[Innovations in the management of Candida infections]

The increasing incidence of Candida infections fueled by novel host factors and the rising prevalence of drug-resistant Candida isolates are growing global concerns. Outbreaks of C. auris and fluconazole-resistant C. parapsilosis are reported globally, posing a major threat to immunocompromised and critically ill patients. The rising resistance to azoles and echinocandins among C. glabrata presents additional challenges. In May 2025, the European Confederation of Medical Mycology (ECMM) published a new global guideline on the diagnosis and management of Candida infections. Notable updates include the use of a revised taxonomy, an increased focus on non-albicans Candida species, and recommendations on newly approved antifungal agents. New breakpoints have been published by EUCAST for C. auris. The newly licensed echinocandin Rezafungin broadens the therapeutic options available for invasive candidiasis. Ibrexafungerp and Fosmanogepix are promising alternative treatment options for systemic Candida infections in late-stage clinical development.