title: Overview of treatment options for invasive fungal infections.
abstract: The introduction of several new antifungals has significantly expanded both prophylaxis and treatment options for invasive fungal infections (IFIs). Relative to amphotericin B deoxycholate, lipid-based formulations of amphotericin B have significantly reduced the incidence of nephrotoxicity, but at a significant increase in drug acquisition cost. Newer, broad-spectrum triazoles (notably voriconazole and posaconazole) have added significantly to both the prevention and treatment of IFIs, most notably Aspergillus spp. (with voriconazole) and the treatment of some emerging fungal pathogens. Finally, a new class of parenteral antifungals, the echinocandins, is employed most frequently against invasive candidal infections. While the role of these newer agents continues to evolve, this review summarizes the activity, safety and clinical applications of agents most commonly employed in the treatment of IFIs.
authors.affiliation: Campbell University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA. melanie.pound@nhrmc.org
authors.forename: Melanie W
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Pound
authors.forename: Mary L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Townsend
authors.forename: Vincent
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Dimondi
authors.forename: Dustin
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.forename: Richard H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Drew
mesh_terms: D000935:Antifungal Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D018890:Chemoprevention / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D009181:Mycoses / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D000935:Antifungal Agents