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Whole Genome Sequencing of Candida glabrata for Detection of Markers of Antifungal Drug Resistance
Published on: December 28, 2017
Antifungal drug combinations for Cryptococcus neoformans and Prototheca spp
S Srimuang1, C Prariyachatigul, A Chaiprasert
1Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.
Summary
The combination of amphotericin B and rifampin effectively reduced minimal inhibitory concentrations for Cryptococcus neoformans. Amphotericin B with flucytosine showed minimal impact on susceptibility.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
Background:
- Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen causing cryptococcosis.
- Antifungal drug resistance is a growing concern in treating fungal infections.
- Evaluating combination therapies is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the in vitro synergistic effects of amphotericin B combined with flucytosine or rifampin against Cryptococcus neoformans.
- To determine the impact of these combinations on the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of amphotericin B.
Main Methods:
- Broth dilution methods were employed to test susceptibility.
- Seventy-one Cryptococcus neoformans and 5 Prototheca spp. isolates were analyzed.
- In vitro susceptibility was evaluated against amphotericin B alone and in combination with flucytosine (5-FC) and rifampin.
Main Results:
- The combination of amphotericin B and rifampin demonstrated a significant reduction in amphotericin B's MIC.
- Amphotericin B combined with flucytosine showed little to no reduction in MIC compared to amphotericin B monotherapy.
- Rifampin exhibited a synergistic effect when combined with amphotericin B.
Conclusions:
- Rifampin shows promise as an adjunct therapy to amphotericin B for Cryptococcus neoformans infections.
- Flucytosine does not appear to enhance the in vitro activity of amphotericin B against this pathogen.
- Combination therapy with amphotericin B and rifampin warrants further investigation for clinical efficacy.
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