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Middle Eastern Expert Opinion: Strategies for Successful Antifungal Stewardship Program Implementation in Invasive
Jameela Alsalman1, Abdulhakeem Althaqafi2,3,4, Ahmad Alsaeed2,5
1Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, BHR.
Abstract:
In recent years, global public health efforts have increasingly emphasized the critical role of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in improving outcomes, reducing costs, and combating the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. However, antifungal stewardship (AFS) has remained relatively overlooked despite the staggering impact of invasive fungal infections (IFIs). This burden is particularly pronounced in hospitals worldwide, with the Middle East facing significant unmet needs. The rising population of immunocompromised individuals vulnerable to IFI has prompted an increased reliance on antifungal agents for both prevention and treatment. Given the considerable mortality associated with IFIs and the emergence of antifungal resistance, implementing AFS programs in hospital settings is becoming increasingly urgent. In this article, we offer expert insights into the strategies that can be used for successful antifungal stewardship program implementation in IFI. Drawing upon the extensive clinical experience of a multinational and multidisciplinary panel, we present recommendations for optimizing AFS practices. We delve into the challenges and practical considerations of tailoring local AFS initiatives to the evolving landscape of fungal infections. Additionally, we provide actionable recommendations and position statements for the effective implementation of AFS programs, informed by the collective clinical experiences of panel members across their respective countries of practice.
Insights
Antifungal stewardship (AFS) programs are crucial for combating invasive fungal infections (IFIs) and antifungal resistance, especially in hospitals. This article provides expert strategies for successful AFS implementation to improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Hospital Administration
Background:
- Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is recognized for improving outcomes and combating resistance.
- Antifungal stewardship (AFS) is overlooked despite the significant burden of invasive fungal infections (IFIs).
- IFIs pose a major threat, particularly to immunocompromised patients, necessitating effective antifungal use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide expert insights and actionable strategies for implementing antifungal stewardship (AFS) programs.
- To address the challenges and practical considerations in tailoring AFS initiatives for invasive fungal infections (IFIs).
- To offer recommendations and position statements for optimizing AFS practices in hospital settings.
Main Methods:
- Expert insights from a multinational and multidisciplinary panel.
- Analysis of clinical experiences in managing invasive fungal infections (IFIs).
- Development of actionable recommendations for antifungal stewardship (AFS) program implementation.
Main Results:
- Identification of key strategies for successful AFS program implementation.
- Discussion of challenges and practical considerations for local AFS initiatives.
- Provision of position statements for effective AFS program execution.
Conclusions:
- Implementing antifungal stewardship (AFS) programs is urgent to combat invasive fungal infections (IFIs) and resistance.
- Tailored AFS strategies are essential for optimizing antifungal use in diverse hospital settings.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration is key to advancing antifungal stewardship (AFS) practices globally.
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