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Pseudallescheriasis in the 21st century
1The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA. tobryan@psu.edu
Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy
|October 7, 2005
Summary
Pseudallescheria boydii (Scedosporium apiospermum) causes invasive infections in immunocompromised patients. Voriconazole shows promise as a primary treatment for this emerging opportunistic pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Pseudallescheria boydii, also known as Scedosporium apiospermum, is an emerging opportunistic pathogen.
- It causes invasive mycosis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Diagnosis can be delayed due to its resemblance to aspergillosis and poor response to amphotericin B.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the microbiology, ecology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of pseudallescheriasis.
- To highlight the role of voriconazole in managing infections caused by this fungus.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published data.
- Analysis of in vitro studies, animal models, and clinical case reports.
Main Results:
- Pseudallescheriasis presents a wide clinical spectrum, including invasive lung and CNS disease.
- The organism exhibits resistance to amphotericin B.
- Voriconazole demonstrates efficacy in vitro, in animal models, and in clinical settings.
Conclusions:
- Pseudallescheria boydii (Scedosporium apiospermum) is a significant cause of invasive fungal infections.
- Voriconazole is a recommended primary treatment option for pseudallescheriasis.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and manage this emerging pathogen.