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Kahn D, Chen W, Linden Y, Corbeil KA, Lowry S, Higham CA, Mendez KS, Burch P, DiFondi T, Verhougstraete M, De Roos AJ, Haas CN, Gerba C, Hamilton KA. A microbial risk assessor's guide to Valley Fever (Coccidioides spp.): Case study and review of risk factors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170141. [PMID: 38242485 PMCID: PMC10923130 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Valley Fever is a respiratory disease caused by inhalation of arthroconidia, a type of spore produced by fungi within the genus Coccidioides spp. which are found in dry, hot ecosystems of the Western Hemisphere. A quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) for the disease has not yet been performed due to a lack of dose-response models and a scarcity of quantitative occurrence data from environmental samples. A literature review was performed to gather data on experimental animal dosing studies, environmental occurrence, human disease outbreaks, and meteorological associations. As a result, a risk framework is presented with information for parameterizing QMRA models for Coccidioides spp., with eight new dose-response models proposed. A probabilistic QMRA was conducted for a Southwestern US agricultural case study, evaluating eight scenarios related to farming occupational exposures. Median daily workday risks for developing severe Valley Fever ranged from 2.53 × 10-7 (planting by hand while wearing an N95 facemask) to 1.33 × 10-3 (machine harvesting while not wearing a facemask). The literature review and QMRA synthesis confirmed that exposure to aerosolized arthroconidia has the potential to result in high attack rates but highlighted that the mechanistic relationships between environmental conditions and disease remain poorly understood. Recommendations for Valley Fever risk assessment research needs in order to reduce disease risks are discussed, including interventions for farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Kahn
- Department of Civil Architectural and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - William Chen
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering & Earth Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Yarrow Linden
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Karalee A Corbeil
- Department of Water Management and Hydrological Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 79016, USA
| | - Sarah Lowry
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ciara A Higham
- Leeds Institute for Fluid Dynamics, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Karla S Mendez
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, School of Public Health, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Paige Burch
- Seaford High School, 1575 Seamans Neck Rd, Seaford, NY 11783, USA
| | - Taylor DiFondi
- Seaford High School, 1575 Seamans Neck Rd, Seaford, NY 11783, USA
| | - Marc Verhougstraete
- University of Arizona, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, 1295 N. Marton Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Anneclaire J De Roos
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Charles N Haas
- Department of Civil Architectural and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Charles Gerba
- University of Arizona, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, 1295 N. Marton Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Kerry A Hamilton
- The Biodesign Institute Center for Environmental Health Engineering, Arizona State University, 1001 S. McAllister Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA; School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA.
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2
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Kumar M, Keshwania P, Chopra S, Mahmood S, Bhatia A. Therapeutic Potential of Nanocarrier-Mediated Delivery of Phytoconstituents for Wound Healing: Their Current Status and Future Perspective. AAPS PharmSciTech 2023; 24:155. [PMID: 37468691 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-023-02616-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment of wounds is a serious problem all over the world and imposes a huge financial burden on each and every nation. For a long time, researchers have explored wound dressing that speeds up wound healing. Traditional wound dressing does not respond effectively to the wound-healing process as expected. Therapeutic active derived from plant extracts and extracted bioactive components have been employed in various regions of the globe since ancient times for the purpose of illness, prevention, and therapy. About 200 years ago, most medical treatments were based on herbal remedies. Especially in the West, the usage of herbal treatments began to wane in the 1960s as a result of the rise of allopathic medicine. In recent years, however, there has been a resurgence of interest in and demand for herbal medicines for a number of reasons, including claims about their efficacy, shifting consumer preferences toward natural medicines, high costs and negative side effects of modern medicines, and advancements in herbal medicines brought about by scientific research and technological innovation. The exploration of medicinal plants and their typical uses could potentially result in advanced pharmaceuticals that exhibit reduced adverse effects. This review aims to present an overview of the utilization of nanocarriers in plant-based therapeutics, including its current status, recent advancements, challenges, and future prospects. The objective is to equip researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the historical background, current state, and potential future developments in this emerging field. In light of this, the advantages of nanocarriers based delivery of natural wound healing treatments have been discussed, with a focus on nanofibers, nanoparticles, nano-emulsion, and nanogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohit Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU), Bathinda, 151001, Punjab, India
| | - Puja Keshwania
- Department of Microbiology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, 133207, India
| | - Shruti Chopra
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201313, India
| | - Syed Mahmood
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amit Bhatia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU), Bathinda, 151001, Punjab, India.
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3
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Thompson GR, Ampel NM, Blair JE, Donovan F, Fierer J, Galgiani JN, Heidari A, Johnson R, Shatsky SA, Uchiyama CM, Stevens DA. Controversies in the Management of Central Nervous System Coccidioidomycosis. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:555-559. [PMID: 35717645 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system infection with Coccidioides spp is fatal if untreated, and complications occur even when therapy is directed by experienced clinicians. We convened a panel of clinicians experienced in the management of coccidioidal meningitis to summarize current controversies and provide consensus for the management of this difficult infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California-Davis Medical Center; Sacramento, CA USA.,University of California - Davis Center for Valley Fever, Sacramento, CA USA
| | - Neil M Ampel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA.,University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Janis E Blair
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Fariba Donovan
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Valley Fever Center for Excellence, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Joshua Fierer
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Infectious Diseases Section, VA Healthcare San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - John N Galgiani
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Valley Fever Center for Excellence, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Arash Heidari
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, CA, USA.,Valley Fever Institute, Kern Medical Center, Bakersfield, CA, USA
| | - Royce Johnson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, CA, USA.,Valley Fever Institute, Kern Medical Center, Bakersfield, CA, USA
| | | | - Christopher M Uchiyama
- Department of Neurosurgery, Scripps Clinic and Scripps Green Hospital, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - David A Stevens
- California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, CA, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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4
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León-Buitimea A, Garza-Cervantes JA, Gallegos-Alvarado DY, Osorio-Concepción M, Morones-Ramírez JR. Nanomaterial-Based Antifungal Therapies to Combat Fungal Diseases Aspergillosis, Coccidioidomycosis, Mucormycosis, and Candidiasis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101303. [PMID: 34684252 PMCID: PMC8539376 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last years, invasive infections caused by filamentous fungi have constituted a serious threat to public health worldwide. Aspergillus, Coccidioides, Mucorales (the most common filamentous fungi), and Candida auris (non-filamentous fungus) can cause infections in humans. They are able to cause critical life-threatening illnesses in immunosuppressed individuals, patients with HIV/AIDS, uncontrolled diabetes, hematological diseases, transplantation, and chemotherapy. In this review, we describe the available nanoformulations (both metallic and polymers-based nanoparticles) developed to increase efficacy and reduce the number of adverse effects after the administration of conventional antifungals. To treat aspergillosis and infections caused by Candida, multiple strategies have been used to develop new therapeutic alternatives, such as incorporating coating materials, complexes synthesized by green chemistry, or coupled with polymers. However, the therapeutic options for coccidioidomycosis and mucormycosis are limited; most of them are in the early stages of development. Therefore, more research needs to be performed to develop new therapeutic alternatives that contribute to the progress of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel León-Buitimea
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
| | - Javier A. Garza-Cervantes
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
| | - Diana Y. Gallegos-Alvarado
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
| | - Macario Osorio-Concepción
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
| | - José Ruben Morones-Ramírez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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5
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Abstract
Coccidioidomycosis, caused by the dimorphic pathogenic fungi Coccidioides immitis and Coccidioides posadassi, is endemic to the southwestern United states and Central and South America. The incidence of coccidioidomycosis continues to increase. Coccidioidomycosis is typically a self-limiting influenza-like respiratory illness; however, it can lead to disseminated disease outside of the lungs. Not all nondisseminated cases require therapy, but antifungal therapy is typically beneficial requiring treatment ranging from months to lifelong. Clinical factors related to treatment decisions include severity of symptoms, radiography, coccidioidomycosis serologic results, and concurrent medical problems including immunosuppression. This review summarizes the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek J Bays
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4150 V Street, PSSB, Suite G500, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - George R Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4150 V Street, PSSB, Suite G500, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
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6
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Barani M, Mukhtar M, Rahdar A, Sargazi G, Thysiadou A, Kyzas GZ. Progress in the Application of Nanoparticles and Graphene as Drug Carriers and on the Diagnosis of Brain Infections. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26010186. [PMID: 33401658 PMCID: PMC7795866 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26010186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is the protective sheath around the brain that protects the sensitive microenvironments of the brain. However, certain pathogens, viruses, and bacteria disrupt the endothelial barrier and cause infection and hence inflammation in meninges. Macromolecular therapeutics are unable to cross the tight junctions, thereby limiting their bioavailability in the brain. Recently, nanotechnology has brought a revolution in the field of drug delivery in brain infections. The nanostructures have high targeting accuracy and specificity to the receptors in the case of active targeting, which have made them the ideal cargoes to permeate across the BBB. In addition, nanomaterials with biomimetic functions have been introduced to efficiently cross the BBB to be engulfed by the pathogens. This review focuses on the nanotechnology-based drug delivery approaches for exploration in brain infections, including meningitis. Viruses, bacteria, fungi, or, rarely, protozoa or parasites may be the cause of brain infections. Moreover, inflammation of the meninges, called meningitis, is presently diagnosed using laboratory and imaging tests. Despite attempts to improve diagnostic instruments for brain infections and meningitis, due to its complicated and multidimensional nature and lack of successful diagnosis, meningitis appears almost untreatable. Potential for overcoming the difficulties and limitations related to conventional diagnostics has been shown by nanoparticles (NPs). Nanomedicine now offers new methods and perspectives to improve our knowledge of meningitis and can potentially give meningitis patients new hope. Here, we review traditional diagnosis tools and key nanoparticles (Au-NPs, graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), QDs, etc.) for early diagnosis of brain infections and meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Barani
- Department of Chemistry, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman 76169-14111, Iran;
| | - Mahwash Mukhtar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Regulatory Affairs, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Abbas Rahdar
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Zabol, Zabol 538-98615, Iran
- Correspondence: (A.R.); (G.Z.K.); Tel.: +30-2510-462218 (G.Z.K.)
| | - Ghasem Sargazi
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Bam University of Medical Science, Bam 5166-15731, Iran;
| | - Anna Thysiadou
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, 65404 Kavala, Greece;
| | - George Z. Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, 65404 Kavala, Greece;
- Correspondence: (A.R.); (G.Z.K.); Tel.: +30-2510-462218 (G.Z.K.)
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7
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Kischkel B, Rossi SA, Santos SR, Nosanchuk JD, Travassos LR, Taborda CP. Therapies and Vaccines Based on Nanoparticles for the Treatment of Systemic Fungal Infections. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:463. [PMID: 33014889 PMCID: PMC7502903 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment modalities for systemic mycoses are still limited. Currently, the main antifungal therapeutics include polyenes, azoles, and echinocandins. However, even in the setting of appropriate administration of antifungals, mortality rates remain unacceptably high. Moreover, antifungal therapy is expensive, treatment periods can range from weeks to years, and toxicity is also a serious concern. In recent years, the increased number of immunocompromised individuals has contributed to the high global incidence of systemic fungal infections. Given the high morbidity and mortality rates, the complexity of treatment strategies, drug toxicity, and the worldwide burden of disease, there is a need for new and efficient therapeutic means to combat invasive mycoses. One promising avenue that is actively being pursued is nanotechnology, to develop new antifungal therapies and efficient vaccines, since it allows for a targeted delivery of drugs and antigens, which can reduce toxicity and treatment costs. The goal of this review is to discuss studies using nanoparticles to develop new therapeutic options, including vaccination methods, to combat systemic mycoses caused by Candida sp., Cryptococcus sp., Paracoccidioides sp., Histoplasma sp., Coccidioides sp., and Aspergillus sp., in addition to providing important information on the use of different types of nanoparticles, nanocarriers and their corresponding mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Kischkel
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratory of Medical Mycology-Institute of Tropical Medicine of São Paulo/LIM53/Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Suélen A Rossi
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratory of Medical Mycology-Institute of Tropical Medicine of São Paulo/LIM53/Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Samuel R Santos
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratory of Medical Mycology-Institute of Tropical Medicine of São Paulo/LIM53/Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joshua D Nosanchuk
- Departments of Medicine [Division of Infectious Diseases], Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Luiz R Travassos
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos P Taborda
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratory of Medical Mycology-Institute of Tropical Medicine of São Paulo/LIM53/Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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8
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Van Dyke MCC, Thompson GR, Galgiani JN, Barker BM. The Rise of Coccidioides: Forces Against the Dust Devil Unleashed. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2188. [PMID: 31572393 PMCID: PMC6749157 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coccidioidomycosis (Valley fever) is a fungal disease caused by the inhalation of Coccidioides posadasii or C. immitis. This neglected disease occurs in the desert areas of the western United States, most notably in California and Arizona, where infections continue to rise. Clinically, coccidioidomycosis ranges from asymptomatic to severe pulmonary disease and can disseminate to the brain, skin, bones, and elsewhere. New estimates suggest as many as 350,000 new cases of coccidioidomycosis occur in the United States each year. Thus, there is an urgent need for the development of a vaccine and new therapeutic drugs against Coccidioides infection. In this review, we discuss the battle against Coccidioides including the development of potential vaccines, the quest for new therapeutic drugs, and our current understanding of the protective host immune response to Coccidioides infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George R Thompson
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - John N Galgiani
- Valley Fever Center for Excellence, Department of Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Bridget M Barker
- Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, United States
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9
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Jackson NR, Blair JE, Ampel NM. Central Nervous System Infections Due to Coccidioidomycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5030054. [PMID: 31261704 PMCID: PMC6787616 DOI: 10.3390/jof5030054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Coccidioidomycosis is a common infection in the western and southwestern United States as well as parts of Mexico and Central and South America and is due to the soil-dwelling fungi Coccidioides. Central nervous system (CNS) infection is an uncommon manifestation that is nearly always fatal if untreated. The presentation is subtle, commonly with headache and decreased mentation. The diagnosis should be considered in patients with these symptoms in association with a positive serum coccidioidal antibody test. The diagnosis can only be established by analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which typically demonstrates a lymphocytic pleocytosis, hypoglycorrhachia, elevated protein, and positive CSF coccidioidal antibody. Cultures are infrequently positive but a proprietary coccidioidal antigen test has reasonable sensitivity. Current therapy usually begins with fluconazole at 800 mg daily but other triazole antifungals also have efficacy and are often used if fluconazole fails. Triazole therapy should be lifelong. Intrathecal amphotericin B, the original treatment, is now reserved for those in whom triazoles have failed. There are several distinct complications of CNS coccidioidal infection, the most common of which is hydrocephalus. This is nearly always communicating and requires mechanical shunting in addition to antifungal therapy. Other complications include cerebral vasculitis, brain abscess, and arachnoiditis. Management of these is difficult and not well established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki R Jackson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA
| | - Janis E Blair
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA
| | - Neil M Ampel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA.
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
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10
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Fiani B, Nguyen A, Quadri SA, Farooqui M, Zafar A, Sodhi A, Kerkar S, Nacionales D, Fischberg GM. Trending serial CSF samples to guide treatment of refractory coccidioidal meningitis with intrathecal liposomal amphotericin. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2019; 181:41-43. [PMID: 30986725 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2019.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Intrathecal amphotericin B deoxycholate (AmB-d) can be prescribed as an adjunct to systemic therapy for severe or recalcitrant cases coccidioidal meningitis. Recently intravenous (IV) Liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) has been recommended as monotherapy therapy for refractory coccidioidal meningitis based on its advantages over (AmB-d), however, its intrathecal use has not been reported. Moreover, there is nothing in the literature quantifying clinical improvement with objective laboratory data in human patients. Consequently, there are no guidelines on how to monitor regularly for improvement of coccidioidal meningitis with treatment of intrathecal L-AmB. The present case addresses both of these. We report intrathecal use of L-AmB for refractory coccidioidal meningitis. Our data demonstrate that there is a correlation between clinical improvement and a decrease in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) white blood cells (WBC's), protein, and coccidioidal titers with treatment of intrathecal L-AmB with serial collection of CSF studies at the same site, in our case via collection through an external ventricular drain (EVD). As a result, one may postulate that serial CSF collection can be used to monitor the treatment of coccidioidal meningitis; however this case also addresses the risk of developing ventriculitis with sustained EVD placement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Fiani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA.
| | - Alvin Nguyen
- Department of Neurology, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
| | - Syed A Quadri
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mudassir Farooqui
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Atif Zafar
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Ajeet Sodhi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
| | - Shubha Kerkar
- Infectious Disease, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
| | - David Nacionales
- Department of Neurosurgery, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
| | - Glenn M Fischberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA, USA
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11
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Thompson GR, Lewis JS, Nix DE, Patterson TF. Current Concepts and Future Directions in the Pharmacology and Treatment of Coccidioidomycosis. Med Mycol 2019; 57:S76-S84. [PMID: 30690601 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myy029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Coccidioidomycosis remains a significant clinical problem with substantial morbidity and mortality. The vast majority of infections are asymptomatic and the need for early primary therapy remains controversial. The use of triazole antifungals has improved tolerability of therapy but concerns about acute and long-term toxicities among available agents limit their use. In addition, recent findings of decreased in vitro fluconazole susceptibility to as many as 37% of Coccidioides spp. isolates raises concerns regarding optimal therapy for these infections as fluconazole is commonly used for therapy including central nervous system disease. Thus, new agents from novel antifungal classes are currently in preclinical and clinical development aimed at reducing toxicity and improving outcomes of these serious infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R Thompson
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis; Davis, California, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Davis Medical Center; Sacramento, California, USA
| | - James S Lewis
- Department of Pharmacy, Oregon Health & Science University Hospital and Clinics, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - David E Nix
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Thomas F Patterson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, UT Health San Antonio, and the South Texas Veterans Health Care System; San Antonio, Texas, USA
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The Effects of Mentha × piperita Essential Oil on C. albicans Growth, Transition, Biofilm Formation, and the Expression of Secreted Aspartyl Proteinases Genes. Antibiotics (Basel) 2019; 8:antibiotics8010010. [PMID: 30704020 PMCID: PMC6466576 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics8010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The rise in resistance and changes in the spectrum of Candida infections have generated enormous interest in developing new antifungal drugs using natural molecules such as plant essential oils (EOs). Antimicrobial activity against foodborne pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms has been reported for EOs. The goal of this study was to assess the effect of Mentha × piperita essential oil (EO) on C. albicans growth, transition (change from blastospore to hyphae forms), and biofilm formation as well as on the expression of certain virulent genes. We show that whole EO and its vapor attenuated the yeast’s growth, compared to that in the control. The effect of the EO was comparable to that of amphotericin-B (AmB). The EO and its vapor significantly decreased the morphological changes of C. albicans, reduced biofilm formation, and disrupted mature C. albicans biofilms. The effect produced by whole EO on biofilm formation/disruption was notably comparable to that observed with AmB. Exposure of C. albicans to EO and its vapor downregulated the expression of various genes, such as secreted aspartyl proteinases (SAP 1, 2, 3, 9, 10) and hyphal wall protein 1 (HWP1). Altogether, these results provide new insight into the efficacy of Mentha × piperita EO against C. albicans and suggest the potential of Mentha × piperita EO for use as an antifungal therapy in multiple applications.
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Evaluation of Amphotericin B Lipid Formulations for Treatment of Severe Coccidioidomycosis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2018; 62:AAC.02293-17. [PMID: 29686150 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02293-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with severe coccidioidomycosis infections are often treated with either amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC) or liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB). Outcome data with these agents in severe coccidioidomycosis cases are currently lacking. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of ABLC and L-AmB in treating severe coccidioidomycosis. A retrospective pre-post study design was employed. Chart reviews were completed from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2014 for all patients who received lipid-based amphotericin B. Inclusion criteria included having a follow-up complement fixation (CF) titer or a treatment emergent adverse event (TEAE) prior to follow-up. Patients with meningeal involvement and pregnant patients were excluded. Treatment outcomes were assessed based on documented completion of therapy as well on symptoms, complement fixation titer, and changes to laboratory monitoring parameters. A total of 108 patients were identified, 69 of whom met the inclusion criteria. There were no statistical differences in demographics or disease burden in those that received ABLC and those that received L-AmB, except that those who received L-AmB were more likely to have previously diagnosed chronic kidney disease (nL-AmB = 4, 12.5% vs nABLC = 0, 0.0%; P = 0.042) and to have a lower creatinine clearance at the start of therapy (L-AmB = 79.6 mg/dl versus ABLC = 100.4 mg/dl; P = 0.008). Successful treatment was achieved in 27 (73.0%) of ABLC patients and 22 (68.8%) of L-AmB patients (P = 0.700). Amphotericin B was discontinued due to documented completion of therapy for 17 (45.9%) ABLC patients and 18 (56.3%) L-AmB patients (P = 0.553). Acute kidney injury (AKI) was the documented reason of treatment cessation for 10 (27.0%) ABLC and 1 (3.1%) L-AmB patient (P = 0.007). ABLC and L-AmB both appear to be equally efficacious in the treatment of severe coccidioidomycosis. L-AmB may have less renal toxicity than ABLC and may be the preferred agent in baseline renal impairment.
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14
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Johnson R, Ho J, Fowler P, Heidari A. Coccidioidal Meningitis: A Review on Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management of Complications. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11910-018-0824-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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15
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Stewart ER, Eldridge ML, McHardy I, Cohen SH, Thompson GR. Liposomal Amphotericin B as Monotherapy in Relapsed Coccidioidal Meningitis. Mycopathologia 2018; 183:619-622. [PMID: 29340909 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-017-0240-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Coccidioidal meningitis remains a difficult clinical problem, and despite life-long therapy with triazole antifungals, relapses of disease and medication intolerance occur necessitating salvage treatment. We report two patients with recurrent coccidioidal meningitis who improved following a 2-week course of liposomal amphotericin B monotherapy and discuss potential advantages of this treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan R Stewart
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4150 V Street, Suite G500, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Matthew L Eldridge
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4150 V Street, Suite G500, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Ian McHardy
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California - Davis, One Shields Ave, Tupper Hall, Rm 3138, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Stuart H Cohen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4150 V Street, Suite G500, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - George R Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4150 V Street, Suite G500, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA. .,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California - Davis, One Shields Ave, Tupper Hall, Rm 3138, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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16
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Ho J, Fowler P, Heidari A, Johnson RH. Intrathecal Amphotericin B: A 60-Year Experience in Treating Coccidioidal Meningitis. Clin Infect Dis 2017; 64:519-524. [PMID: 27927853 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciw794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Coccidioidal meningitis (CM) is a devastating complication of coccidioidomycosis. Since the late 1950s, intrathecal (IT) amphotericin B deoxycholate (AmBd) has been successfully used to treat and often cure this disease, reducing mortality rates from 100% to approximately 30%. The introduction of azoles further revolutionized the treatment of coccidioidal infections. However, IT AmBd remains the only known curative option in the management of CM. While the use of IT AmBd is well described in many articles, few discuss the actual methods behind preparation, titration, and dosing strategies utilized. The practitioners at Kern Medical (Bakersfield, California) have >60 years of experience in the utilization of IT AmBd and the treatment of CM. This article describes the practice experience in the treatment of CM, preparation of IT AmBd, and the different dosing strategies used in regard to route of administration (ie, cisternal, lumbar, ventricular).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackie Ho
- Department of Pharmacy, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, California, USA
| | - Pete Fowler
- Department of Pharmacy, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, California, USA
| | - Arash Heidari
- Department of Medicine, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, California, USA.,David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Royce H Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, California, USA.,David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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17
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Voltan AR, Quindós G, Alarcón KPM, Fusco-Almeida AM, Mendes-Giannini MJS, Chorilli M. Fungal diseases: could nanostructured drug delivery systems be a novel paradigm for therapy? Int J Nanomedicine 2016; 11:3715-30. [PMID: 27540288 PMCID: PMC4982498 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s93105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive mycoses are a major problem for immunocompromised individuals and patients in intensive care units. Morbidity and mortality rates of these infections are high because of late diagnosis and delayed treatment. Moreover, the number of available antifungal agents is low, and there are problems with toxicity and resistance. Alternatives for treating invasive fungal infections are necessary. Nanostructured systems could be excellent carriers for antifungal drugs, reducing toxicity and targeting their action. The use of nanostructured systems for antifungal therapy began in the 1990s, with the appearance of lipid formulations of amphotericin B. This review encompasses different antifungal drug delivery systems, such as liposomes, carriers based on solid lipids and nanostructure lipids, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, and others. All these delivery systems have advantages and disadvantages. Main advantages are the improvement in the antifungal properties, such as bioavailability, reduction in toxicity, and target tissue, which facilitates innovative therapeutic techniques. Conversely, a major disadvantage is the high cost of production. In the near future, the use of nanosystems for drug delivery strategies can be used for delivering peptides, including mucoadhesive systems for the treatment of oral and vaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Raquel Voltan
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Guillermo Quindós
- Immunology, Microbiology, and Parasitology Department, Facultad de Medicina y Odontología, Universidad del País Vasco, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Kaila P Medina Alarcón
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Marisa Fusco-Almeida
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Marlus Chorilli
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Univ. Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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18
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Galgiani JN, Ampel NM, Blair JE, Catanzaro A, Geertsma F, Hoover SE, Johnson RH, Kusne S, Lisse J, MacDonald JD, Meyerson SL, Raksin PB, Siever J, Stevens DA, Sunenshine R, Theodore N. 2016 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) Clinical Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Coccidioidomycosis. Clin Infect Dis 2016; 63:e112-46. [PMID: 27470238 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciw360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 319] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
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. Infectious Diseases Society of America 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.Coccidioidomycosis, also known as San Joaquin Valley fever, is a systemic infection endemic to parts of the southwestern United States and elsewhere in the Western Hemisphere. Residence in and recent travel to these areas are critical elements for the accurate recognition of patients who develop this infection. In this practice guideline, we have organized our recommendations to address actionable questions concerning the entire spectrum of clinical syndromes. These can range from initial pulmonary infection, which eventually resolves whether or not antifungal therapy is administered, to a variety of pulmonary and extrapulmonary complications. Additional recommendations address management of coccidioidomycosis occurring for special at-risk populations. Finally, preemptive management strategies are outlined in certain at-risk populations and after unintentional laboratory exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neil M Ampel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Arizona, Tucson
| | - Janis E Blair
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Antonino Catanzaro
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of California, San Diego
| | - Francesca Geertsma
- Department of Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, California
| | | | - Royce H Johnson
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Department of Medicine, Kern Medical Center, Bakersfield, California
| | - Shimon Kusne
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Jeffrey Lisse
- Department of Rheumatology, University of Arizona, Tucson
| | - Joel D MacDonald
- Department of Neurosurgery School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City
| | - Shari L Meyerson
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine
| | - Patricia B Raksin
- Division of Neurosurgery, John H. Stroger Jr Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - David A Stevens
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, California
| | - Rebecca Sunenshine
- Career Epidemiology Field Officer Program, Division of State and Local Readiness, Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Maricopa County Department of Public Health
| | - Nicholas Theodore
- Department of Neurosurgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona
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Topical delivery of aceclofenac: challenges and promises of novel drug delivery systems. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:406731. [PMID: 25045671 PMCID: PMC4086417 DOI: 10.1155/2014/406731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Revised: 04/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA), a common musculoskeletal disorder, is projected to affect about 60 million people of total world population by 2020. The associated pain and disability impair the quality of life and also pose economic burden to the patient. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely prescribed in OA, while diclofenac is the most prescribed one. Oral NSAIDs are not very patient friendly, as they cause various gastrointestinal adverse effects like bleeding, ulceration, and perforation. To enhance the tolerability of diclofenac and decrease the common side effects, aceclofenac (ACE) was developed by its chemical modification. As expected, ACE is more well-tolerated than diclofenac and possesses superior efficacy but is not completely devoid of the NSAID-tagged side effects. A series of chemical modifications of already planned drug is unjustified as it consumes quanta of time, efforts, and money, and this approach will also pose stringent regulatory challenges. Therefore, it is justified to deliver ACE employing tools of drug delivery and nanotechnology to refine its safety profile. The present review highlights the constraints related to the topical delivery of ACE and the various attempts made so far for the safe and effective topical delivery employing the novel materials and methods.
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20
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Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) infections—i.e., infections involving the brain (cerebrum and cerebellum), spinal cord, optic nerves, and their covering membranes—are medical emergencies that are associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, or long-term sequelae that may have catastrophic implications for the quality of life of affected individuals. Acute CNS infections that warrant neurointensive care (ICU) admission fall broadly into three categories—meningitis, encephalitis, and abscesses—and generally result from blood-borne spread of the respective microorganisms. Other causes of CNS infections include head trauma resulting in fractures at the base of the skull or the cribriform plate that can lead to an opening between the CNS and the sinuses, mastoid, the middle ear, or the nasopharynx. Extrinsic contamination of the CNS can occur intraoperatively during neurosurgical procedures. Also, implanted medical devices or adjunct hardware (e.g., shunts, ventriculostomies, or external drainage tubes) and congenital malformations (e.g., spina bifida or sinus tracts) can become colonized and serve as sources or foci of infection. Viruses, such as rabies, herpes simplex virus, or polioviruses, can spread to the CNS via intraneural pathways resulting in encephalitis. If infection occurs at sites (e.g., middle ear or mastoid) contiguous with the CNS, infection may spread directly into the CNS causing brain abscesses; alternatively, the organism may reach the CNS indirectly via venous drainage or the sheaths of cranial and spinal nerves. Abscesses also may become localized in the subdural or epidural spaces. Meningitis results if bacteria spread directly from an abscess to the subarachnoid space. CNS abscesses may be a result of pyogenic meningitis or from septic emboli associated with endocarditis, lung abscess, or other serious purulent infections. Breaches of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) can result in CNS infections. Causes of such breaches include damage (e.g., microhemorrhage or necrosis of surrounding tissue) to the BBB; mechanical obstruction of microvessels by parasitized red blood cells, leukocytes, or platelets; overproduction of cytokines that degrade tight junction proteins; or microbe-specific interactions with the BBB that facilitate transcellular passage of the microorganism. The microorganisms that cause CNS infections include a wide range of bacteria, mycobacteria, yeasts, fungi, viruses, spirochaetes (e.g., neurosyphilis), and parasites (e.g., cerebral malaria and strongyloidiasis). The clinical picture of the various infections can be nonspecific or characterized by distinct, recognizable clinical syndromes. At some juncture, individuals with severe acute CNS infections require critical care management that warrants neuro-ICU admission. The implications for CNS infections are serious and complex and include the increased human and material resources necessary to manage very sick patients, the difficulties in triaging patients with vague or mild symptoms, and ascertaining the precise cause and degree of CNS involvement at the time of admission to the neuro-ICU. This chapter addresses a wide range of severe CNS infections that are better managed in the neuro-ICU. Topics covered include the medical epidemiology of the respective CNS infection; discussions of the relevant neuroanatomy and blood supply (essential for understanding the pathogenesis of CNS infections) and pathophysiology; symptoms and signs; diagnostic procedures, including essential neuroimaging studies; therapeutic options, including empirical therapy where indicated; and the perennial issue of the utility and effectiveness of steroid therapy for certain CNS infections. Finally, therapeutic options and alternatives are discussed, including the choices of antimicrobial agents best able to cross the BBB, supportive therapy, and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Joseph Layon
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Geisinger Health System, Danville, Pennsylvania USA
| | - Andrea Gabrielli
- Departments of Anesthesiology & Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida USA
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21
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Reflections on the approach to treatment of a mycologic disaster. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2013; 57:1567-72. [PMID: 23384533 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02242-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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23
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Thompson GR. Strategies to Combat Coccidioidomycosis: Are We Making Any Progress? CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s12281-011-0066-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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24
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Hector RF, Rutherford GW, Tsang CA, Erhart LM, McCotter O, Anderson SM, Komatsu K, Tabnak F, Vugia DJ, Yang Y, Galgiani JN. The public health impact of coccidioidomycosis in Arizona and California. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2011; 8:1150-73. [PMID: 21695034 PMCID: PMC3118883 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph8041150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The numbers of reported cases of coccidioidomycosis in Arizona and California have risen dramatically over the past decade, with a 97.8% and 91.1% increase in incidence rates from 2001 to 2006 in the two states, respectively. Of those cases with reported race/ethnicity information, Black/African Americans in Arizona and Hispanics and African/Americans in California experienced a disproportionately higher frequency of disease compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Lack of early diagnosis continues to be a problem, particularly in suspect community-acquired pneumonia, underscoring the need for more rapid and sensitive tests. Similarly, the inability of currently available therapeutics to reduce the duration and morbidity of this disease underscores the need for improved therapeutics and a preventive vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F Hector
- Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco,1200 Beale St, #1200, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA.
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Abstract
The endemic mycoses are a diverse group of diseases caused by thermally dimorphic fungi. While they share many characteristics, each has unique aspects with regards to their clinical course, diagnosis and management. Diagnosis may be difficult and delayed owing to the varied manifestations and wide differential diagnosis. Historically, treatment has been with amphotericin B, which has been limited by its significant toxicity. The advent of the azole class of medications has allowed for safer alternatives to amphotericin B. The azoles have become the mainstay of treatment for many, if not most, forms of these diseases. Guidelines have been released for the management of each of the North American endemic mycoses; however, many questions remain as to the best strategies for the diagnosis and management of various manifestations of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyur S Vyas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham, Mail Slot #639, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA.
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