Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026

An Ex vivo Assay to Study Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Published on: July 1, 2020
Recent advances and challenges in the treatment of invasive fungal infections
Pei-Lan Shao1, Li-Min Huang, Po-Ren Hsueh
1Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
Abstract:
The frequency of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) has increased over the last decade with the rise in at-risk populations of patients. The morbidity and mortality of IFIs are high and management of these conditions is a great challenge. With the widespread adoption of antifungal prophylaxis, the epidemiology of invasive fungal pathogens has changed. Non-albicans Candida, non-fumigatus Aspergillus and moulds other than Aspergillus have become increasingly recognised causes of invasive diseases. These emerging fungi are characterised by resistance or lower susceptibility to standard antifungal agents. Invasive infections due to these previously rare fungi are therefore more difficult to treat. Recently developed antifungal agents provide the potential to improve management options and therapeutic outcomes of these infections. The availability of more potent and less toxic antifungal agents, such as second-generation triazoles and echinocandins, has led to considerable improvement in the treatment of IFIs. This article reviews the changing spectrum of invasive mycosis, the properties of recently developed antifungal agents and their role in the management of these infections.
Insights
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are rising, with new fungal strains showing resistance to standard treatments. Newer antifungal agents offer improved outcomes for these challenging infections.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Increasing incidence of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) due to growing at-risk patient populations.
- High morbidity and mortality associated with IFIs present significant clinical challenges.
- Shifting epidemiology of IFIs driven by antifungal prophylaxis, with emerging resistant fungal species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolving landscape of invasive mycoses.
- To discuss the characteristics of newly developed antifungal agents.
- To evaluate the role of novel antifungals in managing IFIs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on IFIs and antifungal agents.
- Analysis of epidemiological trends in invasive fungal pathogens.
- Evaluation of the properties and clinical applications of new antifungal drugs.
Main Results:
- Emergence of non-albicans Candida, non-fumigatus Aspergillus, and other molds as significant pathogens.
- These emerging fungi exhibit reduced susceptibility to conventional antifungal therapies.
- Recently developed agents, including second-generation triazoles and echinocandins, show promise.
Conclusions:
- The changing spectrum of IFIs necessitates updated treatment strategies.
- Novel antifungal agents offer improved efficacy and safety profiles.
- Effective management of IFIs relies on understanding emerging pathogens and utilizing advanced therapies.
Related Concept Videos
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Antifungal Agents
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Endocarditis III: Medical Management
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
