Paschalis Vergidis, M.D.

Location

SUMMARY

Invasive fungal infections present a serious global health threat. The research of Paschalis Vergidis, M.D., is focused on the epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of candidiasis, aspergillosis and endemic mycoses.

Focus areas

• Epidemiology. Dr. Vergidis is studying the epidemiology, clinical characteristics and outcomes of endemic fungal infections (histoplasmosis and blastomycosis).
• Diagnostics. Dr. Vergidis is evaluating the clinical performance of serologic assays and nonculture-based diagnostics. This work is conducted in collaboration with Elitza S. Theel, Ph.D. and Nancy L. Wengenack, Ph.D.
• Therapeutics. Dr. Vergidis is evaluating the role of genetic testing in informing individualized antifungal treatment. He is also involved in clinical trials of novel antifungal agents.

Significance to patient care

Invasive diseases caused by fungi have a profound impact on human health and are associated with high mortality. These infections typically occur in individuals with impaired host defenses, but occasionally fungi can affect healthy individuals. Emergence of fungi resistant to antifungal agents presents a growing threat. Dr. Vergidis' research will lead to more accurate diagnoses and earlier institution of antifungal treatments, which are of paramount importance in improving patient outcomes.