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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Histological Quantification to Determine Lung Fungal Burden in Experimental Aspergillosis
Published on: March 9, 2018
[Invasive aspergillosis: treatment]
P Saballs-Radresa1, J L López-Colomés, J Gimeno-Cobos
1Hospital del Mar, Passeig Marítim 25-29, 08003 Barcelona, España. 12822@imas.imim.es
Abstract:
Invasive aspergillosis is a severe disease, affecting essentially congenital or acquired immunodepressed patients, as well as neutropenic or transplanted ones, and those undergoing prolonged chemotherapy or treatment with corticoids. At present, the physician only disposes of the following treatment: amphotericin B desoxycolate, lipidic amphotericins and itraconazole p.o. or intravenously. Very soon, other drugs like voriconazole, posaconazole, liposomal nystatin and echinocandins probably will have a role in the treatment. It is most important to know thoroughly the patients's base disease and its specific treatment and the role of the drugs at present available, their relevant dosage, biodisponibility and pharmacokinetics, as well as adverse effects and evidence-based criterions of application. It is very important indeed to maintain a high suspicion of the disease and a rapid start of treatment. It is equally important to assess the role of coadjuvant treatments. We insist in the importance of surgery in solving of the disease in some cases (progressive pulmonar aspergillosis, sinusitis) combined with appropriate antifungal treatment.
Insights
Invasive aspergillosis is a serious fungal infection primarily impacting immunocompromised patients. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with available or emerging antifungal therapies, alongside potential surgical intervention, are crucial for patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Pharmacology
Context:
- Invasive aspergillosis poses a significant threat to immunocompromised individuals, including those with congenital or acquired immunodeficiencies, neutropenia, organ transplants, or undergoing chemotherapy and corticosteroid therapy.
- Current treatment options for invasive aspergillosis are limited, necessitating a thorough understanding of available antifungals.
Purpose:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of current and emerging therapeutic strategies for invasive aspergillosis.
- To emphasize the importance of understanding patient-specific factors, drug pharmacokinetics, and evidence-based treatment criteria.
Summary:
- The review details existing treatments such as amphotericin B deoxycholate, lipid formulations, and itraconazole, and anticipates the future roles of voriconazole, posaconazole, liposomal nystatin, and echinocandins.
- It highlights the critical need for high clinical suspicion, rapid initiation of antifungal therapy, and consideration of adjuvant treatments, including surgery for specific manifestations like pulmonary aspergillosis and sinusitis.
Impact:
- This information is vital for clinicians managing invasive aspergillosis, enabling informed treatment decisions and improved patient management.
- Optimizing antifungal therapy and surgical interventions can lead to better clinical outcomes and reduced mortality in this vulnerable patient population.
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