Anti-infective treatment of fungal infections by Candida and Aspergillus

Abstract

Invasive fungal infections caused by Candida or Aspergillus are associated with ahigh mortality. Knowledge about the risk factors, diagnosis and treatment management is crucial for improving the survival of those affected. To give a practical overview about risk factors and treatment management of Candida and Aspergillus infections as well as providing an outlook on new antifungal agents. Summary of the relevant literature and recommendations on candidemia and invasive candidiasis as well as invasive and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. The first line treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis are echinocandins including caspofungin, anidulafungin and micafungin. Regular blood cultures have to be taken to determine the duration of treatment. After the first negative control blood culture treatment should be continued for another 14days. The first line treatment of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis is azoles including voriconazole and isavuconazole. The duration of treatment depends on disease severity and is recommended for 6-12weeks. The duration of treatment for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is 6-12months. Therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended for voriconazole and for posaconazole. New antifungal agents including olorofim, fosmanogepix, opelconazole, rezafungin or ibrexafungerp will broaden the therapeutic spectrum in the foreseeable future. Knowledge about risk factors and the correct treatment management is crucial for the survival of patients with invasive fungal infections.