing to their
underlying diseases and in particular the intensive myelosuppressive chemo and immunotherapy.
This textbook provides a clinically oriented compact and up-to-date overview on infections in
hematology patients and their management. The typical pathogens to be considered in different
subgroups of patients are identified and further aspects of the microbiological background are
explored. Clinical imaging and laboratory-based diagnostic techniques are discussed and
therapeutic strategies appropriate to different situations are then presented with due
attention to the pitfalls toxicities and interactions that can arise during antimicrobial
treatment. Strategies to prevent infection are also outlined encompassing antimicrobial
prophylaxis isolation procedures hospital hygiene protective immunization and the use of
hematopoietic growth factors.
