Candidemia in Cancer Patients: Focus Mainly on Hematological Malignancyand Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Recent Updates on Antifungal Peptides

The current trend of increment in the frequency of antifungal resistance has brought research into an era where new antifungal compounds with novel mechanisms of action are required. Natural antimicrobial peptides, which are ubiquitous components of innate immunity, represent their candidature for novel antifungal peptides. Various antifungal peptides have been isolated from different species ranging from small marine organisms to insects and from various other living species. Based on these peptides, various mimetics of antifungal peptides have also been synthesized using non-natural amino acids. Utilization of these antifungal peptides is somehow limited due to their toxic and unstable nature. This review discusses recent updates and future directions of antifungal peptides, for taking them to the shelf from the bench.

Candidemia in the cancer patient: diagnosis, treatment, and future directions

INTRODUCTION

The presence of Candida species in the blood is known as candidemia and may constitute a medical emergency for patients with cancer. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment of this fungal infection, mortality remains unacceptably high. Areas covered: This paper reviews recent advances in molecular diagnostics to detect species of Candida as well as novel antifungal agents that have been developed to address candidiasis. We also review prophylaxis strategies to prevent candidiasis in high-risk cancer patients. Expert commentary: We draw from our own experiences treating candidemia in the cancer patient and review novel diagnostic strategies involving molecular resonance and mass spectroscopy. We also explore novel chemoprophylaxis and treatment options, including new drugs such as rezafungin and SCY-078. We also look ahead, to examine how this condition will be managed in the years ahead.