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Broth Microdilution In Vitro Screening: An Easy and Fast Method to Detect New Antifungal Compounds
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Pediatric antifungal agents

Michael Cohen-Wolkowiez1, Cassandra Moran, Daniel K Benjamin

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Duke University, Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC 27715, USA.

Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases
|September 11, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

New antifungal drugs show promise for children, but more research is needed. Current dosing relies on adult data, highlighting the need for pediatric-specific antifungal studies to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Invasive fungal infections pose a significant threat to immunocompromised children.
  • Recent advancements have expanded the range of available antifungal therapies.
  • Understanding the use of these agents in pediatric populations is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current literature on antifungal agents in pediatric patients.
  • To highlight progress in pediatric antifungal pharmacokinetics and safety.
  • To identify gaps in knowledge and future research needs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on antifungal agents.
  • Focus on pediatric data, including pharmacokinetics and safety.
  • Analysis of newer agents, such as echinocandins.

Main Results:

  • Limited pediatric-specific data exists for many antifungal agents.
  • Progress has been made in understanding the pharmacokinetics and safety of newer antifungals in children.
  • Echinocandins represent a class with emerging pediatric data.

Conclusions:

  • Current antifungal dosing in children often extrapolates from adult data.
  • Childhood developmental changes significantly impact drug pharmacokinetics.
  • Pediatric-focused clinical trials are essential for establishing evidence-based dosing guidelines.

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