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Qureshi ZA, Ghazanfar H, Altaf F, Ghazanfar A, Hasan KZ, Kandhi S, Fortuzi K, Dileep A, Shrivastava S. Cryptococcosis and Cryptococcal Meningitis: A Narrative Review and the Up-to-Date Management Approach. Cureus 2024; 16:e55498. [PMID: 38571832 PMCID: PMC10990067 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is a fungal infectious disease that enormously impacts human health worldwide. Cryptococcal meningitis is the most severe disease caused by the fungus Cryptococcus, and can lead to death, if left untreated. Many patients develop resistance and progress to death even after treatment. It requires a prolonged treatment course in people with AIDS. This narrative review provides an evidence-based summary of the current treatment modalities and future trial options, including newer ones, namely, 18B7, T-2307, VT-1598, AR12, manogepix, and miltefosine. This review also evaluated the management and empiric treatment of cryptococcus meningitis. The disease can easily evade diagnosis with subacute presentation. Despite the severity of the disease, treatment options for cryptococcosis remain limited, and more research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaheer A Qureshi
- Medicine, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University, Bridgeport, USA
| | | | - Faryal Altaf
- Internal Medicine, BronxCare Health System, New York City, USA
| | - Ali Ghazanfar
- Internal Medicine, Federal Medical and Dental College, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Khushbu Z Hasan
- Internal Medicine, Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Medical College, Mirpur, PAK
| | - Sameer Kandhi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, BronxCare Health System, New York City, USA
| | - Ked Fortuzi
- Internal Medicine, BronxCare Health System, New York City, USA
| | | | - Shitij Shrivastava
- Internal Medicine, BronxCare Health System, New York City, USA
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Chang CC, Harrison TS, Bicanic TA, Chayakulkeeree M, Sorrell TC, Warris A, Hagen F, Spec A, Oladele R, Govender NP, Chen SC, Mody CH, Groll AH, Chen YC, Lionakis MS, Alanio A, Castañeda E, Lizarazo J, Vidal JE, Takazono T, Hoenigl M, Alffenaar JW, Gangneux JP, Soman R, Zhu LP, Bonifaz A, Jarvis JN, Day JN, Klimko N, Salmanton-García J, Jouvion G, Meya DB, Lawrence D, Rahn S, Bongomin F, McMullan BJ, Sprute R, Nyazika TK, Beardsley J, Carlesse F, Heath CH, Ayanlowo OO, Mashedi OM, Queiroz-Telles Filho F, Hosseinipour MC, Patel AK, Temfack E, Singh N, Cornely OA, Boulware DR, Lortholary O, Pappas PG, Perfect JR. Global guideline for the diagnosis and management of cryptococcosis: an initiative of the ECMM and ISHAM in cooperation with the ASM. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024:S1473-3099(23)00731-4. [PMID: 38346436 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(23)00731-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is a major worldwide disseminated invasive fungal infection. Cryptococcosis, particularly in its most lethal manifestation of cryptococcal meningitis, accounts for substantial mortality and morbidity. The breadth of the clinical cryptococcosis syndromes, the different patient types at-risk and affected, and the vastly disparate resource settings where clinicians practice pose a complex array of challenges. Expert contributors from diverse regions of the world have collated data, reviewed the evidence, and provided insightful guideline recommendations for health practitioners across the globe. This guideline offers updated practical guidance and implementable recommendations on the clinical approaches, screening, diagnosis, management, and follow-up care of a patient with cryptococcosis and serves as a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence on cryptococcosis. This Review seeks to facilitate optimal clinical decision making on cryptococcosis and addresses the myriad of clinical complications by incorporating data from historical and contemporary clinical trials. This guideline is grounded on a set of core management principles, while acknowledging the practical challenges of antifungal access and resource limitations faced by many clinicians and patients. More than 70 societies internationally have endorsed the content, structure, evidence, recommendation, and pragmatic wisdom of this global cryptococcosis guideline to inform clinicians about the past, present, and future of care for a patient with cryptococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina C Chang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University London, London, UK; Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Tihana A Bicanic
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University London, London, UK; Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Methee Chayakulkeeree
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tania C Sorrell
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Adilia Warris
- Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; Department of Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ferry Hagen
- Faculty of Science, Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Medical Mycology, Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands; Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Andrej Spec
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rita Oladele
- College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University London, London, UK; Medical Research Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK; Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Division of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sharon C Chen
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute for Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Christopher H Mody
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Andreas H Groll
- Infectious Disease Research Program, and Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Münster, Germany; Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation, and Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Yee-Chun Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology & Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Alexandre Alanio
- Institut Pasteur, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques, Groupe de recherche Mycologie Translationnelle, Département de Mycologie, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Laboratoire de parasitologie-mycologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | | | - Jairo Lizarazo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Erasmo Meoz, Faculty of Health, Univesidad de Pamplona, Cúcuta, Colombia
| | - José E Vidal
- Departmento de Neurologia, Instituto de Infectologia Emílio Ribas, São Paulo, Brazil; Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Hospital das Clinicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Takahiro Takazono
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Translational Medical Mycology Research Unit, European Confederation of Medical Mycology Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed, Graz, Austria
| | - Jan-Willem Alffenaar
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia; School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jean-Pierre Gangneux
- Institute for Health, Environment and Work Research-Irset, Inserm UMR_S 1085, University of Rennes, Rennes, France; Laboratory for Parasitology and Mycology, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques LA Asp-C, University Hospital of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Rajeev Soman
- Jupiter Hospital, Pune, India; Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune, India; Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Li-Ping Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai China
| | - Alexandro Bonifaz
- Hospital General de México, Dermatology Service, Mycology section, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Jeremy N Day
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infection, Royal Devon and Exeter University Hospital NHS Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Nikolai Klimko
- Department of Clinical Mycology, Allergy and Immunology, I Mechnikov North Western State Medical University, Staint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Jon Salmanton-García
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Grégory Jouvion
- Histology and Pathology Unit, Ecole nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France; Dynamyc Team, Université Paris Est Créteil and Ecole nationale vétérinaire d'Alfort, Créteil, France
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, College of Heath Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Lawrence
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Sebastian Rahn
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Brendan J McMullan
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rosanne Sprute
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tinashe K Nyazika
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Justin Beardsley
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Fabianne Carlesse
- Pediatric Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Oncology Pediatric Institute-IOP-GRAACC, Federal Univeristy of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Christopher H Heath
- Department of Microbiology, Fiona Stanley Hospital Network, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Perth, WA, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia; UWA Medical School, Internal Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Olusola O Ayanlowo
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Olga M Mashedi
- Centre for Respiratory Diseases Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; UNC Project Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Atul K Patel
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Sterling Hospitals, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Elvis Temfack
- Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Nina Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, German Centre for Infection Research, Cologne, Germany; Clinical Trials Centre Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - David R Boulware
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- Université de Paris Cité, APHP, Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Centre d'Infectiologie Necker-Pasteur, Institut Imagine, Paris, France; Institut Pasteur, CNRS, Unité de Mycologie Moléculaire, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques, UMR 2000, Paris, France
| | - Peter G Pappas
- Mycoses Study Group Central Unit, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - John R Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
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3
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Osborn MR, Spec A, Mazi PB. Management of HIV-Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis. CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12281-023-00458-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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Sigera LSM, Denning DW. Flucytosine and its clinical usage. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2023; 10:20499361231161387. [PMID: 37051439 PMCID: PMC10084540 DOI: 10.1177/20499361231161387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Flucytosine is an antifungal agent first licensed in the 1970's. However, its clinical value has long been overlooked and its availability across the globe is limited. This review highlights the important clinical and pharmacological aspects of flucytosine. This a narrative review of the clinical and in vitro susceptibility literature, with a focus on clinical uses for flucytosine. Detailed literature review including early literature related to primary and acquired resistance to flucytosine. Flucytosine has good antifungal activity against Cryptococcus species, Candida species, and dematiaceous fungi. Its water solubility enables good penetration into the eye, urinary tract, central nervous system (CNS), cardiac vegetations and fungal biofilms. In combination with amphotericin B, it shows early fungicidal activity against Cryptococcus species, and this translates to ~20% improved survival in cryptococcal meningitis. Combination therapy also reduces the mortality of Candida meningitis, and should be used in neonatal candidiasis because of the high frequency of CNS infection. Monotherapy for urinary candidiasis is under-studied, but is usually effective. It is probably valuable in the treatment of Candida endocarditis and endophthalmitis: there are few data. It is not effective for aspergillosis or mucormycosis. Flucytosine monotherapy of urinary candidiasis resulted in 22% developing resistance on therapy and failing therapy, and in 29% of 21 patients with cryptococcosis. Certain regions of the world still do not have access to flucytosine compromising the management of certain severe fungal infections. Flucytosine has an important role in combination therapy for yeast and dematiaceous infections and probably as monotherapy for urinary candidiasis, with a modest risk of resistance emergence. Facilitating access to flucytosine in those regions (especially low-income countries) might alleviate the mortality of invasive fungal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David W. Denning
- Division of Infection, Immunity & Respiratory Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Howard-Jones AR, Sparks R, Pham D, Halliday C, Beardsley J, Chen SCA. Pulmonary Cryptococcosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:1156. [PMID: 36354923 PMCID: PMC9696922 DOI: 10.3390/jof8111156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary cryptococcosis describes an invasive lung mycosis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii complex. It is often a high-consequence disease in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations, and may be misdiagnosed as pulmonary malignancy, leading to a delay in therapy. Epidemiology follows that of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, with C. gattii infection more common in certain geographic regions. Diagnostic tools include histopathology, microscopy and culture, and the detection of cryptococcal polysaccharide antigen or Cryptococcus-derived nucleic acids. All patients with lung cryptococcosis should have a lumbar puncture and cerebral imaging to exclude central nervous system disease. Radiology is key, both as an adjunct to laboratory testing and as the initial means of detection in asymptomatic patients or those with non-specific symptoms. Pulmonary cryptococcomas (single or multiple) may also be associated with disseminated disease and/or cryptococcal meningitis, requiring prolonged treatment regimens. Optimal management for severe disease requires extended induction (amphotericin B and flucytosine) and consolidation therapy (fluconazole) with close clinical monitoring. Susceptibility testing is of value for epidemiology and in regions where relatively high minimum inhibitory concentrations to azoles (particularly fluconazole) have been noted. Novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic agents promise to improve the detection and treatment of cryptococcosis, particularly in low-income settings where the disease burden is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annaleise R. Howard-Jones
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Rebecca Sparks
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - David Pham
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Catriona Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Justin Beardsley
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Sharon C.-A. Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Abstract
Cryptococcosis is an invasive fungal infection of global significance caused by yeasts of the genus Cryptococcus. The prevalence of HIV in certain areas of the world and the expanding population of immunocompromised patients contribute to the ongoing global disease burden. Point-of-care serologic testing has allowed for more rapid diagnosis and implementation of screening programs in resource-limited settings. Management involves therapy aimed at reduction in fungal burden, maintenance of intracranial pressure, and optimization of host immunity. Despite diagnostic and therapeutic advances, cryptococcosis continues to be a disease with unacceptably high incidence and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis C Gushiken
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 West Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Kapil K Saharia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 West Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - John W Baddley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 725 West Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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Lawrence DS, Leeme T, Mosepele M, Harrison TS, Seeley J, Jarvis JN. Equity in clinical trials for HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis: A systematic review of global representation and inclusion of patients and researchers. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009376. [PMID: 34043617 PMCID: PMC8158913 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It is essential that clinical trial participants are representative of the population under investigation. Using HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis (CM) as a case study, we conducted a systematic review of clinical trials to determine how inclusive and representative they were both in terms of the affected population and the involvement of local investigators. Methods We searched Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane, Africa-Wide, CINAHL Plus, and Web of Science. Data were extracted for 5 domains: study location and design, screening, participants, researchers, and funders. Data were summarised and compared over 3 time periods: pre-antiretroviral therapy (ART) (pre-2000), early ART (2000 to 2009), and established ART (post-2010) using chi-squared and chi-squared for trend. Comparisons were made with global disease burden estimates and a composite reference derived from observational studies. Results Thirty-nine trials published between 1990 and 2019 were included. Earlier studies were predominantly conducted in high-income countries (HICs) and recent studies in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Most recent studies occurred in high CM incidence countries, but some highly affected countries have not hosted trials. The sex and ART status of participants matched those of the general CM population. Patients with reduced consciousness and those suffering a CM relapse were underrepresented. Authorship had poor representation of women (29% of all authors), particularly as first and final authors. Compared to trials conducted in HICs, trials conducted in LMICs were more likely to include female authors (32% versus 20% p = 0.014) but less likely to have authors resident in (75% versus 100%, p < 0.001) or nationals (61% versus 93%, p < 0.001) of the trial location. Conclusions There has been a marked shift in CM trials over the course of the HIV epidemic. Trials are primarily performed in locations and populations that reflect the burden of disease, but severe and relapse cases are underrepresented. Most CM trials now take place in LMICs, but the research is primarily funded and led by individuals and institutions from HICs. It is essential that clinical trial participants are representative of the population under investigation. Similarly, research must meaningfully include researchers who are from and/or based in the location where the study is being conducted, both to ensure that the research matches the local need but also to promote equity in research. Using clinical trials in HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis as a case study, we conducted a systematic review to determine how inclusive and representative trials have been across the course of the HIV epidemic. We identified 39 studies. There was a geographical shift with trials moving from the USA to Africa and Asia over time. We found that recent trials were conducted in areas heavily affected by cryptococcal meningitis, but we did identify geographical areas and patient groups that have been underrepresented. We also found inequality within authorship that was skewed towards male researchers from high-income countries. These findings outline areas for our discipline to focus on. We can also use this study as a benchmark from which to monitor our progress over time. This is a broad methodology that could be adopted and adapted by other research groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S. Lawrence
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Tshepo Leeme
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Mosepele Mosepele
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Thomas S. Harrison
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George’s University of London, and St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph N. Jarvis
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Li Y, Lu Y, Nie J, Liu M, Yuan J, Li Y, Li H, Chen Y. Potential Predictors and Survival Analysis of the Relapse of HIV-Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis: A Retrospective Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:626266. [PMID: 34041249 PMCID: PMC8141581 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.626266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: We intend to investigate the relapse of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis (CM), assess potential predictors and conduct survival analysis, with a view to establishing a valid reference for the management of the relapse of CM. Method: This is a retrospective study in Chinese patients with HIV-associated CM and those who experience relapse of CM. Baseline demographic, laboratory and clinical characteristics of patients with HIV-associated CM were collected. Predictors for relapse of HIV-associated CM were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Survival probability in relapse cases was determined by Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Results: During the study period, 87 of 348 (25.0%) HIV patients experienced the relapse of CM. CD4+ T-cell counts, antiretroviral therapy (ART) status and the time from symptom onset to presentation were all statistically associated with the relapse of CM (p = 0.013, 0.018 and 0.042, respectively). The overall survival among 46 HIV CM relapse patients whose survival information were obtained, was 78.3%. The proportion of patients who died after antifungal treatment for CM was greater in those whose interval from symptom onset to presentation ≥4 weeks, compared with those <4 weeks (p = 0.0331). Conclusions: In order to reduce the relapse of CM and increase the survival possibility of these patients, we can promote the importance of ART before CM occurs, emphasize timely consultation when any CM-associated clinical symptoms occurs, and individualized the timing of ART initiation according to indicators which can reflect the severity of CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanqiu Lu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingmin Nie
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Liu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Hygiene Toxicology, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi Guizhou, China
| | - Huan Li
- Division of Respiratory Geriatrics, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaokai Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
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Kitonsa J, Nsubuga R, Mayanja Y, Kiwanuka J, Nikweri Y, Onyango M, Anywaine Z, Ggayi AB, Kibengo FM, Kaleebu P, Day J. Determinants of two-year mortality among HIV positive patients with Cryptococcal meningitis initiating standard antifungal treatment with or without adjunctive dexamethasone in Uganda. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008823. [PMID: 33253210 PMCID: PMC7728283 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, early initiation of antiretroviral therapy for HIV led to a reduction in the estimated mortality from cryptococcal meningitis (CCM) from 624,700 in 2009 to 181,100 in 2014. However, CCM remains one of the leading causes of mortality among HIV infected patients especially in sub-Saharan Africa where 75% of the deaths occur. Most of the studies evaluating mortality have reported short-term mortality (at or before 10 weeks of therapy). We determined mortality and associated factors among patients treated for CCM in the CryptoDex trial (ISRCTN59144167) in Uganda, and the effect of dexamethasone adjunctive therapy on mortality at two years. We conducted a retrospective cohort study between May 2017 and July 2017 to determine the long term survival (up to 2 years post-randomization) of all patients who had been enrolled into the CryptoDex trial in Uganda. The CryptoDex trial recruited between April 2013 and February 2015. We estimated mortality rates and determined factors affecting mortality at two years using Cox regression. The study followed up 211 participants, 127 (60.2%) of whom were male. Sixteen participants (7.58%) were diagnosed with HIV at the same admission when CCM was diagnosed. By two years following randomization 127 (60%) participants had died, a mortality rate of 67 deaths per 100 person-years. Mortality was associated with Glasgow coma score (GCS) below 15 (adjusted Hazard ratio (aHR) 1.77, 95% CI: 1.02-2.44), p = 0.040; weight (aHR 0.97, per 1 Kg increase; 95% CI: 0.94-0.99), p = 0.003; and presence of convulsions (aHR 2.31, 95% CI: 1.32-4.04), p = 0.004, while dexamethasone use and fungal burden had no effect. Long-term mortality in CCM patients remains high even among patients receiving recommended therapy. Strategies to improve long-term survival in CCM patients are urgently needed, especially targeting those with reduced GCS, low weight, and convulsions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Kitonsa
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Rebecca Nsubuga
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Yunia Mayanja
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Yofesi Nikweri
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Martin Onyango
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Zacchaeus Anywaine
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Abu-Baker Ggayi
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Freddie Mukasa Kibengo
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Medical Research Council / Uganda Virus Research Institute & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jeremy Day
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Li M, Liu J, Deng X, Gan Q, Wang Y, Xu X, Jiang Y, Peng F. Triple therapy combined with ventriculoperitoneal shunts can improve neurological function and shorten hospitalization time in non-HIV cryptococcal meningitis patients with increased intracranial pressure. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:844. [PMID: 33198666 PMCID: PMC7667777 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05510-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Raised intracranial pressure (ICP) and insufficient antifungal regimens are the two main factors result to unsatisfactory outcomes in non-HIV cryptococcal meningitis (CM) patients. In this study, we try to discuss that whether triple therapy of amphotericin B (AmB), fluconazole, 5-flucytosine (5-FC) plus ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPS) is superior to AmB, 5-FC, fluconazole plus intermittent lumbar puncture in induction therapy in non-HIV CM patients with increased ICP. Methods We reviewed 66 clinical records from non-HIV CM patients with increased ICP. The demographic and clinical characteristics, BMRC staging, cerebrospinal fluid profiles (CSF), brain magnetic resonance imaging, treatment, and outcomes of these individuals were retrospectively analyzed. All non-HIV CM patients with increased ICP (≥ 25 cmH2O) were divided into two groups, including 27 patients treated with triple antifungal agents and 39 patients treated with the same triple therapy plus VPS. Results Triple therapy plus VPS group had more satisfactory outcomes, more CSF sterilization at 10 weeks follow-up, lower CSF opening pressure, lower BMRC staging scores one week after VPS, less CSF C. neoformans counts and CSF culture positive. Besides, these patients had shorter hospital stay than triple therapy group. Conclusions Triple antifungal agents combined with VPS could effectively reduce ICP, had faster rate of clearance of C. neoformans counts, more improved neurological function, shorten hospitalization time and better outcomes in non-HIV CM patients with increased ICP. Our study indicated that triple therapy plus early VPS may be an optimal treatment for non-HIV CM patients with increased ICP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuhui Deng
- Department of Neurology, Yuebei People' Hospital, Shaoguan, 5120264, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingzhou Gan
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Yijie Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Fuhua Peng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China.
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Vinche ADL, de- la-Cruz-Chacón I, González-Esquinca AR, da Silva JDF, Ferreira G, dos Santos DC, Garces HG, de Oliveira DVM, Marçon C, Cavalcante RDS, Mendes RP. Antifungal activity of liriodenine on agents of systemic mycoses, with emphasis on the genus Paracoccidioides. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2020; 26:e20200023. [PMID: 33193751 PMCID: PMC7595607 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2020-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endemic systemic mycoses remain a health challenge, since these opportunistic diseases are increasingly infecting immunosuppressed patients. The simultaneous use of antifungal compounds and other drugs to treat infectious or non-infectious diseases has led to several interactions and undesirable effects. Thus, new antifungal compounds should be investigated. The present study aimed to evaluate the activity of liriodenine extracted from Annona macroprophyllata on agents of systemic mycoses, with emphasis on the genus Paracoccidioides. METHODS The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicide concentration (MFC) were determined by the microdilution method. The cellular alterations caused by liriodenine on a standard P. brasiliensis (Pb18) strain were evaluated by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS Liriodenine was effective only in 3 of the 8 strains of the genus Paracoccidioides and in the Histoplasma capsulatum strain, in a very low concentration (MIC of 1.95 μg.mL-1); on yeasts of Candida spp. (MIC of 125 to 250 μg.mL-1), including C. krusei (250 μg.mL-1), which has intrinsic resistance to fluconazole; and in Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii (MIC of 62.5 μg.mL-1). However, liriodenine was not effective against Aspergillus fumigatus at the studied concentrations. Liriodenine exhibited fungicidal activity against all standard strains and clinical isolates that showed to be susceptible by in vitro tests. Electron microscopy revealed cytoplasmic alterations and damage to the cell wall of P. brasiliensis (Pb18). CONCLUSION Our results indicate that liriodenine is a promising fungicidal compound that should undergo further investigation with some chemical modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriele Dandara Levorato Vinche
- Department of Tropical Disease and Imaging Diagnosis, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Julhiany de Fátima da Silva
- Department of Tropical Disease and Imaging Diagnosis, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Gisela Ferreira
- Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Hans Garcia Garces
- Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Camila Marçon
- Department of Tropical Disease and Imaging Diagnosis, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Souza Cavalcante
- Department of Tropical Disease and Imaging Diagnosis, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Rinaldo Poncio Mendes
- Department of Tropical Disease and Imaging Diagnosis, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Chorlton SD. Adjunctive bradyzoite-directed therapy for reducing complications of congenital toxoplasmosis. Med Hypotheses 2019; 133:109376. [PMID: 31472369 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.109376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Congenital toxoplasmosis is caused by in utero infection of the fetus with the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Upon infection, the parasite forms life-long cysts in fetal brain and eyes which are resistant to the currently accepted therapy of pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine. These cysts commonly reactivate later in life causing chorioretinitis and visual impairment, and rarely cause neurological complications. I hypothesize that adjunctive, bradyzoite-directed therapies have the potential to alleviate a significant burden of disease by reducing cyst burden in neonatal brain and eyes. Atovaquone is perhaps the most promising drug for further evaluation given its low side-effect profile, established safety, and efficacy in animal models reducing cyst burden. Very limited observational data in humans suggests atovaquone may prevent Toxoplasma-associated chorioretinitis recurrence. Clinical trials are needed to evaluate it and other potential drugs as adjunctive treatment in congenital toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Chorlton
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
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13
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Chesdachai S, Rajasingham R, Nicol MR, Meya DB, Bongomin F, Abassi M, Skipper C, Kwizera R, Rhein J, Boulware DR. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration Distribution of Fluconazole against Cryptococcus Species and the Fluconazole Exposure Prediction Model. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 6:5550889. [PMID: 31420668 PMCID: PMC6767974 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofz369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fluconazole is lifesaving for treatment and prevention of cryptococcosis; however, optimal dosing is unknown. Initial fluconazole doses of 100mg to 2000mg/day have been used. Prevalence of fluconazole non-susceptible Cryptococcus is increasing over time, risking the efficacy of long-established standard dosing. Based on current minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) distribution, we modeled fluconazole concentration and area under the curve (AUC) relative to MIC to propose a rational fluconazole dosing strategy. METHODS First, we conducted a systematic review using MEDLINE database for reports of fluconazole MIC distribution against clinical Cryptococcus isolates. Second, we utilized fluconazole concentrations from 92 Ugandans who received fluconazole 800mg/day coupled with fluconazole's known pharmacokinetics to predict plasma fluconazole concentrations for doses ranging from 100mg to 2000mg via linear regression. Third, the fluconazole AUC above MIC ratio were calculated using Monte Carlo simulation and using the MIC distribution elucidated during the systemic review. RESULTS We summarized 21 studies with 11,049 clinical Cryptococcus isolates. MICs were normally distributed with geometric mean of 3.4 μg/mL, median (MIC50) of 4 μg/mL, and 90th percentile (MIC90) of 16 μg/mL. The median MIC50 trended upwards from 4 μg/mL in 2000-2012 to 8 μg/mL in 2014-2018. Predicted sub-therapeutic fluconazole concentrations (below MIC) would occur in 40% with 100mg, 21% with 200mg, and 9% with 400mg. AUC/MIC ratio >100 would occur in 53% for 400mg, 74% for 800mg, 83% for 1200mg, and 88% for 1600mg. CONCLUSIONS Currently recommended fluconazole doses may be inadequate for cryptococcosis. Further clinical studies are needed for rational fluconazole dose selection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Melanie R Nicol
- College of Pharmacy, Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Caleb Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Richard Kwizera
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Skipper C, Abassi M, Boulware DR. Diagnosis and Management of Central Nervous System Cryptococcal Infections in HIV-Infected Adults. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5030065. [PMID: 31330959 PMCID: PMC6787675 DOI: 10.3390/jof5030065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis persists as a significant source of morbidity and mortality in persons with HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite increasing access to antiretrovirals, persons presenting with advanced HIV disease remains common, and Cryptococcus remains the most frequent etiology of adult meningitis. We performed a literature review and herein present the most up-to-date information on the diagnosis and management of cryptococcosis. Recent advances have dramatically improved the accessibility of timely and affordable diagnostics. The optimal initial antifungal management has been newly updated after the completion of a landmark clinical trial. Beyond antifungals, the control of intracranial pressure and mitigation of toxicities remain hallmarks of effective treatment. Cryptococcal meningitis continues to present challenging complications and continued research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Skipper
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David R Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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15
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Li Z, Liu Y, Chong Y, Li X, Jie Y, Zheng X, Yan Y. Fluconazole plus flucytosine is a good alternative therapy for non-HIV and non-transplant-associated cryptococcal meningitis: A retrospective cohort study. Mycoses 2019; 62:686-691. [PMID: 31120606 PMCID: PMC6852269 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) carries a high risk of mortality with increasing incidences in immune competent hosts. Current treatments are not well tolerated, and evaluation of other treatments is needed. Fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine in treating immune competent hosts have not been characterised. To evaluate the efficacy of fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine in treating non‐HIV‐ and non‐transplant‐associated CM. We performed a retrospective cohort study of the outcomes in immune competent patients with CM treated with fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine or deoxycholate‐amphotericin B and 5‐flucytosine. The primary outcome was treatment response evaluated at the 12th week after initiation of antifungal therapy. A total of 43 and 47 patients received amphotericin B deoxycholate and 5‐flucytosine or fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine, respectively. A total of 38 (88.4%) patients cannot tolerate recommended doses of amphotericin B deoxycholate and 5‐flucytosine (patients needed dose reduction during the treatment). Patients given fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine had higher baseline cryptococcal burdens (median 3632 versus 900 cryptococci/mL, P = 0.008). No significant differences were seen in cryptococcus clearance (74.4% vs 70.2%, P = 0.814), treatment time (39 days, 20‐69 days vs 21 days, 7‐63 days, P = 0.107) and successful response (including complete and partial responses) rates (69.7% vs 72.3%, P = 0.820). Fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine treatment had lower total adverse events (19.1% vs 90.7%, P < 0.001). Fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine had relatively high efficacy with few adverse events in treating CM. Fluconazole and 5‐flucytosine therapy is promising in patients that do not tolerate or are not suited for amphotericin B deoxycholate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanyi Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of General Surgery (Thyroid and Breast), Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yutian Chong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangyong Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yusheng Jie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Yan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cryptococcosis has become a common opportunistic infection among non-HIV immunocompromised hosts. Recent reports have shown the incidence of Cryptococcosis among HIV-negative immunocompromised patients reaches close to half of the overall cases reported in the USA. Management of this infection in this population carries unique challenges. We aim to review relevant and recent research findings to develop treatment recommendations for this type of population. RECENT FINDINGS Most of the recommendations for the management of non-HIV immunocompromised host are extrapolated from HIV studies. Cryptococcosis among non-HIV patients is common but often overlooked. Some clinical factors, when present, may increase the risk of Cryptococcosis among HIV-negative patients and appropriate screening and assessment for the disease is necessary. Treating clinicians should consider a longer duration of induction with Amphotericin B depending on the type of host, immunocompromised state, antifungal response and presence of neurological complications. Baseline fluconazole resistance can reach up to 12%, which is an important consideration for cryptococcal meningitis relapses or suboptimal responses to therapy. SUMMARY Cryptococcus spp. conveys a high disease burden among immunocompromised hosts. Clinicians must consider numerous variables and factors in a dynamic way to offer the best possible treatment and to monitor their response to therapy. Due to the high cost and associated toxicities, we still need new affordable therapies and studies among non-HIV immunocompromised patients.
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Baddley JW, Forrest GN. Cryptococcosis in solid organ transplantation-Guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation Infectious Diseases Community of Practice. Clin Transplant 2019; 33:e13543. [PMID: 30900315 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.13543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
These updated guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Community of Practice of the American Society of Transplantation review the diagnosis, prevention, and management of cryptococcosis in the pre- and post-transplant period. The current update now includes a discussion of cryptococcosis, which is the third most common invasive fungal infection in SOT recipients. Infection often occurs a year after transplantation; however, early infections occur and donor-derived infections have been described within 3 months after transplant. There are two main species that cause infection, Cryptococcus neoformans and C gattii. Clinical onset may be insidious, but headaches, fevers, and mental status changes should warrant diagnostic testing. The lateral flow cryptococcal antigen assay is now the preferred test from serum and cerebrospinal fluid due to its rapidity, accuracy, and cost. A lumbar puncture with measurement of opening pressure is recommended for patients with suspected or proven cryptococcosis. Lipid amphotericin B plus 5-flucytosine is used as initial treatment of meningitis, disseminated infection, and moderate-to-severe pulmonary infection, followed by fluconazole as consolidation therapy. Fluconazole is effective for mild-to-moderate pulmonary infection. Immunosuppression reduction as part of management may lead to immune reconstitution syndrome that may resemble active disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Baddley
- University of Alabama at Birmingham and Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
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18
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HIV-associated opportunistic CNS infections: pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment. Nat Rev Neurol 2018; 12:662-674. [PMID: 27786246 DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2016.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Nearly 30 years after the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART), CNS opportunistic infections remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality in HIV-positive individuals. Unknown HIV-positive disease status, antiretroviral drug resistance, poor drug compliance, and recreational drug abuse are factors that continue to influence the morbidity and mortality of infections. The clinical and radiographic pattern of CNS opportunistic infections is unique in the setting of HIV infection: opportunistic infections in HIV-positive patients often have characteristic clinical and radiological presentations that can differ from the presentation of opportunistic infections in immunocompetent patients and are often sufficient to establish the diagnosis. ART in the setting of these opportunistic infections can lead to a paradoxical worsening caused by an immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). In this Review, we discuss several of the most common CNS opportunistic infections: cerebral toxoplasmosis, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), tuberculous meningitis, cryptococcal meningitis and cytomegalovirus infection, with an emphasis on clinical pearls, pathological findings, MRI findings and treatment. Moreover, we discuss the risk factors, pathophysiology and management of IRIS. We also summarize the challenges that remain in management of CNS opportunistic infections, which includes the lack of phase II and III clinical trials, absence of antimicrobials for infections such as PML, and controversy regarding the use of corticosteroids for treatment of IRIS.
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Tenforde MW, Shapiro AE, Rouse B, Jarvis JN, Li T, Eshun‐Wilson I, Ford N. Treatment for HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 7:CD005647. [PMID: 30045416 PMCID: PMC6513250 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd005647.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcal meningitis is a severe fungal infection that occurs primarily in the setting of advanced immunodeficiency and remains a major cause of HIV-related deaths worldwide. The best induction therapy to reduce mortality from HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis is unclear, particularly in resource-limited settings where management of drug-related toxicities associated with more potent antifungal drugs is a challenge. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the best induction therapy to reduce mortality from HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis; to compare side effect profiles of different therapies. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase (Ovid), LILACS (BIREME), African Index Medicus, and Index Medicus for the South-East Asia Region (IMSEAR) from 1 January 1980 to 9 July 2018. We also searched the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP), ClinicalTrials.gov, and the ISRCTN registry; and abstracts of select conferences published between 1 July 2014 and 9 July 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials that compared antifungal induction therapies used for the first episode of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis. Comparisons could include different individual or combination therapies, or the same antifungal therapies with differing durations of induction (less than two weeks or two or more weeks, the latter being the current standard of care). We included data regardless of age, geographical region, or drug dosage. We specified no language restriction. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened titles and abstracts identified by the search strategy. We obtained the full texts of potentially eligible studies to assess eligibility and extracted data using standardized forms. The main outcomes included mortality at 2 weeks, 10 weeks, and 6 months; mean rate of cerebrospinal fluid fungal clearance in the first two weeks of treatment; and Division of AIDS (DAIDS) grade three or four laboratory events. Using random-effects models we determined pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences (MD) and 95% CI for continuous outcomes. For the direct comparison of 10-week mortality, we assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. We performed a network meta-analysis using multivariate meta-regression. We modelled treatment differences (RR and 95% CI) and determined treatment rankings for two-week and 10-week mortality outcomes using surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA). We assessed transitivity by comparing distribution of effect modifiers between studies, local inconsistency through a node-splitting approach, and global inconsistency using design-by-treatment interaction modelling. For the network meta-analysis, we applied a modified GRADE approach for assessing the certainty of the evidence for 10-week mortality. MAIN RESULTS We included 13 eligible studies that enrolled 2426 participants and compared 21 interventions. All studies were carried out in adults, and all but two studies were conducted in resource-limited settings, including 11 of 12 studies with 10-week mortality data.In the direct pairwise comparisons evaluating 10-week mortality, one study from four sub-Saharan African countries contributed data to several key comparisons. At 10 weeks these data showed that those on the regimen of one-week amphotericin B deoxycholate (AmBd) and flucytosine (5FC) followed by fluconazole (FLU) on days 8 to 14 had lower mortality when compared to (i) two weeks of AmBd and 5FC (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.93; 228 participants, 1 study), (ii) two weeks of AmBd and FLU (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.86; 227 participants, 1 study), (iii) one week of AmBd with two weeks of FLU (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.72; 224 participants, 1 study), and (iv) two weeks of 5FC and FLU (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.99; 338 participants, 1 study). The evidence for each of these comparisons was of moderate certainty. For other outcomes, this shortened one-week AmBd and 5FC regimen had similar fungal clearance (MD 0.05 log10 CFU/mL/day, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.12; 186 participants, 1 study) as well as lower risk of grade three or four anaemia (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.60; 228 participants, 1 study) compared to the two-week regimen of AmBd and 5FC.For 10-week mortality, the comparison of two weeks of 5FC and FLU with two weeks of AmBd and 5FC (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.23; 340 participants, 1 study) or two weeks of AmBd and FLU (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.13; 339 participants, 1 study) did not show a difference in mortality, with moderate-certainty evidence for both comparisons.When two weeks of combination AmBd and 5FC was compared with AmBd alone, pooled data showed lower mortality at 10 weeks (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.95; 231 participants, 2 studies, moderate-certainty evidence).When two weeks of AmBd and FLU was compared to AmBd alone, there was no difference in 10-week mortality in pooled data (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.62; 371 participants, 3 studies, low-certainty evidence).One week of AmBd and 5FC followed by FLU on days 8 to 14 was the best induction therapy regimen after comparison with 11 other regimens for 10-week mortality in the network meta-analysis, with an overall SUCRA ranking of 88%. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In resource-limited settings, one-week AmBd- and 5FC-based therapy is probably superior to other regimens for treatment of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis. An all-oral regimen of two weeks 5FC and FLU may be an alternative in settings where AmBd is unavailable or intravenous therapy cannot be safely administered. We found no mortality benefit of combination two weeks AmBd and FLU compared to AmBd alone. Given the absence of data from studies in children, and limited data from high-income countries, our findings provide limited guidance for treatment in these patients and settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Tenforde
- University of Washington School of MedicineDivision of Allergy and Infectious Diseases1959 Pacific Street NESeattleUSAWA 98195
- University of Washington School of Public HealthDepartment of EpidemiologySeattleUSA
| | - Adrienne E Shapiro
- University of Washington School of MedicineDivision of Allergy and Infectious Diseases1959 Pacific Street NESeattleUSAWA 98195
| | - Benjamin Rouse
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthDepartment of Epidemiology615 N. Wolfe StreetBaltimoreMarylandUSA21205
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineFaculty of Infectious and Tropical DiseasesKeppel StreetLondonUKWC1E 7HT
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute PartnershipGaboroneBotswana
| | - Tianjing Li
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthDepartment of Epidemiology615 N. Wolfe StreetBaltimoreMarylandUSA21205
| | - Ingrid Eshun‐Wilson
- Stellenbosch UniversityCentre for Evidence Based Health Care, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health SciencesFrancie van Zyl Drive, Tygerberg, 7505, ParowCape TownWestern CapeSouth Africa7505
| | - Nathan Ford
- World Health OrganizationDepartment of HIV & Global Hepatitis ProgrammeGenevaSwitzerland
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Stott KE, Hope W. Pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics of antifungal agents in the central nervous system. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2018; 14:803-815. [DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2018.1492551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katharine E Stott
- Antimicrobial Pharmacodynamics and Therapeutics Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - William Hope
- Antimicrobial Pharmacodynamics and Therapeutics Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Xu L, Liu J, Zhang Q, Li M, Liao J, Kuang W, Zhu C, Yi H, Peng F. Triple therapy versus amphotericin B plus flucytosine for the treatment of non-HIV- and non-transplant-associated cryptococcal meningitis: retrospective cohort study. Neurol Res 2018; 40:398-404. [PMID: 29560802 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2018.1447319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Amphotericin B plus flucytosine is the most widely used induction therapy regimen for non-HIV-infected and non-transplant patients; however, the therapeutic outcomes are unsatisfactory, especially when two antifungal drugs are at sub-therapeutic doses. Methods In this study of induction therapy, all non-HIV-infected, non-transplant patients with a first episode of cryptococcal meningitis were divided into two groups. In group I, the patients received amphotericin B plus 5-flucytosine. In group II, in addition to amphotericin B and 5-flucytosine, the patients also received fluconazole. Results In this study, 32 patients were included in group I, and the other 30 were in group II. Although patients from group II had higher fungal burdens with approximately 2100 Cryptococci/ml CSF before treatment, they had a significantly higher frequency of satisfactory outcomes (80% vs. 50%, respectively, P = 0.014). Less time for more patients in group II to have CSF sterilization (P = 0.021; P = 0.046). And more patients in group II had improved neurological function circumstances evaluated by comparing the BMRC staging between patients at discharge and follow-up 10 weeks (P = 0.032). No significant difference was observed in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups. Conclusion Triple therapy a superior alternative induction regimen for patients with non-HIV- and non-transplant-associated cryptococcal meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- a Department of Neurology , The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , PR China
| | - Jia Liu
- a Department of Neurology , The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , PR China
| | - Qilong Zhang
- b Department of Neurology , Jiangxi Chest Hospital , Jiangxi , PR China
| | - Min Li
- a Department of Neurology , The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , PR China
| | - Jingchi Liao
- a Department of Neurology , The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , PR China
| | - Weifeng Kuang
- b Department of Neurology , Jiangxi Chest Hospital , Jiangxi , PR China
| | - Cansheng Zhu
- a Department of Neurology , The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , PR China
| | - Huan Yi
- a Department of Neurology , The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , PR China
| | - Fuhua Peng
- a Department of Neurology , The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , PR China
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Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality amongst patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The prevalence in the developed world has decreased as HIV is being diagnosed earlier, but is still significant, and the prevalence in resource-limited settings is exceedingly high. The presenting symptoms usually include a headache, fever, and, less often, cranial nerve abnormalities. Space-occupying lesions do occur, but are rare. Once diagnosed, patients should be treated with a combination of amphotericin and flucytosine, with step-down therapy to fluconazole for a minimum of a year, or until the CD4 count is above 100 cells/μL, whichever is longer. In the acute phase of treatment increased opening pressure is common, which should be managed aggressively with frequent lumbar punctures, or through neurosurgical interventions (lumbar drains, ventriculoperitoneal shunts) if those fail. Antiretrovirals should be delayed at least 2 weeks, but maybe as many as 10 weeks, after initiation of antifungal therapy in order to prevent clinical or subclinical immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), which may lead to increased mortality. However, if IRIS does develop, there is no role for antiretroviral interruption, and the condition should be managed supportively by use of anti-inflammatories and aggressive management of elevated opening pressure, if present. Steroids should be administered for specific indications only (IRIS or cryptococcoma with cerebral edema and risk of herniation) as routine use of steroids increases mortality in cryptococcal meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Spec
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - William G Powderly
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.
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Lofgren S, Abassi M, Rhein J, Boulware DR. Recent advances in AIDS-related cryptococcal meningitis treatment with an emphasis on resource limited settings. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2017; 15:331-340. [PMID: 28111998 PMCID: PMC5602588 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2017.1285697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent advances in the treatment and prevention of cryptococcal meningitis have the potential to decrease AIDS-related deaths. Areas covered: Targeted screening for asymptomatic cryptococcal antigenemia in persons with AIDS is a cost effective method for reducing early mortality in patients on antiretroviral therapy. For persons with symptomatic cryptococcal meningitis, optimal initial management with amphotericin and flucytosine improves survival compared to alternative therapies; however, amphotsericin is difficult to administer and flucytosine has not been available in middle or low income countries, where cryptococcal meningitis is most prevalent. Expert commentary: Improved care for cryptococcal meningitis patients in resource-limited settings is possible, and new treatment possibilities are emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Lofgren
- a Division of Infectious Diseases & International Medicine, Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- b Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University , Kampala , Uganda
| | - Mahsa Abassi
- a Division of Infectious Diseases & International Medicine, Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- b Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University , Kampala , Uganda
| | - Joshua Rhein
- a Division of Infectious Diseases & International Medicine, Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- b Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University , Kampala , Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- a Division of Infectious Diseases & International Medicine, Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis , MN , USA
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Kosmidis C, Denning DW. Opportunistic and Systemic Fungi. Infect Dis (Lond) 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-7020-6285-8.00189-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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26
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Srichatrapimuk S, Sungkanuparph S. Integrated therapy for HIV and cryptococcosis. AIDS Res Ther 2016; 13:42. [PMID: 27906037 PMCID: PMC5127046 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-016-0126-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis has been one of the most common opportunistic infections and causes of mortality among HIV-infected patients, especially in resource-limited countries. Cryptococcal meningitis is the most common form of cryptococcosis. Laboratory diagnosis of cryptococcosis includes direct microscopic examination, isolation of Cryptococcus from a clinical specimen, and detection of cryptococcal antigen. Without appropriate treatment, cryptococcosis is fatal. Early diagnosis and treatment is the key to treatment success. Treatment of cryptococcosis consists of three main aspects: antifungal therapy, intracranial pressure management for cryptococcal meningitis, and restoration of immune function with antiretroviral therapy (ART). Optimal integration of these three aspects is crucial to achieving successful treatment and reducing the mortality. Antifungal therapy consists of three phases: induction, consolidation, and maintenance. A combination of two drugs, i.e. amphotericin B plus flucytosine or fluconazole, is preferred in the induction phase. Fluconazole monotherapy is recommended during consolidation and maintenance phases. In cryptococcal meningitis, intracranial pressure rises along with CSF fungal burden and is associated with morbidity and mortality. Aggressive control of intracranial pressure should be done. Management options include therapeutic lumbar puncture, lumbar drain insertion, ventriculostomy, or ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Medical treatment such as corticosteroids, mannitol, and acetazolamide are ineffective and should not be used. ART has proven to have a great impact on survival rates among HIV-infected patients with cryptococcosis. The time to start ART in HIV-infected patients with cryptococcosis has to be deferred until 5 weeks after the start of antifungal therapy. In general, any effective ART regimen is acceptable. Potential drug interactions between antiretroviral agents and amphotericin B, flucytosine, and fluconazole are minimal. Of most potential clinical relevance is the concomitant use of fluconazole and nevirapine. Concomitant use of these two drugs should be cautious, and patients should be monitored closely for nevirapine-associated adverse events, including hepatotoxicity. Overlapping toxicities of antifungal and antiretroviral drugs and immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome are not uncommon. Early recognition and appropriate management of these consequences can reinforce the successful integrated therapy in HIV-infected patients with cryptococcosis.
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Abstract
Cryptococcosis is an invasive mycosis caused by pathogenic encapsulated yeasts in the genus Cryptococcus. Cryptococcus gained prominence as a pathogen capable of widespread disease outbreaks in vulnerable populations. We have gained insight into the pathobiology of Cryptococcus, including the yeast' s capacity to adapt to environmental pressures, exploit new geographic environments, and cause disease in both immunocompromised and apparently immunocompetent hosts. Inexpensive, point-of-care testing makes diagnosis more feasible than ever. The associated worldwide burden and mortality remains unacceptably high. Novel screening strategies and preemptive therapy offer promise at making a sustained and much needed impact on this sugar-coated opportunistic mycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen K Maziarz
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC Box 102359, 315 Trent Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - John R Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC Box 102359, 315 Trent Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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28
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Abstract
Fungal pathogens can lead to many of the complications seen in advanced HIV disease and are commonly identified in HIV-infected populations with decreased immune function. Common fungal organisms affecting individuals with AIDS include Cryptococcus neoformans, various Candida species, and Histoplasma capsulatum. While infection with these organisms can be fatal, appropriate identification and management of the condition can result in reduced mortality and the opportunity for effectivemanagement of HIV disease with highly active antiretroviral therapy. This article describes the clinical presentation and treatment of 3 fungal infections common in the immunocompromised individual with AIDS. Current antifungal therapy for themanagement of these infections is discussed. In addition, the role of newer antifungal agents in the setting of these conditions is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody L. Duffalo
- Penn Community Infectious Diseases, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, 51 North 39th Street, Suite W241, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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Agudelo CA, Muñoz C, Ramírez A, Tobón AM, de Bedout Bact C, Cano LE, Restrepo A. Response to therapy in patients with cryptococcosis and AIDS: Association with in vitro susceptibility to fluconazole. Rev Iberoam Micol 2015; 32:214-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.riam.2014.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Revised: 06/12/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Abassi M, Boulware DR, Rhein J. Cryptococcal Meningitis: Diagnosis and Management Update. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2015; 2:90-99. [PMID: 26279970 PMCID: PMC4535722 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-015-0046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in the diagnosis and management of cryptococcal meningitis are promising and have been improving long-term survival. Point of care testing has made diagnosing cryptococcal meningitis rapid, practical, and affordable. Targeted screening and treatment programs for cryptococcal antigenemia are a cost effective method for reducing early mortality on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Optimal initial management with amphotericin and flucytosine improves survival against alternative therapies, although amphotericin is difficult to administer and flucytosine is not available in middle or low income countries, where cryptococcal meningitis is most prevalent. Controlling increased intracranial pressure with serial therapeutic lumbar punctures has a proven survival benefit. Delaying ART initiation for 4 weeks after the diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis is associated with improved survival. Fortunately, new approaches have been leading the way toward improving care for cryptococcal meningitis patients. New trials utilizing different combinations of antifungal therapy are reviewed, and we summarize the efficacy of different regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Abassi
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Joshua Rhein
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Cryptococcosis. DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF FUNGAL INFECTIONS 2015. [PMCID: PMC7122569 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-13090-3_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is an infectious disease caused by the encapsulated fungi Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. Once a relatively uncommon cause of human disease, cryptococcal infection can develop in apparently immunocompetent hosts and has emerged as an important opportunistic infection in humans over the past several decades as immunocompromised populations expand in the setting of HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation, malignancies, and treatment for other conditions. Clinical manifestations are myriad but pulmonary and central nervous system (CNS) infections are the most common. Improvements in diagnostic testing and standardized approaches to antifungal therapy, when available, have made considerable impact in the management of this infection. While the widespread use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has improved the outcome of cryptococcosis in many HIV-infected patients, cryptococcosis remains an entity of considerable morbidity and mortality in many parts of the world, and restoration of host immunity can present management challenges that require individualized management. As immunocompromised populations continue to expand, it is likely that cryptococcosis will remain an important opportunistic fungal infection of humans requiring ongoing investigation.
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Abstract
For over the last three decades, extensive testing of antifungal compounds in clinical trials has been essential to the development of treatment guidelines for the most common invasive fungal infections, including cryptococcosis, candidiasis, aspergillosis, and the endemic fungi. These guidelines have greatly helped guide clinicians in the management of these complicated diseases. The data on which most of these guidelines are based are among the most widely recognized and cited clinical trials comparing antimicrobial agents. Unfortunately, there are many unanswered questions with respect to the diagnosis and treatment of these emerging disorders. Regarding treatment, there is a need for more clinically effective and less toxic agents. The current armamentarium of antifungal agents represents important progress over gold standard agents such as amphotericin B, but there is much progress to be made. With respect to diagnostics, mycology has generally lagged behind other disciplines in microbiology, as there are very few rapid, sensitive, specific, and point-of-care diagnostics. The ability to implement therapies for at-risk patients based on positive early diagnostic signals would greatly enhance the ability to intervene with appropriate antifungal therapy in a more targeted and specific manner. This article will review some of the major advances, as well as significant challenges that remain in the management of invasive mycoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter G Pappas
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-0006
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35
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Stone NRH, Bicanic T. Therapy of AIDS-Related Cryptococcal Meningitis. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40506-014-0018-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis causes morbidity and mortality worldwide. The burden of disease is greatest in middle- and low-income countries with a high incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Patients taking immunosuppressive drugs and some immunocompetent hosts are also at risk. Treatment of cryptococcal meningitis consists of three phases: induction, consolidation, and maintenance. Effective induction therapy requires potent fungicidal drugs (amphotericin B and flucytosine), which are often unavailable in low-resource, high-endemicity settings. As a consequence, mortality is unacceptably high. Wider access to effective treatment is urgently required to improve outcomes. For human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients, judicious management of asymptomatic cryptococcal antigenemia and appropriately timed introduction of antiretroviral therapy are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek J Sloan
- Tropical and infectious Disease Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Victoria Parris
- Tropical and infectious Disease Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK
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Willemot P, Klein MB. Prevention of HIV-associated opportunistic infections and diseases in the age of highly active antiretroviral therapy. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2014; 2:521-32. [PMID: 15482218 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2.4.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Since the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), the rates of opportunistic infections have decreased markedly as has overall morbidity and mortality from HIV infection in developed countries. However, opportunistic infections remain the most important cause of death in HIV-infected people due to both late presentation of HIV infections and failure of HAART to adequately restore cell-mediated immunity in all individuals. While prophylaxis may be discontinued in patients who have responded to HAART with sustained increases of their CD4 counts above risk thresholds, for those patients who fail HAART, those who are unable to tolerate it, or whose treatments are interrupted, opportunistic-infection prophylaxis remains essential. Some HIV-associated diseases, such as anogenital human papilloma virus-induced neoplasia and hepatitis C infection, have not decreased in frequency with the advent of HAART. For these conditions, effective screening and treatment programs will be necessary to prevent ongoing morbidity. This review will provide an update on HIV-associated opportunistic infections and their prevention in the age of HAART, as well as discuss novel presentations of opportunistic illnesses, such as immune restoration syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Willemot
- Royal Victoria Hospital, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Quebec H2X 2P4, Canada.
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Loyse A, Dromer F, Day J, Lortholary O, Harrison TS. Flucytosine and cryptococcosis: time to urgently address the worldwide accessibility of a 50-year-old antifungal. J Antimicrob Chemother 2013; 68:2435-44. [PMID: 23788479 PMCID: PMC3797641 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkt221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Current, widely accepted guidelines for the management of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) recommend amphotericin B combined with flucytosine (5-FC) for ≥2 weeks as the initial induction treatment of choice. However, access to flucytosine in Africa and Asia, where disease burden is greatest, is inadequate at present. While research into identifying effective and well-tolerated antifungal combinations that do not contain flucytosine continues, an ever-increasing body of evidence from in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies points to the benefits of flucytosine in the treatment of CM in both intravenous combinations with amphotericin B and oral combinations with high-dose fluconazole. This article provides an up-to-date review of this evidence, and the current issues and challenges regarding increasing access to this key component of combination antifungal therapy for cryptococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Loyse
- Cryptococcal Meningitis Group, Research Centre for Infection and Immunity, Division of Clinical Sciences, St. George's Hospital Medical School, London, UK
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Lestner J, Hope WW. Itraconazole: an update on pharmacology and clinical use for treatment of invasive and allergic fungal infections. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2013; 9:911-26. [PMID: 23641752 DOI: 10.1517/17425255.2013.794785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fungal infections are a major source of global morbidity and mortality. Itraconazole is a triazole antifungal agent that is widely used for the prevention and treatment of fungal infection. While newer antifungal agents are now available, itraconazole is an orally bioavailable agent with broad-spectrum antifungal activity. Itraconazole remains a useful drug for the management of allergic and invasive mycoses worldwide. AREAS COVERED This article provides a summary of the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and clinical uses of itraconazole. Additionally, the authors summarise the safety and recently described toxicodynamics and discuss the value of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) with itraconazole. The following search criteria were constructed in order to identify relevant literature using PubMed and Ovid-MEDLINE: itraconazole, triazole, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, toxicodynamics and TDM. Relevant abstracts and articles identified from reviewing secondary citations were additionally retrieved and included if relevant. EXPERT OPINION Itraconazole remains an important agent in the prevention and treatment of fungal infection. Itraconazole has a broad-spectrum of activity and is available in both an intravenous and oral form making long-term use in chronic mycoses practical. Itraconazole is widely used for the treatment of endemic fungal infections. Pharmacokinetic variability and clinically important drug interactions make TDM of itraconazole an important consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Lestner
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Day JN, Chau TTH, Wolbers M, Mai PP, Dung NT, Mai NH, Phu NH, Nghia HD, Phong ND, Thai CQ, Thai LH, Chuong LV, Sinh DX, Duong VA, Hoang TN, Diep PT, Campbell JI, Sieu TPM, Baker SG, Chau NVV, Hien TT, Lalloo DG, Farrar JJ. Combination antifungal therapy for cryptococcal meningitis. N Engl J Med 2013; 368:1291-1302. [PMID: 23550668 PMCID: PMC3978204 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa1110404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 324] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Combination antifungal therapy (amphotericin B deoxycholate and flucytosine) is the recommended treatment for cryptococcal meningitis but has not been shown to reduce mortality, as compared with amphotericin B alone. We performed a randomized, controlled trial to determine whether combining flucytosine or high-dose fluconazole with high-dose amphotericin B improved survival at 14 and 70 days. METHODS We conducted a randomized, three-group, open-label trial of induction therapy for cryptococcal meningitis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection. All patients received amphotericin B at a dose of 1 mg per kilogram of body weight per day; patients in group 1 were treated for 4 weeks, and those in groups 2 and 3 for 2 weeks. Patients in group 2 concurrently received flucytosine at a dose of 100 mg per kilogram per day for 2 weeks, and those in group 3 concurrently received fluconazole at a dose of 400 mg twice daily for 2 weeks. RESULTS A total of 299 patients were enrolled. Fewer deaths occurred by days 14 and 70 among patients receiving amphotericin B and flucytosine than among those receiving amphotericin B alone (15 vs. 25 deaths by day 14; hazard ratio, 0.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.30 to 1.08; unadjusted P=0.08; and 30 vs. 44 deaths by day 70; hazard ratio, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.39 to 0.97; unadjusted P=0.04). Combination therapy with fluconazole had no significant effect on survival, as compared with monotherapy (hazard ratio for death by 14 days, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.44 to 1.41; P=0.42; hazard ratio for death by 70 days, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.45 to 1.11; P=0.13). Amphotericin B plus flucytosine was associated with significantly increased rates of yeast clearance from cerebrospinal fluid (-0.42 log10 colony-forming units [CFU] per milliliter per day vs. -0.31 and -0.32 log10 CFU per milliliter per day in groups 1 and 3, respectively; P<0.001 for both comparisons). Rates of adverse events were similar in all groups, although neutropenia was more frequent in patients receiving a combination therapy. CONCLUSIONS Amphotericin B plus flucytosine, as compared with amphotericin B alone, is associated with improved survival among patients with cryptococcal meningitis. A survival benefit of amphotericin B plus fluconazole was not found. (Funded by the Wellcome Trust and the British Infection Society; Controlled-Trials.com number, ISRCTN95123928.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy N Day
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Tran T H Chau
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Marcel Wolbers
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Pham P Mai
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Nguyen T Dung
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Nguyen H Mai
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Nguyen H Phu
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Ho D Nghia
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Nguyen D Phong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Cao Q Thai
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Le H Thai
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Ly V Chuong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Dinh X Sinh
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Van A Duong
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Thu N Hoang
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Pham T Diep
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - James I Campbell
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Tran P M Sieu
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Stephen G Baker
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Nguyen V V Chau
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Tran T Hien
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - David G Lalloo
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy J Farrar
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme Vietnam (J.N.D., T.T.H.C., M.W., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., C.Q.T., L.H.T., V.A.D., T.N.H., P.T.D., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (T.T.H.C., P.P.M., N.T.D., N.H.M., N.H.P., H.D.N., N.D.P., L.V.C., D.X.S., T.P.M.S., N.V.V.C.) - both in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; and the Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford (J.N.D., M.W., J.I.C., S.G.B., T.T.H., J.J.F.), and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool (D.G.L.) - both in the United Kingdom
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Baddley JW, Forrest GN. Cryptococcosis in solid organ transplantation. Am J Transplant 2013; 13 Suppl 4:242-9. [PMID: 23465017 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.12116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J W Baddley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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Njei B, Kongnyuy EJ, Kumar S, Okwen MP, Sankar MJ, Mbuagbaw L. Optimal timing for antiretroviral therapy initiation in patients with HIV infection and concurrent cryptococcal meningitis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013:CD009012. [PMID: 23450595 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009012.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in most patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is based on the CD4-positive-t-lymphocyte count. However, the point during the course of HIV infection at which ART should be initiated in patients with concurrent cryptococcal meningitis remains unclear. The aim of this systematic review was to summarise the evidence on the optimal timing of ART initiation in patients with cryptococcal meningitis for use in clinical practice and guideline development. OBJECTIVES To compare the clinical and immunologic outcomes for early initiation ART (less than four weeks after starting antifungal treatment) versus later initiation of HAART (four weeks or more after starting antifungal treatment) in HIV-positive patients with concurrent cryptococcal meningitis. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following databases from January 1980 to February 2011: PubMed, EMBASE, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, AEGIS database for conference abstracts, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. A total of 35 full text articles were identified and supplemented by a bibliographic search. We contacted researchers and relevant organizations and checked reference lists of all included studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials that compared the effect of ART (consisting of three drug combinations) initiated early or delayed in HIV patients with cryptococcal meningitis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed study eligibility, extracted data, and graded methodological quality. Data extraction and methodological quality were checked by a third author who resolved differences when these arose. Where clinically meaningful, we performed a meta-analysis of dichotomous outcomes using the relative risk (RR) and report the 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). MAIN RESULTS Two eligible randomized controlled trials were included (N = 89). In our pooled analysis, we combined the clinical data for both trials comparing early initiation ART versus delayed initiation of ART. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality (RR=1.40, 95% CI [0.42, 4.68]) in the group with early initiation of ART compared to the group with delayed initiation of ART. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This systematic review shows that there is insufficient evidence in support of either early or late initiation of ART. For the moment, because of the high risk of immune reconstitution syndrome in patients with cryptococcal meningitis, we recommend that ART initiation should be delayed until there is evidence of a sustained clinical response to antifungal therapy. However, large studies with appropriate comparison groups, and adequate follow-up are warranted to provide the evidence base for effective decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basile Njei
- Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.
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New Insights into HIV/AIDS-Associated Cryptococcosis. ISRN AIDS 2013; 2013:471363. [PMID: 24052889 PMCID: PMC3767198 DOI: 10.1155/2013/471363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening opportunistic fungal infection in both HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients. According to the most recent taxonomy, the responsible fungus is classified into a complex that contains two species (Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii), with eight major molecular types. HIV infection is recognized worldwide as the main underlying disease responsible for the development of cryptococcal meningitis (accounting for 80-90% of cases). In several areas of sub-Saharan Africa with the highest HIV prevalence despite the recent expansion of antiretroviral (ARV) therapy programme, cryptococcal meningitis is the leading cause of community-acquired meningitis with a high mortality burden. Although cryptococcal meningitis should be considered a neglected disease, a large body of knowledge has been developed by several studies performed in recent years. This paper will focus especially on new clinical aspects such as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, advances on management, and strategies for the prevention of clinical disease.
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Trpković A, Pekmezović M, Barać A, Crnčević Radović L, Arsić Arsenijević V. In vitro antifungal activities of amphotericin B, 5-fluorocytosine, fluconazole and itraconazole against Cryptococcus neoformans isolated from cerebrospinal fluid and blood from patients in Serbia. J Mycol Med 2012; 22:243-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Revised: 06/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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New Insights in the Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Cryptococcal Meningitis. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2012; 9:267-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s11904-012-0127-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Abstract
Cryptococcosis is a significant opportunistic mycoses in organ transplant recipients. Topical developments in the field in the past few years have highlighted important issues and at the same time raised new questions regarding the management of this yeast. These include, for example, management of pretransplant cryptococcosis during transplant candidacy and timing of transplant in these instances; potential for donor transmission of cryptococcosis in light of recent fatal transmissions; and prevention and treatment of Cryptococcus-associated immune reconstitution syndrome. Discussed herein are challenges posed by these issues and evidence-based data to optimize the management of posttransplant cryptococcosis.
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Bennett J. Companion Drugs for Amphotericin B in Cryptococcal Meningitis: Flucytosine, Fluconazole, or…Nothing? Clin Infect Dis 2012; 54:129-30. [DOI: 10.1093/cid/cir758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- John Bennett
- Clinical Mycology Section, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
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Clinical Guidelines for the Treatment and Prevention of Opportunistic Infections in HIV-infected Koreans. Infect Chemother 2012. [DOI: 10.3947/ic.2012.44.3.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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Identification of a Cryptococcus neoformans cytochrome P450 lanosterol 14α-demethylase (Erg11) residue critical for differential susceptibility between fluconazole/voriconazole and itraconazole/posaconazole. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2011; 56:1162-9. [PMID: 22155829 DOI: 10.1128/aac.05502-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans strains resistant to azoles due to mutations causing alterations in the ERG11 gene, encoding lanosterol 14α-demethylase, have rarely been reported. In this study, we have characterized a C. neoformans serotype A strain that is resistant to high concentrations of fluconazole (FLC). This strain, which was isolated from an FLC-treated patient, contained five missense mutations in the ERG11 gene compared to the sequence of reference strain H99. Molecular manipulations of the ERG11 gene coupled with susceptibility to triazole revealed that a single missense mutation resulting in the replacement of tyrosine by phenylalanine at amino acid 145 was sufficient to cause the high FLC resistance of the strain. Importantly, this newly identified point mutation in the ERG11 gene of C. neoformans afforded resistance to voriconazole (VRC) but increased susceptibility to itraconazole (ITC) and posaconazole (PSC), which are structurally similar to each other but distinct from FLC/VRC. The in vitro susceptibility/resistance of the strains with or without the missense mutation was reflected in the therapeutic efficacy of FLC versus ITC in the animals infected with the strains. This study shows the importance of the Y145F alteration of Erg11 in C. neoformans for manifestation of differential susceptibility toward different triazoles. It underscores the necessity of in vitro susceptibility testing for each FLC-resistant C. neoformans clinical isolate against different groups of azoles in order to assist patient management.
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Qishui O, Ling J, Ni L, Bin Y, Wen L. Comparison of real-time florescence quantitative PCR measurements of VAD1 mRNA with three conventional methods in diagnosis and follow-up treatment of Cryptococcus neoformans infection. Mycoses 2011; 55:326-32. [PMID: 21895785 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.2011.02100.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study was to develop a real-time florescence quantitative PCR (RT-FQ-PCR) assay to measure virulence-associated DEAD-box RNA helicase (VAD1) mRNA from Cryptococcus neoformans and evaluate its potential use in diagnosis and follow-up treatment of C. neoformans meningitis (CNM). Cryptococcus neoformans was detected using RT-FQ-PCR, ink staining, fungal culturing and C. neoformans antigen detection in CNM compared with a normal control. VAD1 mRNA was measured in both acute and stable CNM patients. The sensitivity of RT-FQ-PCR (96%) is higher than ink staining (72%) and culture culturing (64%) (P<0.05, P<0.05 respectively), but its sensitivity is the same as antigen detection (96%, P>0.05). The levels of VAD1 mRNA in the acute and stable phase of a C. neoformans infection are 3.042±0.906 and 2.187±0.665 respectively (P<0.01). The levels of VAD1 mRNA are correlated to the numbers of C. neoformans, intracranial pressure and glucose concentration in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF; P<0.01, P<0.01 and P<0.05 respectively). The levels of expression of VAD1 mRNA in the group of patients who received an AmB/5-FC/FZC drug regimen decreased more than in patients taking a 5-FC/AmB or 5-FC/FCZ drug combination. Quantitative measurements of VAD1 mRNA are valuable and reliable in diagnosing C. neoformans infection and evaluating a therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ou Qishui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fuzhou, 350005 Fujian, China.
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