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Broth Microdilution In Vitro Screening: An Easy and Fast Method to Detect New Antifungal Compounds
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A brief review of antifungal therapy for deep fungal infection

R J Muller1

  • 1Division of Pharmacy Services, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, USA.

Oncology (Williston Park, N.Y.)
|January 5, 2002
PubMed

Insights

The rise in fungal infections necessitates better systemic antifungal drugs. Recent advancements like liposomal amphotericin B and new itraconazole formulations are influencing treatment choices for deep fungal infections.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Increasing incidence of serious fungal infections, particularly in neutropenic patients.
  • Growing need for novel and enhanced systemic antifungal therapies.
  • Current treatment selection relies on spectrum of action, pharmacokinetics, toxicity, resistance, and cost.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current systemic antifungal agents.
  • To highlight recent advancements in antifungal therapy.
  • To discuss the impact of new formulations on clinical practice.

Main Methods:

  • Review of available systemic antifungal agents.
  • Analysis of criteria for antifungal drug selection by pharmacy and therapeutics committees.
  • Discussion of recent developments in amphotericin B and itraconazole formulations.

Main Results:

  • Established agents include conventional and liposomal amphotericin B, itraconazole, and fluconazole.
  • Recent lipid formulations of amphotericin B and improved itraconazole formulations (oral and IV) are available.
  • There is ongoing debate regarding optimal antifungal therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Newer antifungal formulations are significantly impacting drug selection and treatment strategies.
  • Continued research and development are crucial for addressing the challenge of fungal diseases.
  • Optimizing antifungal therapy requires balancing efficacy, safety, and cost.

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