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Antifungal drugs and rational use of antifungals in treating invasive aspergillosis: the role of the hospital pharmacist

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Abstract

Aim:This review discusses the most common used antifungal agents in the treatment of invasive fungal infections. In addition, guidelines for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis, as used in the Ghent University Hospital, are described. Moreover, the importance of determining the effectiveness of antifungal therapy as well as the potential role of the hospital pharmacist in the management of this infection is highlighted.

Methods:A review of the English-language literature was conducted using the MEDLINE database and scientific websites. Search terms including antimycotics, antifungal therapy and invasive aspergillosis were used to refine the search, and preference was given to studies published after 1992. This was completed with recent treatment guidelines.

Results:An overview of the most recent advances in antifungal therapy is described. In addition, a flowchart for treatment of invasive aspergillosis (proven, probable or possible) has been developed.

Conclusion:Invasive fungal infections will remain a frequent and important complication of modern medicine. Considering the clinical and financial outcome of invasive fungal infections, the role of the hospital pharmacist can be a paramount to the treatment.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmacy, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000, Ghent, Belgium

    Tiene G. M Bauters, Franky M. A. Buyle & Hugo Robays

  2. Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000, Ghent, Belgium

    Renaat Peleman

Authors
  1. Tiene G. M Bauters
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  2. Franky M. A. Buyle
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  3. Renaat Peleman
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  4. Hugo Robays
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Correspondence to Tiene G. M Bauters.

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Bauters, T.G.M., Buyle, F.M.A., Peleman, R. et al. Antifungal drugs and rational use of antifungals in treating invasive aspergillosis: the role of the hospital pharmacist. Pharm World Sci 27, 31–34 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11096-004-1735-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11096-004-1735-0

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