Voriconazole compared with liposomal amphotericin B for empirical antifungal therapy in patients with neutropenia and persistent fever

Antifungal Therapy in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients

Invasive fungal infections (IFI) represent a major hindrance to the success of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), contributing substantially to morbidity and infection-related mortality. During the most recent years several reports indicate an overall increase of IFI among hematologic patients, in particular, invasive aspergillosis, that may be explained, at least partially, by the fact that diagnoses only suspected in the past, are now more easily established due to the application of serum biomarkers and early use of CT scan. Along with new diagnostic options, comes the recent development of novel antifungal agents that expanded the spectrum of activity over traditional treatments contributing to the successful management of fungal diseases. When introduced in 1959, Amphotericin B deoxycholate (d-AmB) was a life-saving drug, and the clinical experience over 50 years has proven that this compound is effective although toxic. Given the superior safety profile, lipid formulations of AmB have now replaced d-AmB in many circumstances. Similarly, echinocandins have been investigated as initial therapy for IA in several clinical trials including HSCT recipients, although the results were moderately disappointing leading to a lower grade of recommendation in the majority of published guidelines. Azoles represent the backbone of therapy for treating immunocompromised patients with IFI, including voriconazole and the newcomer isavuconazole; in addition, large studies support the use of mold-active azoles, namely voriconazole and posaconazole, as antifungal prophylaxis in HSCT recipients.

The aim of the present review is to summarize the clinical application of antifungal agents most commonly employed in the treatment of IFI.

Successful empirical antifungal therapy of intravenous itraconazole with pharmacokinetic evidence in pediatric cancer patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Empirical antifungal therapy prevents invasive fungal infections in patients with cancer. This study assessed the empirical efficacy of intravenous itraconazole in pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and investigated the pharmacokinetics and clinical implications.

METHODS

Oral itraconazole syrup was started (2.5 mg/kg twice daily) for prophylaxis, and patients with persistent neutropenic fever for more than 2 days were switched to intravenous itraconazole (5 mg/kg twice daily for 2 days for induction and 5 mg/kg daily for maintenance) as empirical treatment. Empirical antifungal efficacy was assessed retrospectively in 159 transplantations, and a full pharmacokinetic study was prospectively conducted in six of these patients. Successful antifungal efficacy was defined as the fulfillment of all components of a five-part composite end point.

RESULTS

The overall empirical antifungal success rate fulfilling all criteria was 42.1 %. No death or drug-related serious adverse events occurred during the study. Mean trough plasma concentration of itraconazole after oral prophylaxis and intravenous induction were 577.2 and 1659.7 μg/L, respectively. Mean area under the concentration-time curve of itraconazole and its metabolite at steady state were 42,837 ± 24,746 μg·h/L and 63,094 ± 19,255 μg·h/L.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous itraconazole was effective and safe as an empirical antifungal agent in pediatric patients; this was due to the fast and satisfactory increase in drug concentration by switching from oral to intravenous therapy.

[Strategies for antifungal treatment failure in intensive care units]

Recent epidemiologic studies reveal both an increasing incidence and an escalation in resistance of invasive fungal infections in intensive care units. Primary therapy fails in 70 % of cases, depending on the underlying pathogens and diseases. The purpose of this review is to raise awareness for the topic of antifungal therapy failure, describe the clinical conditions in which it occurs, and suggest a possible algorithm for handling the situation of suspected primary therapy failure.

Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Aspergillosis: 2016 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America

It is important to realize that guidelines cannot always account for individual variation among patients. They are not intended to supplant physician judgment with respect to particular patients or special clinical situations. IDSA considers adherence to these guidelines to be voluntary, with the ultimate determination regarding their application to be made by the physician in the light of each patient's individual circumstances.

Antifungal agents and liver toxicity: a complex interaction

INTRODUCTION

The number of antifungal agents has sharply increased in recent decades. Antifungals differ in their spectrum of activity, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties, dosing, safety-profiles and costs. Risk of developing antifungal associated hepatotoxicity is multifactorial and is influenced by pre-existing liver disease, chemical properties of the drug, patient demographics, comorbidities, drug-drug interactions, environmental and genetic factors. Antifungal related liver injury typically manifests as elevations in serum aminotransferase levels, although the clinical significance of these biochemical alterations is not always clear. Incidence rates of hepatotoxicity induced by antifungal therapy range widely, occurring most frequently in patients treated with azole antifungals for documented fungal infections.

AREAS COVERED

This review provides an update regarding the hepatotoxicity profiles of the modern systemic antifungals used in treatment of invasive fungal infections. Expert commentary: Understanding the likelihood and pattern of hepatotoxicity for all suspected drugs can aid the clinician in early detection of liver injury allowing for intervention and potential mitigation of liver damage. Therapeutic drug monitoring is emerging as a potential tool to assess risk for hepatotoxicity.

Comparison of micafungin and voriconazole as empirical antifungal therapies in febrile neutropenic patients with hematological disorders: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

In cases of hematological malignancy, patients with persistent fever and neutropenia receive antifungal empirical therapy to prevent and treat invasive fungal infections. The clinical efficacy and safety of micafungin and voriconazole were compared.

METHODS

In this randomized, cooperative group, open-label trial, we assessed and compared the efficacy and safety of micafungin and voriconazole as an empirical antifungal therapy in febrile neutropenic patients with hematological malignancy. Patients were classified according to invasive fungal infection risk.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in clinical efficacy between the two treatments, evaluated based on (i) successful treatment of baseline fungal infection (no evaluation), (ii) absence of breakthrough fungal infection (P = 0.106), (iii) survival for ≥7 days after study completion (P = 0.335), (iv) premature study discontinuation due to poor efficacy (P = 0.424), and (v) resolution of fever during neutropenia (P = 0.756). Discontinuation due to drug-related adverse events (grades 3-4) occurred less frequently in the micafungin group (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical efficacy did not differ between micafungin and voriconazole. Micafungin was generally better tolerated than voriconazole when given as an empirical antifungal therapy in patients with persistent fever and neutropenia.

Therapeutic drug monitoring of voriconazole in Japanese patients: analysis based on clinical practice data

The aim of this study was to investigate whether routine therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of voriconazole (VRCZ) reduced discontinuation due to hepatotoxicity. Hepatotoxicity was observed in 15 (51.7%) out of 29 patients. The percentages of patients who developed hepatotoxicity within 4 days and 1 week were 26.7 and 46.7%, respectively. The drug trough concentrations in patients with and without hepatotoxicity were 5.55 ± 2.73 and 2.36 ± 1.67 μg/ml (P < 0.01, the two-sided Student's t-test), respectively. Trough concentrations reached the target of 1-5 μg/ml in patients with gradual dose reductions based on TDM, and, consequently, liver enzyme levels returned to the original levels before the VRCZ treatment. All patients eventually continued effective VRCZ therapy despite its hepatotoxicity. Thus, dose adjustments by TDM to achieve the target trough concentrations is useful in order to avoid hepatotoxicity and enable continued effective VRCZ therapy for Japanese patients with invasive fungal infections.

Neurologic Adverse Events Associated with Voriconazole Therapy: Report of Two Pediatric Cases

Although voriconazole, a triazole antifungal, is a safe drug, treatment with this agent is associated with certain adverse events such as hepatic, neurologic, and visual disturbances. The current report presents two cases, one a 9-year-old boy and the other a 17-year-old girl, who experienced neurologic side effects associated with voriconazole therapy. Our aim is to remind readers of the side effects of voriconazole therapy in order to prevent unnecessary investigations especially for psychological and ophthalmologic problems. The first case was a 9-year-old boy with cystic fibrosis and invasive aspergillosis that developed photophobia, altered color sensation, and fearful visual hallucination. The second case was a 17-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, and she experienced photophobia, fatigue, impaired concentration, and insomnia, when the dose of voriconazole therapy was increased from 12 mg/kg/day to 16 mg/kg/day. The complaints of the two patients disappeared after discontinuation of voriconazole therapy. Our experience in these patients reminded us of the importance of being aware of the neurologic adverse events associated with voriconazole therapy in establishing early diagnosis and initiating prompt treatment. In addition, although serum voriconazole concentration was not measured in the present cases, therapeutic drug monitoring for voriconazole seems to be critically important in preventing neurologic side effects in pediatric patients.

Prolonged febrile neutropenia in the pediatric patient with cancer

Infectious diseases continue to be major causes of morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients with cancer. Yet not all pediatric patients with cancer with fever and neutropenia are at equal risk for substantial morbidity or mortality from infection. Patients at highest risk for developing infectious complications are those with severe and prolonged neutropenia, substantial medical comorbidity, and hematologic malignancy, or recipients of stem-cell transplantation. These "high-risk" patients also have concomitant host immune deficits as well: severe mucositis, lymphopenia, hypogammaglobulinemia, and gut microbial dysbiosis. Because bacterial and fungal infections are the most common infectious complications, continuation of empirical antibacterial antibiotics that were initiated at the onset of febrile neutropenia and prompt initiation of empirical antifungal therapy in the setting of prolonged fever and neutropenia continue to be the standard of care. In high-risk patients, antibiotic therapy should be maintained until neutrophil counts have recovered. Adjunctive therapies have been shown to be ineffective (e.g., colony-stimulating factors) or necessitate further study (e.g., granulocyte infusions or keratinocyte growth factor treatment to heal mucositis). Prophylactic use of antibacterial and antifungal antibiotics in high-risk patients has shown promise but the fear of inducing antimicrobial-resistant strains remains a deterrent. Finally, the novel concepts of manipulating the host gut microbiota and/or augmenting GI mucosal immunity to prevent invasive bacterial and fungal infections in pediatric patients with cancer offers great promise, but more definitive studies need to be performed.

Safety and efficacy of treatment with liposomal amphotericin B in elderly patients at least 65 years old with hematological diseases

The safety and efficacy of treatment with liposomal amphotericin B (L-AMB) in elderly patients has not been clarified, especially in Japanese patients. Therefore, we retrospectively analyzed 33 elderly patients with hematological diseases of at least 65 years old who received L-AMB between 2009 and 2012. Their clinical outcomes were compared to those of 21 patients who were younger than 65 years. L-AMB was administered for empirical therapy (n = 2) or target therapy for possible (n = 14) or probable/proven (n = 17) invasive fungal infection. There was no discontinuation of L-AMB due to adverse events. More than 2-fold increases from the baseline Cre, AST, and ALT values were observed in 21.2%, 39.4%, and 45.5% of the older group and 38.1%, 61.9%, and 52.4% of the younger group, respectively. The concurrent use of nephrotoxic antibiotics was the only risk factor for the development of a 2-fold increase in the serum Cre level. The duration of L-AMB was significantly longer in patients who developed grade III-IV hypokalemia. A partial or complete response was observed in 54.8% and 62.5% of the elderly and younger groups, respectively. In conclusion, L-AMB therapy appeared to be acceptably safe as empirical therapy or treatment for invasive fungal infection.

Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Candidiasis: 2016 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America

It is important to realize that guidelines cannot always account for individual variation among patients. They are not intended to supplant physician judgment with respect to particular patients or special clinical situations. IDSA considers adherence to these guidelines to be voluntary, with the ultimate determination regarding their application to be made by the physician in the light of each patient's individual circumstances.

Voriconazole therapeutic drug monitoring: results of a prematurely discontinued randomized multicenter trial

BACKGROUND

Voriconazole (VOR) levels are highly variable, with potential implications to both efficacy and safety. We hypothesized that VOR therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) will decrease the incidence of treatment failures and adverse events (AEs).

METHODS

We initiated a prospective, randomized, non-blinded multicenter study to compare clinical outcomes in adult patients randomized to standard dosing (clinician-driven) vs. TDM (doses adjusted based on levels). VOR trough levels were obtained on day 5, 14, 28, and 42 (or at completion of drug; ± 3 days). Real-time dose adjustments were made to maintain a range between 1-5 μg/mL on the TDM-arm, while levels were assessed retrospectively in the standard-arm. Patient questionnaires were administered to assess subjective AEs.

RESULTS

The study was discontinued prematurely, after 29 patients were enrolled. Seventeen (58.6%) patients experienced 38 AEs: visual changes (22/38, 57.9%), neurological symptoms (13/38, 34.2%), and liver abnormalities (3/38, 7.9%). VOR was discontinued in 7 (25%) patients because of an AE (4 standard-arm, 3 TDM-arm). VOR levels were frequently out of range in the standard-arm (8 tests >5 μg/mL; 9 tests <1 μg/mL). Three dose changes occurred in the TDM-arm for VOR levels <1 μg/mL. Levels decreased over time in the standard-arm, with mean VOR levels lower at end of therapy compared to TDM (1.3 vs. 4.6 μg/mL, P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

VOR TDM has become widespread clinical practice, based on known variability in drug levels, which impaired accrual in this study. Although comparative conclusions are limited, observations of variability and waning levels over time support TDM.

Efficacy and safety of micafungin versus intravenous itraconazole as empirical antifungal therapy for febrile neutropenic patients with hematological malignancies: a randomized, controlled, prospective, multicenter study

Micafungin, a clinically important echinocandin antifungal drug, needs to be investigated as empirical therapy in febrile neutropenia in comparison with azole compounds. A prospective randomized study was conducted to compare clinical outcomes between micafungin and intravenous itraconazole as an empirical therapy for febrile neutropenia in hematological malignancies. The antifungal drug (micafungin 100 mg or itraconazole 200 mg IV once daily) was given for high fever that was sustained despite the administration of appropriate antibiotics. Treatment success was determined by composite end points based on breakthrough invasive fungal infection (IFI), survival, premature discontinuation, defervescence, and treatment of baseline fungal infection. Duration of fever, hospital stay, and overall survival (OS) were studied. A total of 153 patients were randomized to receive micafungin or itraconazole. The overall success rate was 7.1 % point higher in the micafungin group (64.4 vs. 57.3 %, p = 0.404), satisfying the statistical criteria for the non-inferiority of micafungin. The duration of fever and hospital stay were significantly shorter in the micafungin group (6 vs. 7 days, p = 0.014; 22 vs. 27 days, p = 0.033, respectively). Grade 3 adverse events including hyperbilirubinemia (2 vs. 7), elevation of transaminase levels (2 vs. 4), electrolyte imbalance (1 vs. 2), atrial fibrillation (1 vs. 0), and anaphylaxis (1 vs. 0) occurred in 7 and 13 patients in the micafungin (10.4 %) and itraconazole (18.8 %) groups, respectively. Micafungin, when compared with itraconazole, had favorably comparable success rate and toxicity profiles on febrile neutropenia in patients with hematological malignancies. In addition, it showed superior effect on shortening the hospital stay.

Consensus guidelines for optimising antifungal drug delivery and monitoring to avoid toxicity and improve outcomes in patients with haematological malignancy, 2014

Antifungal agents may be associated with significant toxicity or drug interactions leading to sub-therapeutic antifungal drug concentrations and poorer clinical outcomes for patients with haematological malignancy. These risks may be minimised by clinical assessment, laboratory monitoring, avoidance of particular drug combinations and dose modification. Specific measures, such as the optimal timing of oral drug administration in relation to meals, use of pre-hydration and electrolyte supplementation may also be required. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of antifungal agents is warranted, especially where non-compliance, non-linear pharmacokinetics, inadequate absorption, a narrow therapeutic window, suspected drug interaction or unexpected toxicity are encountered. Recommended indications for voriconazole and posaconazole TDM in the clinical management of haematology patients are provided. With emerging knowledge regarding the impact of pharmacogenomics upon metabolism of azole agents (particularly voriconazole), potential applications of pharmacogenomic evaluation to clinical practice are proposed.

[Effects of peri-immunosupressive therapy period infection on hematologic response and survival of severe aplastic anemia]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of peri-immunosuppressive treatment（IST）infection on outcomes of severe and very severe aplastic anemia（SAA/VSAA）patients.

METHODS

Medical record and follow-up data of 105 SAA/VSAA who underwent first-line IST were retrospectively analyzed to find out the characters of infections（1 month before to 3 months after IST）, and its effects on hematologic response and survival.

RESULTS

Of 105 patients, a total of 270 febrile episodes were recorded in 97 patients（92.4%）during their peri- IST periods, with the median infections of 2（1-7）episodes in each patient with the median febrile duration of 7（1-47）days. Respiratory system（35.1%）was the primary anatomic site of infection. Bacteria（88.2%）were common causes of total 169 pathogenic bacteria in 96 clear pathogenic bacteria episodes. And patients who got infection 1 month before IST had much lower 6- month hematologic response rate than their counterpart ones（50.8% vs 80.0%, P=0.004）. Multiple febrile episodes （ ≥3 times） and the total febrile duration ≥4 days showed the best sensitivity and specificity according to the ROC curve analysis. The 5-year overall survival of the 105 patients was 76%. The 5- year OS of patients with multiple febrile episodes （ ≥3 times） were much lower than their counterpart ones［（59.6±7.2）% vs（89.5±4.0）%］（P＜0.01）. The 5-year OS of the total febrile duration ≥4 days was much lower than their counterpart ones［（63.4±5.8）% vs 100.0%］（P＜0.01）.

CONCLUSION

Infections 1 month before IST were associated with hematologic response. Multiple febrile episodes（≥3 times） and infections with the febrile duration ≥4 days presented inferior hematologic response and survival.

Antifungals in severe asthma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Despite guideline-based treatment, many patients with severe asthma continue to have uncontrolled disease. Fungal allergy is being increasingly recognized in the pathogenesis of severe asthma. Limited data exist on the approach to treatment of fungal asthma. This review summarizes existing evidence on the use of antifungal agents in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and severe asthma with fungal sensitization (SAFS), and highlights needed areas of future investigation.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies evaluating oral triazole therapy in ABPA appear to support triazole use in a carefully considered clinical setting, whereas studies assessing triazole use in SAFS have yielded mixed results. Despite early encouraging findings that oral triazole use may improve asthma symptoms, stabilize lung function, decrease inhaled and systemic corticosteroid requirements, and alter serum biomarkers, overall data are limited. Appropriate patient selection, as well as choice of the optimal drug, dose, frequency, and duration of therapy, remains poorly defined.

SUMMARY

The role of antifungal therapy in severe asthma remains unclear. Early studies have suggested a possible benefit of some antifungal agents, such as oral triazoles in ABPA and SAFS; however, routine clinical use of these agents in severe asthma without ABPA is not currently recommended. Further research is needed to better delineate the potential utility of antifungal medications in severe asthma and identify the asthma populations who benefit from such treatment.

Worsening renal function in patients with baseline renal impairment treated with intravenous voriconazole: A systematic review

The objective of this paper was to review the risk of worsening renal function in patients with pre-existing renal impairment receiving intravenous voriconazole (IVV). Controversy exists regarding the cause and risk of renal dysfunction in patients treated with IVV. Whilst some studies implicate renally excreted cyclodextrin, a pharmaceutical formulation stabiliser, as the cause of renal dysfunction following voriconazole administration, others provide contradicting evidence. Here we analyse the available literature to gain an insight into the significance of renal toxicity in patients treated with IVV. PubMed was searched for relevant studies to December 2014. To account for publication bias, abstracts from the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, the Infectious Diseases Society of America/ID Week, and the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases from 2008-2014 were reviewed. Bibliographies of all identified articles were reviewed and cross-referenced for additional sources. Seven retrospective studies were identified for inclusion in the review; no prospective studies were identified. Based on the available evidence, we conclude that there is no strong evidence suggesting an increased incidence of worsening renal function with IVV use. No study thus far has provided direct conclusive evidence for cellular and physiological renal toxicity due to IVV at clinically prevalent doses.

Pharmaceutical care of hepatic injury associated with antifungal drugs

Drug-induced liver injury refers to hepatotoxicity or allergic reactions caused by drugs or their metabolites, and it is divided into three categories: liver cell type, cholestasis type and mixed type. Antifungal drugs have many types, including antibiotics, allylamine, azoles, pyrimidine, echinocandins and so on. Most of these drugs are metabolized mainly in the liver, and can cause different degrees of damage to the liver. This article reviews the characteristics of various kinds of antifungal drugs which cause liver damage, and proposes the pharmaceutical case of hepatic injury associated with antifungal drugs. During antifungal therapy liver function should be monitored to evaluate the possibility and severity of hepatic injury. Liver-protecting treatment should be given in time when hepatic injury occurs. Timely reduction or replacement of antifungal drugs is necessary, and the drug should be discontinued when hepatic injury is serious.

Antifungal agent utilization evaluation in hospitalized neutropenic cancer patients at a large teaching hospital

To evaluate pattern of using of three antifungal drugs: fluconazole, amphotericin B and voriconazole, at the hematology-oncology and bone marrow transplant wards of one large teaching hospital. In a prospective cross-sectional study, we evaluated the appropriateness of using antifungal drugs in patients, using Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. All the data were recorded daily by a pharmacist in a form designed by a clinical pharmacist and infectious diseases specialist, for antifungals usage, administration, and monitoring. During the study, 116 patients were enrolled. Indications of prescribing amphotericin B, fluconazole, and voriconazole were appropriate according to guidelines in 83.4%, 80.6%, and 76.9% respectively. The duration of treatments were appropriate according to guidelines in 75%, 64.5%, and 71.1% respectively. The dose of voriconazole was appropriate according to guidelines in 46.2% of patients. None of the patients received salt loading before administration of amphotericin B. The most considerable problems with the mentioned antifungals were about the indications and duration of treatment. In addition, prehydration for amphotericin B and dosage of voriconazole were not completely compatible with the mentioned guidelines. A suitable combination of controlling the use of antifungals and educational programs could be essential for improving the general process of using antifungal drugs at our hospital.

Economic Comparison of an Empirical Versus Diagnostic-Driven Strategy for Treating Invasive Fungal Disease in Immunocompromised Patients

PURPOSE

Patients with persistent or recurrent neutropenic fevers at risk of invasive fungal disease (IFD) are treated empirically with antifungal therapy (AFT). Early treatment using a diagnostic-driven (DD) strategy may reduce clinical and economic burdens. We compared costs and outcomes of both strategies from a UK perspective.

METHODS

An empirical strategy with conventional amphotericin B deoxycholate (C-AmB), liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB), or caspofungin was compared with a DD strategy (initiated based on positive ELISA results for galactomannan antigen) and/or positive results for Aspergillus species on polymerase chain reaction assay) using C-AmB, voriconazole, or L-AmB in a decision-analytic model. Rates of IFD incidence, overall mortality, and IFD-related mortality in adults expected to be neutropenic for ≥10 days were obtained. The empirical strategy was assumed to identify 30% of IFD and targeted AFT to improve survival by a hazard ratio of 0.589. AFT-specific adverse events were obtained from a summary of product characteristics. Resource use was obtained, and costs were estimated by using standard UK costing sources. All costs are presented in 2012 British pounds sterling.

FINDINGS

Total costs were 32% lower for the DD strategy (£1561.29) versus the empirical strategy (£2301.93) due to a reduced incidence of adverse events and decreased use of AFT. Administration of AFT was reduced by 41% (DD strategy, 74 of 1000; empirical strategy, 125 of 1000), with similar survival rates.

IMPLICATIONS

This study suggests that a DD strategy is likely to be cost-saving versus empirical treatment for immunocompromised patients with persistent or recurrent neutropenic fevers.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Genotypic Screening in the Clinical Use of Voriconazole

Voriconazole is an antifungal triazole that is the first line agent for treatment of invasive aspergillosis. It is metabolized by CYP2C19, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4 and demonstrates wide interpatient variability in serum concentrations. Polymorphisms in CYP2C19 contribute to variability in voriconazole pharmacokinetics. Here, evidence is examined for the use of voriconazole therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and the role of CYP2C19 genotyping in voriconazole dosing. The majority of studies exploring the impact of voriconazole TDM on efficacy and safety have found TDM to be beneficial. However, most of these studies are observational, with only one being a randomized controlled trial. High-volume multicenter randomized controlled trials of TDM are currently not available to support definitive guidelines. There is a significant relationship in healthy volunteers between CYP2C19 genotype and voriconazole pharmacokinetics, but this association is markedly less visible in actual patients. While CYP2C19 genotype data may explain variability of voriconazole serum levels, they alone are not sufficient to guide initial dosing. The timeliness of availability of CYP2C19 genotype data in treatment of individual patients also remains challenging. Additional studies are needed before implementation of CYP2C19 genotyping for voriconazole dosing into routine clinical care.

In vitro activities of amphotericin B, terbinafine, and azole drugs against clinical and environmental isolates of Aspergillus terreus sensu stricto

The antifungal susceptibilities of 40 clinical and environmental isolates of A. terreus sensu stricto to amphotericin B, terbinafine, itraconazole, and voriconazole were determined in accordance with CLSI document M38-A2. All isolates had itraconazole and voriconazole MICs lower than epidemiologic cutoff values, and 5% of the isolates had amphotericin B MICs higher than epidemiologic cutoff values. Terbinafine showed the lowest MICs. No significant differences were found when MICs of clinical and environmental isolates were compared.

How much European prescribing physicians know about invasive fungal infections management?

BACKGROUND

The use of systemic antifungal agents has increased in most tertiary care centers. However, antifungal stewardship has deserved very little attention. Our objective was to assess the knowledge of European prescribing physicians as a first step of an international program of antifungal stewardship.

METHODS

Staff physicians and residents of 4 European countries were invited to complete a 20-point questionnaire that was based on current guidelines of invasive candidiasis and invasive aspergillosis.

RESULTS

121 physicians (44.6% staff, 55.4% residents) from Spain 53.7%, Italy 17.4%, Denmark 16.5% and Germany 12.4% completed the survey. Hospital departments involved were: medical 51.2%, ICUs 43%, surgical 3.3% and pharmaceutical 2.5%. The mean score of adequate responses (± SD) was 5.8 ± 1.7 points, with statistically significant differences between study site and type of physicians. Regarding candidiasis, 69% of the physicians clearly distinguished colonization from infection and the local rate of fluconazole resistance was known by 24%. The accepted indications of antifungal prophylaxis were known by 38%. Regarding aspergillosis, 52% of responders could differentiate colonization from infection and 42% knew the diagnostic value of galactomannan. Radiological features of invasive aspergillosis were well recognized by 58% of physicians and 57% of them were aware of the antifungal considered as first line treatment. However, only 37% knew the recommended length of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

This simple, easily completed questionnaire enabled us to identify some weakness in the knowledge of invasive fungal infection management among European physicians. This survey could serve as a guide to design a future tailored European training program.

Therapeutic drug monitoring for triazoles: A needs assessment review and recommendations from a Canadian perspective

Invasive fungal infections cause significant morbidity and mortality in patients with concomitant underlying immunosuppressive diseases. The recent addition of new triazoles to the antifungal armamentarium has allowed for extended-spectrum activity and flexibility of administration. Over the years, clinical use has raised concerns about the degree of drug exposure following standard approved drug dosing, questioning the need for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). Accordingly, the present guidelines focus on TDM of triazole antifungal agents. A review of the rationale for triazole TDM, the targeted patient populations and available laboratory methods, as well as practical recommendations based on current evidence from an extended literature review are provided in the present document.

Micafungin compared with caspofungin for the treatment of febrile episodes in neutropenic patients with hematological malignancies: A retrospective study

Patients with neutropenia resulting from chemotherapy for hematological malignancies are at risk for considerable morbidity and mortality due to invasive fungal infections and should, thus, be treated with antifungal agents. Caspofungin has been one of the most common antifungal agents used for this purpose; its analogue micafungin may also be appropriate, but has not been tested as extensively. Accordingly, the authors of this article conducted a retrospective study to compare these two agents; the results contribute to the literature regarding the use of micafungin for the treatment of invasive fungal infections.

BACKGROUND:

Invasive fungal infections are associated with morbidity and mortality in neutropenia secondary to hematological malignancies. Empirical antifungal agents are used to reduce their consequences. Caspofungin is the only echinocandin approved for this indication. Micafungin was compared with caspofungin for the treatment of patients with hematological malignancies and prolonged neutropenia.

METHODS:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving patients who had hematological malignancies with profound neutropenia for a minimum of 10 days, and received empirical micafungin or caspofungin for a minimum of five days, between April 2005 and November 2009. Successful outcome was based on a composite end point: survival for a minimum of seven days following antifungal cessation, successful treatment of baseline fungal infection, absence of adverse events and absence of breakthrough fungal infection. Fungal infections were defined according to revised definitions of invasive fungal disease from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Invasive Fungal Infections Cooperative Group and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Mycoses Study Group (EORTC-MSG) criteria, with modification of the diagnostic imaging criteria.

RESULTS:

Micafungin had similar overall success to caspofungin (60.4% [29 of 48] versus 57.3% [47 of 82], respectively; P=0.729). Survival was higher in the micafungin group compared with the caspofungin group (100% [48 of 48] versus 89% [73 of 82]; P=0.02). No baseline invasive fungal infections were identified in the micafungin group, compared with three proven infections treated successfully with caspofungin (3.7%; P=0.18). Three proven breakthrough infections were observed in the micafungin group (three of 48 [27.3%]) compared with none in the caspofungin group (zero of 82; P=0.02).

CONCLUSION:

Micafungin has similar efficacy to caspofungin as empirical antifungal therapy in febrile neutropenic patients with hematological malignancies. Verification of these results in a prospective trial is warranted.

Economic evaluation of a preemptive treatment strategy for invasive fungal infection in neutropenic patients with hematological diseases

We compared the expected medical costs of empirical and preemptive treatment strategies for invasive fungal infection in neutropenic patients with hematological diseases. Based on the results of two clinical trials with different backgrounds reported by Oshima et al. [J Antimicrob Chemother 60(2):350-355; Oshima study] and Cordonnier et al. [Clin Infect Dis 48(8):1042-1051; PREVERT study], we developed a decision tree model that represented the outcomes of empirical and preemptive treatment strategies, and estimated the expected medical costs of medications and examinations in the two strategies. We assumed that micafungin was started in the empirical group at 5 days after fever had developed, while voriconazole was started in the preemptive group only when certain criteria, such as positive test results of imaging studies and/or serum markers, were fulfilled. When we used an incidence of positive test results of 6.7 % based on the Oshima study, the expected medical costs of the empirical and preemptive groups were 288,198 and 150,280 yen, respectively. Even in the case of the PREVERT study, in which the incidence of positive test results was 32.9 %, the expected medical costs in the empirical and preemptive groups were 291,871 and 284,944 yen, respectively. A sensitivity analysis indicated that the expected medical costs in the preemptive group would exceed those in the empirical group when the incidence of positive test results in the former was over 34.4 %. These results suggest that a preemptive treatment strategy can be expected to reduce medical costs compared with empirical therapy in most clinical settings.

Treatment of febrile neutropenia and prophylaxis in hematologic malignancies: a critical review and update

Febrile neutropenia is one of the most serious complications in patients with haematological malignancies and chemotherapy. A prompt identification of infection and empirical antibiotic therapy can prolong survival. This paper reviews the guidelines about febrile neutropenia in the setting of hematologic malignancies, providing an overview of the definition of fever and neutropenia, and categories of risk assessment, management of infections, and prophylaxis.

Serum voriconazole level variability in patients with hematological malignancies receiving voriconazole therapy

Voriconazole is an important antifungal agent used to treat invasive fungal infections; however, its administration can be difficult because of the narrow range between the level required for therapeutic efficacy and the level at which there is risk for hepatic and neurological toxicity. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationships among oral dosage, voriconazole levels and liver enzyme levels among leukemia patients.

INTRODUCTION:

Voriconazole plasma concentrations have been correlated with oral dosing in healthy subjects, but have been poorly characterized in ill patients with hematological malignancies receiving intensive chemotherapy.

METHODS:

The relationship between orally administered voriconazole, plasma concentrations and liver toxicity was examined in a cohort of 69 primarily acute leukemia patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy.

RESULTS:

Oral administration of voriconazole was associated with significant interpatient variability, with voriconazole steady-state concentrations ranging from 0 μg/mL to 16.6 μg/mL. Approximately 20% of patients achieved steady-state concentrations <1 μg/mL. When adjusted for weight, patients receiving higher voriconazole doses tended toward higher plasma concentrations; however, there was no significant relationship between the plasma concentration and genotype, age, sex or use of concomitant proton pump inhibitors. Voriconazole concentrations were correlated with higher serum alkaline phosphatase levels at day 6 to 8, and with higher bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase levels at day 14 to 16, but not with other liver enzyme levels.

CONCLUSION:

In ill patients with acute leukemia and related disorders undergoing treatment with oral voriconazole, there is a poor correlation between the voriconazole dose and plasma concentrations, and many patients achieve levels that are considered to be subtherapeutic. The findings support the routine use of therapeutic drug monitoring in these patients.

Dose-independent confusion induced by voriconazole in a patient with Asian ancestry after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant

This is the case of a 71-year-old man with Asian ancestry who had myelodysplastic syndrome admitted for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. This case suggests that voriconazole-induced confusion is probably dose-independent and reversible with no residual symptoms after discontinuation of voriconazole. Patient can experience confusion even voriconazole is ordered according to package insert and serum voriconazole level is within therapeutic range (1-6 µg/mL). The onset of confusion can be delayed and sudden after seven days of voriconazole therapy. Genotyping of CYP2C19 can be tested for Asian populations since 15-20% of them could be poor metabolizers of voriconazole.

Effect of a denture base acrylic resin containing silver nanoparticles on Candida albicans adhesion and biofilm formation

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of denture base resin containing silver nanoparticles (nano-silver) on Candida albicans adhesion and biofilm formation.

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological studies report that approximately 70% of removable denture wearers suffer from denture stomatitis. Candida albicans adhesion and biofilm formation are regarded as essential prerequisites for denture stomatitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bioactivity and biomass of C. albicans biofilm, which was incubated in a series of twofold dilutions of nano-silver suspension at 37°C for 24 h, were determined using XTT reduction and crystal violet assays, respectively. The denture base resin specimens containing nano-silver were then used in C. albicans adhesion (37°C; 90 min; n = 9) and biofilm formation assays (37°C; 72 h; n = 9). Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to evaluate the architectural properties of average thickness and live/dead cell ratio in the different biofilm stages that developed on the specimens.

RESULTS

The bioactivity and biomass of C. albicans biofilm successively decreased with increasing nano-silver solution concentration. Denture base resin containing nano-silver had no effect on adhesion at low concentrations, but it exhibited anti-adhesion activity at a high concentration (5%). For 72 h biofilm formed on the resin specimens, the thickness and live/dead cell ratio were successively reduced with increasing nano-silver concentrations.

CONCLUSION

Nano-silver had antifungal activity and inhibited C. albicans biofilm formation. Antifungal activity and an inhibitory effect on adhesion and biofilm formation by denture base resin containing nano-silver were discovered, especially at a higher concentration.

Training should be the first step toward an antifungal stewardship program

The frequency of use of systemic antifungal agents has increased significantly in most tertiary centers. However, antifungal stewardship has received very little attention. The objective of this article was to assess the knowledge of prescribing physicians in our institution as a first step in the development of an antifungal stewardship program. Attending physicians from the departments that prescribe most antifungals were invited to complete a questionnaire based on current guidelines on diagnosis and therapy of invasive candidiasis and invasive aspergillosis (IA). The survey was completed by 60.8% (200/329) of the physicians who were invited to participate. The physicians belonged to the following departments: medical (60%), pediatric (19%), intensive care (15.5%), and surgical (5.5%). The mean (±SD) score of correct responses was 5.16±1.73. In the case of candidiasis, only 55% of the physicians clearly distinguished between colonization and infection, and 17.5% knew the local rate of fluconazole resistance. Thirty-three percent knew the accepted indications for antifungal prophylaxis, and 23% the indications for empirical therapy. However, most physicians knew which antifungals to choose when starting empirical therapy (73.5%). As for aspergillosis, most physicians (67%) could differentiate between colonization and infection, and 34.5% knew the diagnostic value of galactomannan. The radiological features of IA were well recognized by 64%, but only 31.5% were aware of the first line of treatment for IA, and 36% of the recommended duration of therapy. The usefulness of antifungal levels was known by 67%. This simple, easily completed questionnaire enabled us to identify which areas of our training strategy could be improved.

Current and future therapies for invasive aspergillosis

Invasive fungal infections have increase worldwide and represent a threat for immunocompromised patients including HIV-infected, recipients of solid organ and stem cell transplants, and patients receiving immunosuppressive therapies. High mortality rates and difficulties in early diagnosis characterize pulmonary fungal infections. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis has been reviewed focussing on therapeutic management. Although new compounds have become available in the past years (i.e., amphotericin B lipid formulations, last-generation azoles, and echinocandines), new diagnostic tools and careful therapeutic management are mandatory to assure an early appropriate targeted treatment that represents the key factor for a successful conservative approach in respiratory fungal infections.

Recommendations for the Treatment of Invasive Fungal Infections in Hematological Malignancies: A Critical Review of Evidence and Turkish Expert Opinion (TEO-1)

The introduction of novel antifungal agents for the treatment of invasive fungal disease in hematological malignancies and also changing treatment strategies have had a great impact in managing affected patients. The medical literature includes some important clinical studies that are being used as evidence for guidelines. The problem with these studies and the guidelines is that they are not very easy to interpret, they include controversial issues, and they are not easy to apply to every patient or country. This paper was designed to critically show the main problems associated with these approaches and provide important information that will help Turkish doctors to adopt them in daily clinical practice.

Effects of multiple doses of voriconazole on the vision of healthy volunteers: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects, and their reversibility, of multiple oral voriconazole doses on a variety of visual tests in healthy male volunteers.

METHODS

Single-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study in 36 volunteers who received voriconazole (n=18, 400 mg every 12 h on day 1, then 300 mg every 12 h for 27.5 days) or matched placebo (n=18). Electroretinograms (ERGs) and ophthalmological examinations were performed at screening, throughout the study and at follow-up.

RESULTS

Fifteen (83.3%) volunteers treated with voriconazole experienced ≥1 treatment-related visual adverse events (AEs); these included enhanced visual perceptions, blurred vision, color vision changes and photophobia. No serious AEs were reported. Voriconazole reduced from baseline scotopic maximal a- and b-wave amplitude, shortened implicit time and decreased oscillatory potential amplitude compared with placebo. Under photopic conditions, the 30-Hz flicker response amplitude was significantly reduced and was accompanied by a slight but nonsignificant prolongation of peak time. These effects did not progress in degree over the treatment period, and mean changes from baseline in ERG parameters were similar to placebo by day 43 (14 days after end of treatment). In the first week, color vision discrimination was impaired in the tritan axis, although this resolved by end of treatment and was similar to placebo by day 43. Mean deviation in the static visual field indicated increased sensitivity following voriconazole treatment, correlating with decreased amplitude in conjunction with shortened implicit time.

CONCLUSIONS

Effects of voriconazole on altered visual perception, ERG, color vision and static visual field thresholds are nonprogressive over a treatment period and reversible. It is hypothesized that voriconazole has a pharmacological effect on rod and cone pathways including a possible mechanism of disinhibition that reversibly puts the retina in a more light-adapted state and leads to increased relative contrast sensitivity.

Triggers for driving treatment of at-risk patients with invasive fungal disease

Timing of treatment for invasive fungal disease (IFD) is critical for making appropriate clinical decisions. Historically, many centres have treated at-risk patients prior to disease detection to try to prevent fungal colonization or in response to antibiotic-resistant fever. Many studies have indicated that a diagnostic-driven approach, using radiological tests and biomarkers to guide treatment decisions, may be a more clinically relevant and cost-effective approach. The Invasive Fungal Infections Cooperative Group of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) defined host clinical and mycological criteria for proven, probable and possible classes of IFD, to aid diagnosis. However, some patients at risk of IFD do not meet EORTC/MSG criteria and have been termed Groups B (patients with persistent unexplained febrile neutropenia) and C (patients with non-definitive signs of IFD) in a study by Maertens et al. (Haematologica 2012; 97: 325-7). Consequently, we considered the most appropriate triggers (clinical or radiological signs or biomarkers) for treatment of all patient groups, especially the unclassified B and C groups, based on our clinical experience. For Group C patients, additional diagnostic testing is recommended before a decision to treat, including repeat galactomannan tests, radiological scans and analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Triggers for stopping antifungal treatment were considered to include resolution of all clinical signs and symptoms. For Group B patients, it was concluded that better definition of risk factors predisposing patients to fungal infection and the use of more sensitive diagnostic tests are required to aid treatment decisions and improve clinical outcomes.

Characterization of Scedosporium apiospermum glucosylceramides and their involvement in fungal development and macrophage functions

Scedosporium apiospermum is an emerging fungal pathogen that causes both localized and disseminated infections in immunocompromised patients. Glucosylceramides (CMH, GlcCer) are the main neutral glycosphingolipids expressed in fungal cells. In this study, glucosylceramides (GlcCer) were extracted and purified in several chromatographic steps. Using high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), N-2′-hydroxyhexadecanoyl-1-β-D-glucopyranosyl-9-methyl-4,8-sphingadienine was identified as the main GlcCer in S. apiospermum. A monoclonal antibody (Mab) against this molecule was used for indirect immunofluorescence experiments, which revealed that this CMH is present on the surface of the mycelial and conidial forms of S. apiospermum. Treatment of S. apiospermum conidia with the Mab significantly reduced fungal growth. In addition, the Mab also enhanced the phagocytosis and killing of S. apiospermum by murine cells. In vitro assays were performed to evaluate the CMHs for their cytotoxic activities against the mammalian cell lines L.929 and RAW, and an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation was observed. Synergistic invitro interactions were observed between the Mab against GlcCer and both amphotericin B (AmB) and itraconazole. Because Scedosporium species develop drug resistance, the number of available antifungal drugs is limited; our data indicate that combining immunotherapy with the available drugs might be a viable treatment option. These results suggest that in S. apiospermum, GlcCer are most likely cell wall components that are targeted by antifungal antibodies, which directly inhibit fungal development and enhance macrophage function; furthermore, these results suggest the combined use of monoclonal antibodies against GlcCer and antifungal drugs for antifungal immunotherapy.

Cost effectiveness of caspofungin vs. voriconazole for empiric therapy in Turkey

Invasive fungal infections from febrile neutropenia are associated with significant cost and mortality. The mainstay of treatment has been liposomal amphotericin B, however, echinocandins and azoles have shown promise as alternative treatments. Data on clinical efficacy exist, however, data incorporating pharmacoeconomic considerations are required in Turkey. The aim of this study was to investigate the cost effectiveness of caspofungin vs. voriconazole in empiric treatment of febrile neutropenia in Turkey. A decision analytic model was utilised, built upon two randomised-controlled trials and supplemented with expert panel input from clinicians in Turkey. A five-point composite outcome measure was utilised and sensitivity analyses were performed to demonstrate the robustness of the model. The base case scenario resulted in caspofungin being preferred by TL2,533, TL29,256 and TL2,536 per patient treated, successfully treated patient and patient survival, respectively (approx. USD1414, 16 328 and 1415); sensitivity analyses did not change the outcome. Monte Carlo simulation highlighted a 78.8% chance of favouring caspofungin. The result was moderately sensitive to treatment duration and acquisition cost of the antifungal agents compared. This is the first pharmacoeconomic study comparing caspofungin to voriconazole within Turkey, resulting in an advantage towards caspofungin. The study will aid in formulary decision-making based on the clinical and economic consequences of each agent in the Turkish health care setting.

Voriconazole versus amphotericin B or fluconazole in cancer patients with neutropenia

BACKGROUND

Opportunistic fungal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neutropenic cancer patients and antifungal therapy is used both empirically and therapeutically in these patients.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the benefits and harms of voriconazole with those of amphotericin B and fluconazole when used for prevention or treatment of invasive fungal infections in cancer patients with neutropenia.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in The Cochrane Library (2014, Issue 1 2014), MEDLINE (to January 2014). Letters, abstracts and unpublished trials were accepted. Contact was made with trial authors and industry.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised clinical trials comparing voriconazole with amphotericin B or fluconazole.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data on mortality, invasive fungal infection, colonisation, use of additional (escape) antifungal therapy and adverse effects leading to discontinuation of therapy were extracted independently by two review authors.

MAIN RESULTS

Three trials were included. One trial compared voriconazole to liposomal amphotericin B as empirical treatment of fever of unknown origin (suspected fungal infection) in neutropenic cancer patients (849 patients, 58 deaths). The second trial compared voriconazole to amphotericin B deoxycholate in the treatment of confirmed and presumed invasive Aspergillus infections (391 patients, 98 deaths). The third trial compared fluconazole to voriconazole for prophylaxis of fungal infections in patients receiving allogeneic stem cell transplantation (600 patients, number of deaths not stated). In the first trial, voriconazole was significantly inferior to liposomal amphotericin B according to the trial authors' prespecified criteria. More patients died in the voriconazole group and a claimed significant reduction in the number of breakthrough fungal infections disappeared when patients arbitrarily excluded from the analysis by the trial authors were included. In the second trial, the deoxycholate preparation of amphotericin B was used without any indication of the use of premedication to counter side effects and replacement of electrolytes or use of salt water. This choice of comparator resulted in a marked difference in the duration of treatment on the trial drugs (77 days with voriconazole versus 10 days with amphotericin B) and precluded meaningful comparisons of the benefits and harms of the two drugs. The third trial failed to find a difference in fungal free survival or invasive fungal infections at 180 days when voriconazole was compared to fluconazole.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Liposomal amphotericin B is significantly more effective than voriconazole for empirical therapy of fungal infections in neutropenic cancer patients and should be preferred. For treatment of aspergillosis, there are no trials that have compared voriconazole with amphotericin B given under optimal conditions. For prophylactic fungal treatment in patients receiving allogeneic stem cell transplantation, there was no difference between voriconazole and fluconazole regarding fungal free survival or invasive fungal infections.

Granulocyte transfusion combined with granulocyte colony stimulating factor in severe infection patients with severe aplastic anemia: a single center experience from China

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of granulocyte transfusion combined with granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) in severe infection patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA).

Methods

Fifty-six patients in severe infections with SAA who had received granulocyte transfusions combined with G-CSF from 2006 to 2012 in our department were analyzed. A retrospective analysis was undertaken to investigate the survival rates (at 30 days, 90 days and 180 days), the responses to treatment (at 7 days and 30 days, including microbiological, radiographic and clinical responses), the neutrophil count and adverse events after transfusion.

Results

All SAA patients with severe infections were treated with granulocyte transfusions combined with G-CSF. Forty-seven patients had received antithymocyte globulin/antilymphocyte globulin and cyclosporine A as immunosuppressive therapy. The median number of granulocyte components transfused was 18 (range, 3–75). The survival at 30 days, 90 days and 180 days were 50(89%), 39(70%) and 37(66%) respectively. Among 31 patients who had invasive fungal infections, the survival at 30 days, 90 days and 180 days were 27(87%), 18(58%) and 16(52%) respectively. Among the 25 patients who had refractory severe bacterial infections, the survival at 30 days, 90 days and 180 days were 23(92%), 21(84%) and 21(84%) respectively. Survival rate was correlated with hematopoietic recovery. Responses of patients at 7 and 30 days were correlated with survival rate. Common adverse effects of granulocyte transfusion included mild to moderate fever, chills, allergy and dyspnea.

Conclusion

Granulocyte transfusions combined with G-CSF could be an adjunctive therapy for treating severe infections of patients with SAA.

Antifungal pre-emptive strategy for high-risk neutropenic patients: why the story is still ongoing

Neutropenic patients with haematological malignancies are at high risk of invasive fungal disease (IFD). Due to limitations in specific procedures to establish an early diagnosis of IFD, two historical unpowered studies suggested, three decades ago, that giving an empirical antifungal treatment to patients with persistent or recurrent fever under broad-spectrum antibacterials, could reduce the risk of IFD. For cost and toxicity reasons, this strategy became debated when modern imaging and indirect biological markers became available. Different pre-emptive strategies, either based on lung imaging, galactomannan antigenaemia, fungal PCR, or a combination of several parameters, were designed with the goal of restricting the administration of antifungals to the more at-risk patients with early signs of IFD. Almost all pre-emptive studies showed or suggested a reduction of administration and cost of antifungals during neutropenic phases. However, the clinical pertinence and safety of the strategy, and mainly its optimal design, are still pending. This paper reviews the evolution of these strategies and how they may be implemented in the haematology ward.