Abstract

Opportunistic fungi are a constantly evolving group of pathogens that When the immune system cannot raise an adequate response, they are activated, begin to multiply, and soon overwhelm the body's weakened defenses. This study was performed to evaluate the amount of opportunistic fungi in BAL samples of diverse group of patients by interpreting the results of the study based on direct examination and culture methods. After receiving patientsâ?? consent forms, and biography,a total of 120 BAL samples was taken by a pulmonary physician, and a part of the sample transferred to mycology laboratory for microbial examinations. From each BAL sample, 100 μl was cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and for microscopic observation the sample was centrifuged and two smear was prepared from the sediment using Giemsa staining and 10% KOH. Yeast cells were counted on SDA and Direct smears were precisely examined for presence of yeasts or pseudohyphae, pneumocystis and filamentous fungi.