Pediatr. praxi. 2009;10(5):316-321

Systemic antifungal therapy in children - trends, experience, recommendation

doc. MUDr. Petr Sedláček, CSc, MUDr. Petra Keslová

Klinika dětské hematologie a onkologie, UK 2. LF a FN Motol, Praha

Despite enlarged spectrum of antifungal drugs invasive fungal infection (IFI) as a proportion of morbidity and mortality in children with

severe primary or secondary immunodeficiency is increasing. Candida species and Aspergillus species are the most common pathogens,

but incidence of resistant and other less frequent opportunistic pathogens is increasing. Use of several new effective antifungal drugs in

children (especially neonates, infants and toddlers) is limited by lack of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data. Therefore some of

these drugs are not licensed in children and dosing is not established. Some recommendation is availab le only in children since certain age

category. Inappropriate dosing may result in ineffective therapy when underdosed or excessive toxicity if overdosed. Complex diagnostics

and therapy of IFI in children is specific and requires broad team of experienced specialists with proper pediatric background.

Keywords: invasive fungal infection, systemic therapy, antifungal agents, yeasts, molds, children.

Published: December 1, 2009  Show citation