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Shinohara K, Itoi S, Nakamura S, Miyazaki Y, Mutoh Y, Hagiwara S, Ohmagari N. Micafungin-breakthrough Coniochaeta hoffmannii (Lecythophora hoffmannii) fungemia following cord blood transplant in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia successfully treated with voriconazole. J Infect Chemother 2024; 30:934-937. [PMID: 38369121 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2024.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Phaeohyphomycosis is caused by dematiaceous (pigmented) fungi. Most phaeohyphomycosis is non-invasive infections, however, they can lead to invasive infections, including fungemia and disseminated disease, particularly in severely immunocompromised patients. Invasive phaeohyphomycosis has recently emerged, however, the treatment strategy was not determined because of the intrinsic resistance to antifungals and the lack of clinical experience. Here, we describe a novel case of echinocandin-breakthrough Coniochaeta hoffmannii (Lecythophora hoffmannii) fungemia after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, which was identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and ribosomal RNA sequencing. The patient was a female in her 40s who had acute myeloid leukemia refractory to chemotherapy before progressing to cord blood transplantation. Before developing fungemia, the patient was administered multiple broad-spectrum antibiotics and micafungin for recurrent infections and prophylaxis. Clinical and microbiological responses to liposomal amphotericin B were poor but improved after replacement to voriconazole and engraftment. A literature review of the previously reported cases with C. hoffmannii human infections imply that disruption of the cutaneous/mucosal barrier and the use of antimicrobial agents, both antibiotics and antifungals, could incite C. hoffmannii invasive infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koh Shinohara
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Satoru Itoi
- Department of Hematology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeki Nakamura
- Department of Microbiology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Miyazaki
- Department of Chemotherapy and Mycoses, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Mutoh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tosei General Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | | | - Norio Ohmagari
- Disease Control and Prevention Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Zhai B, Liao C, Jaggavarapu S, Tang Y, Rolling T, Ning Y, Sun T, Bergin SA, Gjonbalaj M, Miranda E, Babady NE, Bader O, Taur Y, Butler G, Zhang L, Xavier JB, Weiss DS, Hohl TM. Antifungal heteroresistance causes prophylaxis failure and facilitates breakthrough Candida parapsilosis infections. Nat Med 2024:10.1038/s41591-024-03183-4. [PMID: 39095599 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03183-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Breakthrough fungal infections in patients on antimicrobial prophylaxis during allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) represent a major and often unexplained cause of morbidity and mortality. Candida parapsilosis is a common cause of invasive candidiasis and has been classified as a high-priority fungal pathogen by the World Health Organization. In high-risk allo-HCT recipients on micafungin prophylaxis, we show that heteroresistance (the presence of a phenotypically unstable, low-frequency subpopulation of resistant cells (~1 in 10,000)) underlies breakthrough bloodstream infections by C. parapsilosis. By analyzing 219 clinical isolates from North America, Europe and Asia, we demonstrate widespread micafungin heteroresistance in C. parapsilosis. Standard antimicrobial susceptibility tests, such as broth microdilution or gradient diffusion assays, which guide drug selection for invasive infections, fail to detect micafungin heteroresistance in C. parapsilosis. To facilitate rapid detection of micafungin heteroresistance in C. parapsilosis, we constructed a predictive machine learning framework that classifies isolates as heteroresistant or susceptible using a maximum of ten genomic features. These results connect heteroresistance to unexplained antifungal prophylaxis failure in allo-HCT recipients and demonstrate a proof-of-principle diagnostic approach with the potential to guide clinical decisions and improve patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Quantitative Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China.
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Chen Liao
- Computational and Systems Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Siddharth Jaggavarapu
- Emory Antibiotic Resistance Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory Vaccine Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- Key Laboratory of Quantitative Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Thierry Rolling
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yating Ning
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Mechanisms Research and Precision Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Tianshu Sun
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Mechanisms Research and Precision Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Diseases, Beijing, China
- Clinical Biobank, Medical Research Center, National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Sean A Bergin
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mergim Gjonbalaj
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Edwin Miranda
- Clinical Microbiology Service, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - N Esther Babady
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Clinical Microbiology Service, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Oliver Bader
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ying Taur
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Geraldine Butler
- School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Mechanisms Research and Precision Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Joao B Xavier
- Computational and Systems Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - David S Weiss
- Emory Antibiotic Resistance Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Emory Vaccine Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Tobias M Hohl
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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Silva WFD, Mendes FR, Melo RDCBD, Velloso EDRP, Rocha V, Rego EM. Assessing the impact of prophylactic anidulafungin during remission induction of acute myeloid leukemia - A propensity-score matching analysis. J Mycol Med 2023; 33:101434. [PMID: 37683564 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2023.101434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Invasive fungal infection (IFI) accounts for substantial morbidity during the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in adults. Antifungal prophylaxis (AP) is needed during intensive chemotherapy, and posaconazole is not widely available. In this study, we aimed to examine the impact of prophylactic anidulafungin during intensive AML remission induction. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort encompassing newly diagnosed AML adult patients. All subjects received intensive chemotherapy and were divided into three groups: patients who did not receive any AP and patients who received fluconazole (150-400 mg/day) or anidulafungin (100 mg/day). RESULTS During AML induction, 82 patients did not receive AP, 108 and 14 patients received anidulafungin and fluconazole, respectively. IFI incidence was 27%, classified as possible, probable, and proven in 65, 2 and 33%, respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that lower neutrophil counts are associated with IFI (OR = 2.8), whereas age, genetic classification, and lymphocyte counts were not. To examine the impact of anidulafungin in comparison with 'no AP', a propensity score matching analysis was performed. Use of anidulafungin was not related to less IFI during induction, while neutrophil counts remained significant. Patients under prophylactic anidulafungin received less amphotericin B (p < 0.001) but not voriconazole (p = 0.49). DISCUSSION To our knowledge, this is the first study addressing the role of anidulafungin during AML induction. Here, the incidence of mold infections did not decrease with AP, suggesting that in a setting with a high incidence of IFI, broad spectrum AP might be more suitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wellington Fernandes da Silva
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Directed Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Division of Hematology and Cell Therapy, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-000, Brazil; Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Rodrigues Mendes
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Directed Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Division of Hematology and Cell Therapy, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-000, Brazil; Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Raphael da Costa Bandeira de Melo
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Directed Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Division of Hematology and Cell Therapy, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-000, Brazil; Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Elvira Deolinda Rodrigues Pereira Velloso
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Directed Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Division of Hematology and Cell Therapy, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-000, Brazil; Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Vanderson Rocha
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Directed Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Division of Hematology and Cell Therapy, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-000, Brazil; Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Magalhaes Rego
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation in Pathogenesis and Directed Therapy in Onco-Immuno-Hematology (LIM-31), Division of Hematology and Cell Therapy, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-000, Brazil; Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-000, Brazil
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Alam H, Srivastava V, Sekgele W, Wani MY, Al-Bogami AS, Molepo J, Ahmad A. Cellular apoptosis and cell cycle arrest as potential therapeutic targets for eugenol derivatives in Candida auris. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285473. [PMID: 37343020 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris, the youngest Candida species, is known to cause candidiasis and candidemia in humans and has been related to several hospital outbreaks. Moreover, Candida auris infections are largely resistant to the antifungal drugs currently in clinical use, necessitating the development of novel medications and approaches to treat such infections. Following up on our previous studies that demonstrated eugenol tosylate congeners (ETCs) to have antifungal activity, several ETCs (C1-C6) were synthesized to find a lead molecule with the requisite antifungal activity against C. auris. Preliminary tests, including broth microdilution and the MUSE cell viability assay, identified C5 as the most active derivative, with a MIC value of 0.98 g/mL against all strains tested. Cell count and viability assays further validated the fungicidal activity of C5. Apoptotic indicators, such as phosphatidylserine externalization, DNA fragmentation, mitochondrial depolarization, decreased cytochrome c and oxidase activity and cell death confirmed that C5 caused apoptosis in C. auris isolates. The low cytotoxicity of C5 further confirmed the safety of using this derivative in future studies. To support the conclusions drawn in this investigation, additional in vivo experiments demonstrating the antifungal activity of this lead compound in animal models will be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hammad Alam
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Vartika Srivastava
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Windy Sekgele
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Oral Biological Sciences, School of Oral Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mohmmad Younus Wani
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Julitha Molepo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Oral Biological Sciences, School of Oral Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Aijaz Ahmad
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Infection Control, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Invasive Mold Infections: A Challenging Field. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8111127. [DOI: 10.3390/jof8111127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients comprise a highly immunocompromised group due to factors associated either with the treatment or the disease itself. Invasive mold infections (IMIs) are considered to be responsible for higher morbidity and mortality rates in patients with hematologic malignancies, including ALL. Defining the exact incidence of IMIs in ALL patients has been rather complicated. The available literature data report a highly variable incidence of IMIs, ranging from 2.2% to 15.4%. Although predisposing factors for IMIs in the setting of ALL are ill-defined, retrospective studies have indicated that a longer duration of neutropenia, treatment with high-dose corticosteroids, and a lack of antimold prophylaxis are associated with an increased risk of IMIs. Additionally, the influence of novel ALL treatments on the susceptibility to fungal infections remains obscure; however, initial data suggest that these treatments may induce prolonged neutropenia and thus an increased risk of IMIs. Administering primary antimold prophylaxis in these patients has been challenging since incorporating azole antifungal agents is troublesome, considering the drug-to-drug interactions (DDIs) and increased toxicity that may occur when these agents are coadministered with vincristine, a fundamental component of ALL chemotherapy regimens. Isavuconazole, along with several novel antifungal agents such as rezafungin, olorofim, and manogepix, may be appealing as primary antimold prophylaxis, given their broad-spectrum activity and less severe DDI potential. However, their use in ALL patients needs to be investigated through more clinical trials. In summary, this review outlines the epidemiology of IMI and the use of antifungal prophylaxis in ALL patients.
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Invasive Fungal Infections 2021. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080760. [PMID: 35893128 PMCID: PMC9330019 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Gu K, Ruff D, Key C, Thompson M, Jiang S, Sandison T, Flanagan S. A Phase 1 Randomized, Double-Blind, Single Subcutaneous Dose Escalation Study to Determine the Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of Rezafungin in Healthy Adult Subjects. Clin Transl Sci 2022; 15:1592-1598. [PMID: 35439347 PMCID: PMC9283735 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rezafungin is a novel echinocandin being developed for the treatment and prevention of invasive fungal infections. The objectives of this randomized, double‐blind study in healthy adults were to determine the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of rezafungin after subcutaneous (s.c.) administration. The study design consisted of six sequential cohorts of eight subjects, except for the first cohort with four subjects. The subjects were randomized in a 3:1 ratio of rezafungin to placebo and were to receive a single dose of 1, 10, 30, 60, 100, or 200 mg. The most common adverse events (AEs) were increased alanine aminotransferase and sinus bradycardia (unsolicited) and erythema at the injection site (solicited). Unsolicited AEs were generally mild to moderate and not rezafungin‐related. Although the study was terminated after the 10 mg dose cohort due to concerns of potential increased severity of injection site reactions, no predetermined dose escalation halting criteria were met. Following the 10 mg single s.c. dose of rezafungin (n = 6), the geometric mean (GM) maximum concentration (Cmax) was 105.0 ng/ml and the median time to Cmax was 144 h. The GM area under the concentration‐time curve was 32,770 ng*h/ml. The median estimated terminal half‐life was 193 h. The GM apparent oral clearance was 0.255 L/h and the GM apparent volume of distribution was 68.5 L. This study demonstrates that a single s.c. dose of rezafungin in healthy adult subjects: (1) did not result in serious AEs, death, or withdrawal from the study due to an AE; and (2) produced a pharmacokinetic profile with long exposure period postadministration. In an effort to reduce the occurrence of injection site reactions, a re‐evaluation of the rezafungin s.c. formulation could be considered in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenan Gu
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rockville, MD
| | - Dennis Ruff
- ICON Early Phase Services Clinical Research Unit, San Antonio, TX
| | - Cassandra Key
- ICON Early Phase Services Clinical Research Unit, San Antonio, TX
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Cushion MT, Ashbaugh A. The Long-Acting Echinocandin, Rezafungin, Prevents Pneumocystis Pneumonia and Eliminates Pneumocystis from the Lungs in Prophylaxis and Murine Treatment Models. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7090747. [PMID: 34575785 PMCID: PMC8468546 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Rezafungin is a novel echinocandin in Phase 3 development for prevention of invasive fungal disease caused by Candida spp., Aspergillus spp. and Pneumocystis jirovecii in blood and marrow transplantation patients. For such patients, standard antifungal prophylaxis currently comprises an azole for Candida and Aspergillus plus trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) for Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) despite drug-drug-interactions and intolerability that may limit their use, thus, alternatives are desirable. Rezafungin demonstrates a favorable safety profile and pharmacokinetic properties that allow for once-weekly dosing in addition, to antifungal activity against these predominant pathogens. Herein, the in vivo effects of rezafungin against Pneumocystis murina pneumonia were evaluated in immunosuppressed mouse models of prophylaxis and treatment using microscopy and qPCR assessments. In the prophylaxis model, immunosuppressed mice inoculated with P. murina were administered TMP-SMX (50/250 mg/kg 1×/week or 3×/week), caspofungin (5 mg/kg 3×/week), rezafungin (20 mg/kg, 1×/week or 3×/week; 5 mg/kg, 3×/week) intraperitoneally for 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks, then immunosuppressed for an additional 6 weeks. Rezafungin administered for 4 weeks prevented P. murina from developing infection after rezafungin was discontinued. In the treatment model, immunosuppressed mice with P. murina pneumonia were treated with rezafungin 20 mg/kg 3×/week intraperitoneally for 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks. Treatment with rezafungin for 8 weeks resulted in elimination of P. murina. Collectively, these studies showed that rezafungin could both prevent infection and eliminate P. murina from the lungs of mice. These findings support the obligate role of sexual reproduction for survival and growth of Pneumocystis spp. and warrant further investigation for treatment of P. jirovecii pneumonia in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie T. Cushion
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA;
- Cincinnati VAMC, Medical Research Service, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Alan Ashbaugh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA;
- Cincinnati VAMC, Medical Research Service, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
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Zhang H. Bridging antifungal prophylaxis with micafungin in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a retrospective analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 26:670-674. [PMID: 34493176 DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2021.1959982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of the study was to assess the tolerability and effectiveness of micafungin prophylaxis during the neutropenic phase in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Methods We conducted a retrospective study of 73 consecutive adults receiving antifungal prophylaxis with micafungin bridged to voriconazole/itraconazole in our center from July 2013 to March 2018. Clinical and transplant-related demographics and data on fungal infection post-transplant were collected. Results Micafungin was effective in 71 (97.3%) leukopenic patients. The fungal-free survival was 91.8%, 80.6%, and 77.6% respectively at 30, 60, and 100 days after HSCT. All patients had no micafungin-related adverse events. Conclusions The utility of micafungin bridged to voriconazole/ itraconazole for antifungal prophylaxis after HSCT is beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Zhang
- Department of General Practice, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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10
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Miesel L, Cushion MT, Ashbaugh A, Lopez SR, Ong V. Efficacy of Rezafungin in Prophylactic Mouse Models of Invasive Candidiasis, Aspergillosis, and Pneumocystis Pneumonia. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:e01992-20. [PMID: 33318018 PMCID: PMC8092522 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01992-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Antifungal prophylaxis is recommended to prevent invasive fungal disease caused by Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., and Pneumocystis jirovecii in patients at risk for opportunistic infections, such as allogeneic blood or marrow transplant recipients, patients with hematological disease undergoing chemotherapy, or patients on immunosuppressive therapies. Current approaches to antifungal prophylaxis require multiple agents to cover these key fungi. Rezafungin, a novel echinocandin designed for next-generation properties (e.g., greater stability and long-acting pharmacokinetics for once-weekly dosing), has demonstrated in vitro activity against Candida and Aspergillus spp. and efficacy against Pneumocystis spp. biofilms. Rezafungin was evaluated in in vivo studies of prophylactic efficacy using immunosuppressed mouse models of invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis, and Pneumocystis pneumonia. Rezafungin reduction of Candida CFU burden was generally greater with increasing drug concentrations (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg) and when rezafungin was administered closer to the time of fungal challenge (day -1, -3, or -5). Similarly, in the aspergillosis model, survival rates increased with drug concentrations and when rezafungin was administered closer to the time of fungal challenge. Against Pneumocystismurina, rezafungin significantly reduced trophic nuclei and asci counts at all doses tested. Rezafungin prevented infection at the two higher doses compared to vehicle and had comparable activity to the active control trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole at human equivalent doses for prevention. These findings support phase 3 development of rezafungin and the potential for single-agent prophylaxis against invasive fungal disease caused by Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., and Pneumocystis jirovecii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Miesel
- Pharmacology Discovery Services, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Melanie T Cushion
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Cincinnati VAMC, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Alan Ashbaugh
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Cincinnati VAMC, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Voon Ong
- Cidara Therapeutics, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
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Wong TY, Loo YS, Veettil SK, Wong PS, Divya G, Ching SM, Menon RK. Efficacy and safety of posaconazole for the prevention of invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised patients: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14575. [PMID: 32884060 PMCID: PMC7471265 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71571-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are a potentially life-threatening complication in immunocompromised patients. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of posaconazole as compared with other antifungal agents for preventing invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised patients. Embase, CENTRAL, and MEDLINE were searched for randomized conweekmonthtrolled trials (RCTs) up to June 2020. A systematic review with meta-analysis of RCTs was performed using random-effects model. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was conducted for the primary outcome to assess random errors. A total of five RCTs with 1,617 participants were included. Posaconazole prophylaxis was associated with a significantly lower risk of IFIs (RR, 0.43 [95% CI 0.28 to 0.66, p = 0.0001]) as compared to other antifungal agents. No heterogeneity was identified between studies (I2 = 0%). No significant associations were observed for the secondary outcomes measured, including risk reduction of invasive aspergillosis and candidiasis, clinical failure, all-cause mortality, and treatment-related adverse events, except for infection-related mortality (RR, 0.31 [95% CI 0.15 to 0.64, p = 0.0001]). Subgroup analysis favoured posaconazole over fluconazole for the prevention of IFIs (RR, 0.44 [95% CI 0.28 to 0.70, p = 0.0004]). TSA confirmed the prophylactic benefit of posaconazole against IFIs. Posaconazole is effective in preventing IFIs among immunocompromised patients, particularly those with hematologic malignancies and recipients of allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tse Yee Wong
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee Shen Loo
- School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sajesh Kalkandi Veettil
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Pei Se Wong
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Gopinath Divya
- Oral Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, School of Dentistry, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siew Mooi Ching
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Rohit Kunnath Menon
- Division of Clinical Dentistry, School of Dentistry, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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12
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Whited LK, Handy VW, Hosing C, Chow E. Incidence of viral and fungal complications after utilization of alternative donor sources in hematopoietic cell transplantation. Pharmacotherapy 2020; 40:773-787. [PMID: 32497299 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remains the only curable option for adult patients with hematologic malignancies. According to guidelines published by the American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, allogeneic HCT should be offered to all intermediate- and high-risk patients with acute leukemia. While matched-related donor (MRD) grafts continue to be the preferred stem cell source for allogeneic HCT, studies comparing MRD grafts to matched-unrelated donor (MUD) grafts showed comparable outcomes in patients with acute leukemia. Unfortunately, for those without a suitable matched-related graft, the probability of finding a suitable matched-unrelated donor varies significantly depending on racial and ethnic background. With allogeneic HCT procedures increasing year after year due to the increased availability of suitable donors, each of these alternative donor sources merits special clinical considerations, specifically with regard to infections. Infections remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality after allogeneic transplant, especially in those receiving alternative donor grafts. Due to the high-risk nature associated with these donor grafts, it is important to understand the true risk of developing infectious complications. While there are a multitude of infections that have been described in patients post-allogeneic HCT, this review seeks to focus on the incidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) and invasive fungal infections (IFI) in adult patients receiving alternative donor source transplantation for hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Whited
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Victoria W Handy
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chitra Hosing
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eric Chow
- Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC, Horsham, Pennsylvania, USA
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13
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Arad-Cohen N, Rowe JM, Shachor-Meyouhas Y. Pharmacological prophylaxis of infection in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia patients. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2020; 21:193-205. [PMID: 31914337 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1701654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Pediatric patients treated for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are at high risk of developing severe infectious complications. The choice of an optimum supportive treatment should be based on local epidemiology, as well as intensity and toxicity of the anti-leukemic therapy applied.Areas covered: This review presents an overview of recently published studies focusing on the prevention of infection in pediatric AML patients. PubMed has been systematically searched for clinical trials, reviews, and meta-analyses published in the last 10 years. The focus of this article will be limited to primary prophylaxis only, while secondary prophylaxis is beyond the scope of the current review.Expert opinion: Although anti-bacterial agents may decrease the bacterial infection burden, there is no consensus regarding prophylactic use. To that end, there is a need for further randomized controlled trials to establish the precise role of anti-bacterial prophylaxis in pediatric AML patients. The prophylactic use of anti-fungal agents is strongly recommended for all AML patients. Since the contribution of hematopoietic growth factors to improved survival has not been demonstrated, they should not be routinely applied. Decisions regarding an appropriate prophylactic strategy should be taken in collaboration with the infectious disease experts and pharmacology team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nira Arad-Cohen
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department, Ruth Rappaport Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jacob M Rowe
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel.,Department of Hematology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yael Shachor-Meyouhas
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel.,Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus, Ruth Rappaport Children's Hospital Haifa, Israel
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14
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Jonas BA, Pollyea DA. How we use venetoclax with hypomethylating agents for the treatment of newly diagnosed patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Leukemia 2019; 33:2795-2804. [PMID: 31628431 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-019-0612-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is associated with poor outcomes, especially in older patients in whom the disease is most common. B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) is an antiapoptotic protein involved in the survival and maintenance of AML, and it is overexpressed in the leukemia stem cell population. Venetoclax is an oral BCL-2 protein inhibitor recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in combination with a hypomethylating agent (HMA) (azacitidine or decitabine) or low-dose cytarabine for front-line treatment of AML in older patients or those unfit for induction chemotherapy. Given that its mechanism of action is unique, it is not surprising that this widely effective therapy presents unique challenges, including but not limited to the rapidity of responses, the rate and depth of cytopenias, and issues related to drug-drug interactions. With the recent FDA approval and increasingly widespread use, we aim here to summarize, based on evidence and experience, emerging management strategies for the combination of HMAs and venetoclax in the treatment of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A Jonas
- University of California Davis School of Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Sacramento, CA, USA.
| | - Daniel A Pollyea
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Aurora, CO, USA.
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15
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Yasu T, Konuma T, Oiwa-Monna M, Mizusawa M, Isobe M, Kato S, Takahashi S, Tojo A. Efficacy and safety of micafungin in unrelated cord blood transplant recipients. Ann Hematol 2019; 98:2593-2600. [PMID: 31494737 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-019-03790-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Micafungin (MCFG) is an echinocandin antifungal drug used for prophylaxis and treatment of fungal infections after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). However, its efficacy and safety in patients undergoing cord blood transplantation (CBT) has not been clarified. We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and safety of MCFG in 92 adult patients undergoing CBT in our institute. Of the entire cohort, 83 patients (90%) received MCFG for empirical or preemptive therapy. Documented breakthrough fungal infection occurred in 2 patients during MCFG treatment. Among the 49 patients who received MCFG as empirical therapy for febrile neutropenia, 41 (84%) patients had resolution of fever during neutropenia. Elevation of serum levels of hepatobiliary parameters during MCFG treatment was commonly observed, but grade 3 or higher elevation was rare. We also compared the efficacy and safety of 2 different initial daily doses of MCFG (150 mg vs. 300 mg). There were no significant differences of efficacy and safety between the two groups. These data suggest that MCFG was effective and safe for adult patients undergoing CBT. The optimal daily dose of MCFG treatment is a matter of future investigation for adult patients undergoing CBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeo Yasu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takaaki Konuma
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.
| | - Maki Oiwa-Monna
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Mai Mizusawa
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Masamichi Isobe
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Seiko Kato
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Satoshi Takahashi
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Arinobu Tojo
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1, Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
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16
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Cattaneo C, Gramegna D, Malagola M, Pagani C, Borlenghi E, Cerqui E, Passi A, Sciumé M, Bernardi S, Crippa C, Dalceggio D, Carbone C, Pelizzari AM, Re A, Russo D, Rossi G. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in acute leukemia: a still frequent condition with a negative impact on the overall treatment outcome. Leuk Lymphoma 2019; 60:3044-3050. [PMID: 31120311 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1613535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the impact of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) on epidemiology and outcome in acute leukemia (AL), analyzing all acute myeloid (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) consecutively admitted to our Institution during a 5-year period of observation. Only AML patients received anti-mold prophylaxis. Among 175 AL patients (136 AML/39 ALL), possible and proven/probable IPA were diagnosed in 28 (16%). Frequency of IPA was similar in AML (16.2%) and in ALL (15.4%). Two-year overall survival (OS) was significantly affected by IPA (no IPA: 69.8% vs IPA: 31.7% p = .002). OS was similar in patients with proven/probable (28.2%) and possible IPA (36.4%) (p = .003 and .065, respectively). When censoring patients at transplant, IPA still affected 2-year survival (49.6% vs 79.2%, p = .02), but only proven/probable IPA was associated with lower survival (34.7%, p = .0003). IPA negatively impacts on long-term survival of leukemia patients; antifungal prophylaxis should be adopted also during induction in ALL and in AML beyond induction therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michele Malagola
- Chair of Hematology, Unit of Blood Diseases and Stem Cell Transplantation, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Simona Bernardi
- Chair of Hematology, Unit of Blood Diseases and Stem Cell Transplantation, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Domenico Russo
- Chair of Hematology, Unit of Blood Diseases and Stem Cell Transplantation, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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17
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Bassetti M, Righi E, Montravers P, Cornely OA. What has changed in the treatment of invasive candidiasis? A look at the past 10 years and ahead. J Antimicrob Chemother 2018; 73:i14-i25. [PMID: 29304208 PMCID: PMC5890781 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkx445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of invasive candidiasis has changed greatly in the past decade and must continue to evolve if we are to improve outcomes in this serious infection. A review of recent history may provide insights for the future. The morbidity and mortality of invasive candidiasis remain difficult to measure despite an obvious clinical burden. Current treatment guidelines now recommend echinocandins as first-line empirical treatment, with fluconazole as an acceptable alternative for selected patients, reflecting the efficacy demonstrated by echinocandins and increasing resistance observed with fluconazole. The selection of antifungal therapy now must consider not only resistance but also the shift in predominance from Candida albicans to non-albicans species, notably Candida glabrata. The recent emergence of Candida auris has been met with great interest, although the longer-term implications of this phenomenon remain unclear. The broad goal of treatment continues to be administration of safe, efficacious antifungal therapy as soon as possible. Diagnostic methods beyond traditional blood culture present an opportunity to shorten the time to an accurate diagnosis, and earlier treatment initiation based on prophylactic and empirical or pre-emptive strategies seeks to ensure timely therapeutic intervention. In addition, there are novel agents in the antifungal pipeline. These developments, as well as ongoing studies of dosing, toxicity and resistance development, are important items on the current research agenda and may play a role in future changes to the treatment of invasive candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Bassetti
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of Medicine University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata, Presidio Ospedaliero Universitario Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Elda Righi
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of Medicine University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata, Presidio Ospedaliero Universitario Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Philippe Montravers
- Paris Diderot Sorbonne Cite University, and Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Bichat-Claude Bernard University Hospital, HUPNSV, AP-HP, INSERM UMR 1152, Paris, France
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Department I of Internal Medicine, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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