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The utility of antifungal agents for asthma

Robin B Gore1

  • 1The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University Hospitals of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK. robin.gore@manchester.ac.uk

Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
|October 31, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Patients with refractory asthma may benefit from antifungal treatments due to fungal sensitization. Further research is needed to optimize patient selection and treatment protocols for this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Allergy and Immunology
  • Pulmonology
  • Environmental Health

Background:

  • Refractory asthma is often linked to environmental fungal sensitization.
  • Ubiquitous exposure to environmental fungi and potential airway colonization contribute to asthma severity.
  • Antifungal therapies show promise for improving quality of life in affected patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of fungal sensitization in refractory asthma.
  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of antifungal treatments for refractory asthma.
  • To identify areas for future research in fungal-asthma interactions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on fungal sensitization and refractory asthma.
  • Analysis of evidence regarding fungal exposure, colonization, and asthma severity.
  • Assessment of clinical trial data on antifungal treatments in asthma.

Main Results:

  • Fungal sensitization is prevalent in patients with refractory asthma.
  • Antifungal treatments generally improve asthma-related quality of life.
  • Potential side-effects of antifungal therapies require consideration; mechanisms are under investigation.

Conclusions:

  • Antifungal treatments are utilized for refractory asthma in some clinical settings.
  • Further research is essential for patient selection, treatment duration, and managing drug interactions.
  • Understanding the fungal molecular allergome and hyphal fragments can refine the link between fungal sensitization, exposure, and asthma severity.

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