Sporotrichosis: a Comprehensive Review on Recent Drug-Based Therapeutics and Management

Over a period of time, sporotrichosis has arisen as one of the leading fungal infections not only in animals but humans also. Several possible reasons that contribute to its emergence include change in epidemiology and distribution, evolutionary changes in taxonomy, and several outbreaks. World Health Organization has identified sporotrichosis as one of the major neglected tropical diseases (NTD) for 2021-2030 under the category of fungal NTDs. Several factors are contributing to increases in morbidity due to sporotrichosis such as delayed diagnosis and unavailability of appropriate antifungal therapy, which lead to redundant and inappropriate treatment with associate costs and adverse effects.

The potassium iodide is the first line of treatment for cutaneous forms while amphotericin B is used for the most severe cases of the disease. The limited medication arsenal, side effects, failure of therapy, and the advent of drug-resistant isolates emphasize the need for the development of new therapeutic options. Several studies are focusing on the development of the new drugs which either used alone or in combination with already available treatment. Along with this, several new antigens have been identified as possible targets for its vaccine development.

The early diagnosis is required for selecting the best possible treatment strategy. The researchers should focus on developing new diagnostic methods and treatment options as well as vaccine development for the better management of sporotrichosis. In the long run, patient education for preventative features to reduce risk and counselling for prolonged therapy will be beneficial.