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Current and future therapy of invasive fungal infections
1Yale University School of Medicine, Connecticut, USA.
Abstract:
Major increases in the incidence of systemic fungal infections have been observed during the past three decades, particularly in immunocompromised patients. A critical need exists for new antifungal agents to treat these life-threatening invasive fungal infections. The review of the development of antifungal therapy provided in this chapter indicates the increased interest in this very special area of infectious diseases. Even though newer and less toxic antifungal agents are currently available for clinical use, innovative research in antifungal drug discovery may eventually produce more promising antifungal agents.
Insights
Systemic fungal infections are rising, especially in immunocompromised individuals. New antifungal therapies are crucial for treating these dangerous infections, with ongoing research aiming for more effective drugs.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Mycology
Background:
- Significant rise in systemic fungal infections over 30 years.
- Increased incidence particularly in immunocompromised patient populations.
- Life-threatening nature of invasive fungal infections necessitates urgent therapeutic solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development of antifungal therapy.
- To highlight the growing scientific interest in antifungal drug discovery.
- To underscore the need for novel antifungal agents.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antifungal therapy development.
- Analysis of trends in systemic fungal infection incidence.
- Assessment of current and future antifungal drug research.
Main Results:
- Growing body of research focused on antifungal drug development.
- Availability of newer, less toxic antifungal agents.
- Continued need for innovative antifungal agents due to evolving resistance and patient populations.
Conclusions:
- Antifungal therapy is a rapidly evolving field of infectious disease research.
- Despite advances, a critical need persists for novel antifungal agents.
- Future research holds promise for more effective treatments against invasive fungal infections.