ABSTRACT
Many serious cancers can now be treated effectively. Infectious complications, however, continue to be a frequent cause of morbidity, and often a leading cause of death, despite the remarkable progress that has been made in their recognition, prevention, and therapy. This dichotomy stems from the intensification of present-day drug and irradiation treatment regimens that have, in actuality, only been possible because of refinements in supportive care. Although survival has improved, the price has been a continued and even increased predisposition to infection.
