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Published on: June 24, 2020
Hepatitis associated with micafungin use in a preterm infant
K Y King1, M S Edwards, B M Word
1Department of Pediatrics, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA. kyk@bcm.edu
Summary
Micafungin, an antifungal, may cause liver injury in infants. This case report highlights potential hepatitis and cholestasis, advising caution in young patients receiving this medication.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
Background:
- Micafungin is an echinocandin antifungal used for invasive fungal infections.
- Established dosing regimens for micafungin in infants are lacking.
- Protracted candidemia is a serious fungal infection in neonates and infants.
Observation:
- A premature infant received micafungin for candidemia.
- The infant developed hepatitis and cholestasis during treatment.
- These liver abnormalities occurred despite appropriate antifungal therapy.
Findings:
- Micafungin therapy was associated with the development of hepatitis and cholestasis in a premature infant.
- The exact mechanism of micafungin-induced liver injury in neonates is not fully understood.
- This adverse event suggests a potential risk of hepatotoxicity in young patients.
Implications:
- Clinicians should monitor liver function closely in infants receiving micafungin.
- Awareness of potential hepatotoxicity is crucial for safe pediatric use of micafungin.
- Further studies are needed to establish safe and effective micafungin dosing in infants.
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