Voriconazole-induced retinoid-like photosensitivity in children

The phenomenon of phototoxicity and long-term risks of commonly prescribed and structurally diverse drugs

Photosensitivity to structurally diverse drugs is a common but under-reported adverse cutaneous reaction and can be classified as phototoxic or photoallergic. Phototoxic reactions occur when the skin is exposed to sunlight after administering topical or systemic medications that exhibit photosensitizing activity. These reactions depend on the dose of medication, degree of exposure to ultraviolet light, type of ultraviolet light, and sufficient skin distribution volume. Accurate prediction of the incidence and phototoxic response severity is challenging due to a paucity of literature, suggesting that phototoxicity may be more frequent than reported. This paper reports an extensive literature review on phototoxic drugs; the review employed pre-determined search criteria that included meta-analyses, systematic reviews, literature reviews, and case reports freely available in full text. Additional reports were identified from reference sections that contributed to the understanding of phototoxicity. The following drugs and/or drug classes are discussed: amiodarone, voriconazole, chlorpromazine, doxycycline, fluoroquinolones, hydrochlorothiazide, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and vemurafenib. In reviewing phototoxic skin reactions, this review highlights drug molecular structures, their reactive pathways, and, as there is a growing association between photosensitizing drugs and the increasing incidence of skin cancer, the consequential long-term implications of photocarcinogenesis.

Drug-Induced Photosensitivity-From Light and Chemistry to Biological Reactions and Clinical Symptoms

Photosensitivity is one of the most common cutaneous adverse drug reactions. There are two types of drug-induced photosensitivity: photoallergy and phototoxicity. Currently, the number of photosensitization cases is constantly increasing due to excessive exposure to sunlight, the aesthetic value of a tan, and the increasing number of photosensitizing substances in food, dietary supplements, and pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. The risk of photosensitivity reactions relates to several hundred externally and systemically administered drugs, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, psychotropic, antimicrobial, antihyperlipidemic, and antineoplastic drugs. Photosensitivity reactions often lead to hospitalization, additional treatment, medical management, decrease in patient's comfort, and the limitations of drug usage. Mechanisms of drug-induced photosensitivity are complex and are observed at a cellular, molecular, and biochemical level. Photoexcitation and photoconversion of drugs trigger multidirectional biological reactions, including oxidative stress, inflammation, and changes in melanin synthesis. These effects contribute to the appearance of the following symptoms: erythema, swelling, blisters, exudation, peeling, burning, itching, and hyperpigmentation of the skin. This article reviews in detail the chemical and biological basis of drug-induced photosensitivity. The following factors are considered: the chemical properties, the influence of individual ranges of sunlight, the presence of melanin biopolymers, and the defense mechanisms of particular types of tested cells.

Drug-Induced Photosensitivity-An Update: Culprit Drugs, Prevention and Management

Photosensitive drug eruptions are cutaneous adverse events due to exposure to a medication and either ultraviolet or visible radiation. In this review, the diagnosis, prevention and management of drug-induced photosensitivity is discussed. Diagnosis is based largely on the history of drug intake and the appearance of the eruption primarily affecting sun-exposed areas of the skin. This diagnosis can also be aided by tools such as phototesting, photopatch testing and rechallenge testing. The mainstay of management is prevention, including informing patients of the possibility of increased photosensitivity as well as the use of appropriate sun protective measures. Once a photosensitivity reaction has occurred, it may be necessary to discontinue the culprit medication and treat the reaction with corticosteroids. For certain medications, long-term surveillance may be indicated because of a higher risk of developing melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma at sites of earlier photosensitivity reactions. A large number of medications have been implicated as causes of photosensitivity, many with convincing clinical and scientific supporting evidence. We review the medical literature regarding the evidence for the culpability of each drug, including the results of phototesting, photopatch testing and rechallenge testing. Amiodarone, chlorpromazine, doxycycline, hydrochlorothiazide, nalidixic acid, naproxen, piroxicam, tetracycline, thioridazine, vemurafenib and voriconazole are among the most consistently implicated and warrant the most precaution by both the physician and patient.

Insights on the interaction of Zn2+ cation with triazoles: Structures, bonding, electronic excitation and applications

At present, we investigate the structures, the stability, the bonding and the spectroscopy of the Zn²⁺-triazole complexes (Zn²⁺-Tz), which are subunits of triazolate based porous materials and Zn-enzymes. This theoretical work is performed using ab initio methods and density functional theory (DFT) where dispersion correction is included. Through these benchmarks, we establish the ability and reliability of M05-2X+D3 and PBE0+D3 functionals for the correct description of Zn²⁺-Tz bond since these DFTs lead to close agreement with post Hartree-Fock methods. Therefore, M05-2X+D3 and PBE0+D3 functionals are recommended for the characterization of larger organometallic complexes formed by Zn and N-rich linkers. For Zn²⁺-Tz, we found two stable σ-type complexes: (i) a planar structure where Zn²⁺ links to unprotonated nitrogen and (ii) an out-of-plane cluster where carbon interacts with Zn²⁺. The most stable isomers consist on a coordinated covalent bond between the lone pair of unprotonated nitrogen and the vacant 4s orbital of Zn²⁺. The roles of covalent interactions within these complexes are discussed after vibrational, NBO, NPA charges and orbital analyses. The bonding is dominated by charge transfer from Zn²⁺ to Tz and intramolecular charge transfer, which plays a vital role for the catalytic activity of these complexes. These findings are important to understand, at the microscopic level, the structure and the bonding within triazolate based macromolecular porous materials and Zn-enzymes.

Association Between Discoid Lupus Erythematosus and Chronic Granulomatous Disease--Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is known to be associated with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), but most DLE occurs in female carriers of X-linked CGD, with few reports of these lesions in CGD-affected individuals--this observation is unexplained. We describe two cases of DLE-like lesions in boys with CGD: one boy with partial neutrophil function and another whose lesions were related to voriconazole use. Reviewing other previously reported cases, we conclude that the risk of developing DLE-like lesions appears to be greater primarily in two subsets of the population with CGD: those with partial neutrophil function and those with near-absent neutrophil function in whom there is a second trigger. In light of recent literature on the role of neutrophils in lupus pathogenesis, we propose that pathogenesis of DLE in CGD may be related to NETosis, neutrophil dysfunction and a deficiency of reactive oxygen species, which medications such as voriconazole also influence.

Voriconazole therapeutic drug monitoring: results of a prematurely discontinued randomized multicenter trial

BACKGROUND

Voriconazole (VOR) levels are highly variable, with potential implications to both efficacy and safety. We hypothesized that VOR therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) will decrease the incidence of treatment failures and adverse events (AEs).

METHODS

We initiated a prospective, randomized, non-blinded multicenter study to compare clinical outcomes in adult patients randomized to standard dosing (clinician-driven) vs. TDM (doses adjusted based on levels). VOR trough levels were obtained on day 5, 14, 28, and 42 (or at completion of drug; ± 3 days). Real-time dose adjustments were made to maintain a range between 1-5 μg/mL on the TDM-arm, while levels were assessed retrospectively in the standard-arm. Patient questionnaires were administered to assess subjective AEs.

RESULTS

The study was discontinued prematurely, after 29 patients were enrolled. Seventeen (58.6%) patients experienced 38 AEs: visual changes (22/38, 57.9%), neurological symptoms (13/38, 34.2%), and liver abnormalities (3/38, 7.9%). VOR was discontinued in 7 (25%) patients because of an AE (4 standard-arm, 3 TDM-arm). VOR levels were frequently out of range in the standard-arm (8 tests >5 μg/mL; 9 tests <1 μg/mL). Three dose changes occurred in the TDM-arm for VOR levels <1 μg/mL. Levels decreased over time in the standard-arm, with mean VOR levels lower at end of therapy compared to TDM (1.3 vs. 4.6 μg/mL, P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

VOR TDM has become widespread clinical practice, based on known variability in drug levels, which impaired accrual in this study. Although comparative conclusions are limited, observations of variability and waning levels over time support TDM.

Voriconazole-associated phototoxic dermatoses and skin cancer

Voriconazole's antifungal spectrum, oral bioavailability, and proven efficacy in treatment of invasive mycoses have led to its widespread off-label use for antifungal prophylaxis. There is an increasing recognition that long-term voriconazole use is associated with accelerated sun-induced skin changes that include acute phototoxicity reactions, photoaging, actinic keratosis and esp. among immunocompromised patients, skin cancers. The mechanisms underlying these dermatologic adverse events are not clearly understood. Population-risks of long-term voriconazole use need to be prospectively investigated. This review aims to provide an in-depth assessment of published literature and highlight salient findings from retrospective studies and case series. A broad practical guideline for assessment and management of these patients is provided.

A review of clinical experience with newer antifungals in children

Fungal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised children. Since the beginning of the 21st century, many new antifungals including the echinocandins (i.e., caspofungin, micafungin, anidulafungin) and the newer generation triazoles (i.e., voriconazole and posaconazole) have received Food and Drug Administration approval. Unfortunately, despite making great strides in the adult arena, these agents are not currently approved in the pediatric population. However, pharmacokinetic data and clinical experiences with these agents in infants, children, and adolescents are mounting. As such, this review will discuss key concepts in pediatric pharmacology and clinical use of these newer antifungal agents.

Voriconazole-induced phototoxicity in children

Voriconazole is used in antifungal prophylaxis. We performed a retrospective review of immunocompromised children receiving prophylaxis with voriconazole during major hospital renovation, who developed phototoxic skin reactions. The overall incidence of phototoxic skin reactions was 33%. A voriconazole dose of ≥6 mg/kg of body weight per dose twice daily was associated with a significantly greater risk to develop phototoxic skin reactions compared with lower doses.

High cumulative dose exposure to voriconazole is associated with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in lung transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Lung transplant recipients (LTR) have an increased risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) due to immunosuppressive therapy. Voriconazole, which is associated with phototoxic side effects in some patients, may be an additional risk factor for SCC in this population.

METHODS

To test whether voriconazole is a risk factor for developing SCC in LTR, we evaluated cumulative exposure to voriconazole in 327 adults who underwent lung transplantation at one center between 1991 and 2010. Voriconazole exposure was assessed as a time-varying covariate. We used survival analysis methods to assess the risk of developing SCC over time.

RESULTS

Exposure to voriconazole was associated with a 2.6-fold increased risk for SCC. This phenomenon was dose-dependent: the risk for SCC increased by 5.6% with each 60-day exposure at a standard dose of 200 mg twice daily. At 5 years after transplant, voriconazole conferred an absolute risk increase for SCC of 28%.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that caution should be taken when using voriconazole in LTR because this drug increases the already high risk for SCC in this population.

The use of antifungal therapy in neonatal intensive care

Invasive fungal infections remain a significant cause of infection-related mortality and morbidity in preterm infants. Central nervous system involvement is the hallmark of neonatal candidiasis, differentiating the disease's impact on young infants from that among all other patient populations. Over the past decade, the number of antifungal agents in development has grown, but most are not labeled for use in newborns. We summarize the findings of several antifungal studies that have been completed to date, emphasizing those including infant populations. We conclude that more studies are required for antifungals to be used safely and effectively in infants.

Drug-induced photosensitivity: culprit drugs, management and prevention

Photo-induced drug eruptions are cutaneous adverse events due to exposure to a drug and either ultraviolet or visible radiation. Based on their pathogenesis, they can be classified as phototoxic or photoallergic drug eruptions, although in many cases it is not possible to determine whether a particular eruption is due to a phototoxic or photoallergic mechanism. In this review, the diagnosis, prevention and management of drug-induced photosensitivity are discussed. Diagnosis is based primarily on the history of drug intake and the clinical appearance of the eruption, primarily affecting sun-exposed areas of the skin. Phototesting and photopatch testing can be useful adjuncts in making a diagnosis. The mainstay of management is prevention, including informing patients of the possibility of increased sun sensitivity and the use of sun protective measures. However, once the eruption has occurred, it may be necessary to discontinue the culprit medication and treat the eruption with a potent topical corticosteroid. Drugs that have been implicated in causing photosensitive eruptions are reviewed. Tetracycline, doxycycline, nalidixic acid, voriconazole, amiodarone, hydrochlorothiazide, naproxen, piroxicam, chlorpromazine and thioridazine are among the most commonly implicated medications. We review the medical literature regarding evidence for the culpability of each drug, including the results of phototesting, photopatch testing and rechallenge testing.

Long-term voriconazole and skin cancer: is there cause for concern?

Skin toxicity due to voriconazole is well recognized. Recently, several series have reported skin cancer, particularly cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (C-SCC), following photosensitivity reactions among patients receiving long-term voriconazole (>12 months). Almost all patients were immunosuppressed, including stem cell and solid organ transplant recipients. A case-control study of lung transplant recipients identified long-term voriconazole (median cumulative dose: 76 grams) and residence in areas of strong sun exposure as independent risk factors for C-SCC. The mechanism(s) by which voriconazole may predispose to skin cancer is not clear. Moreover, the relative contribution of voriconazole and other factors such as immunosuppression, ultraviolet exposure, advanced age and skin type is unknown. Until further data are available, voriconazole should be used carefully for durations >6-9 months, particularly among patients with risk factors for skin cancer. In patients requiring prolonged voriconazole, diligent skin examinations, avoidance of excess sunlight, and liberal use of UV protectants are advisable.

Phototoxicity and photocarcinogenesis associated with voriconazole

The antifungal voriconazole was given its marketing authorization in 2002. Several kinds of adverse effects have been reported, including acute and chronic cutaneous adverse effects, mainly due to a phototoxicity mechanism. More recently, some authors have reported that voriconazole was involved in the occurrence of multiple and often-aggressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas if the treatment was maintained for a long time. According to safety data in studies assessing voriconazole effectiveness, 8% of outpatients may experience phototoxic events. An overview of the different types of phototoxicity and of the concerned population was given by the 61 published case reports of photo-induced voriconazole-related skin adverse events (including 18 cases of squamous cell carcinomas). The most likely mechanisms may be phototoxicity directly related to either voriconazole or to its N-oxide main metabolite, and an interaction with retinoid metabolism; moreover, immunodeficiency may enhance the risk of skin cancer. Several issues remain to be investigated, and studies are needed concerning the phototoxicity and photocarcinogenesis of voriconazole and the prognosis of chronic non-malignant skin lesions. Voriconazole prescription must be associated with strict photoprotection; in case of a phototoxic adverse event, another azole may be recommended.

Skin cancer in transplant recipients, out of the woods. Scientific retreat of the ITSCC and SCOPE

The International Transplant Skin Cancer Collaborative (ITSCC) is an organization of more than 300 members dedicated to the study and care of skin changes that develop in solid-organ transplant recipients. This group of medical and surgical dermatologists, transplant surgeons and basic science researchers was formed to better understand the basic science of transplant dermatology, and to work collaboratively to address the clinical challenges in this patient population. Transplant patients have an ∼100-fold increased risk of developing cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma than the general population and are also at an increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma and Kaposi's sarcoma. In October 2010, ITSCC and its European counterpart Skin Care in Organ Transplant Patients Europe (SCOPE) held a joint biennial 4-day scientific retreat in the woods near Essex, Massachusetts. In this meeting report we provide an up-to-date distillation of the novel findings presented in the 21 oral abstracts, at the tumor board and within the working groups.

Multifocal aggressive squamous cell carcinomas induced by prolonged voriconazole therapy: a case report

Voriconazole is a treatment for severe fungal infections. Prolonged voriconazole therapy may induce skin reactions, with 1% of severe photosensitivity accidents. Recently the imputability of voriconazole in skin carcinogenesis has been suggested. This report concerns a 55-year-old man suffering from pulmonary aspergillosis who presented a phototoxic reaction a few months after introduction of voriconazole, followed by multiple squamous cell carcinomas of sun-exposed skin areas. After voriconazole discontinuation, no new carcinoma was observed. The detection of EBV and HPV in skin lesions was negative. Exploration of gene mutations involved in skin carcinogenesis showed two variants of the MICR gene. The occurrence of multiple, recurrent, aggressive squamous cell carcinomas is rare with voriconazole, but its imputability is strongly suggested. A plausible hypothesis is that several factors including voriconazole uptake, immunosuppression, and genetic background could explain the phenotype of fast-developing skin carcinomas. Voriconazole therapy should be accompanied by stringent photoprotection and skin monitoring.

Severe phototoxicity associated with long-term voriconazole treatment

Voriconazole is a second-generation triazole antifungal approved for the treatment of invasive fungal infections, particularly with Aspergillus, Candida, Fusarium, and Scedosporium spp. Frequently reported adverse effects of voriconazole include visual disturbance (21 %), elevated liver enzymes (15.6 %) and rashes (7 %), which are largely attributable to drug-induced photosensitivity. We report a case of serious phototoxicity in a 8 year old boy who underwent chemotherapy for AML. He received voriconazole for the treatment and subsequent re-infection prophylaxis after pulmonary aspergillosis. One year after the start of therapy he developed blistering eruptions on his face after minimal sunlight exposure. Recent reports about the development of squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, respectively, in children during and after oral therapy with voriconazole seem to warrant systematic follow-up investigations of all voriconazole-treated patients.

Voriconazole inhibition of vitamin A metabolism: are adverse events increased in cystic fibrosis patients?

BACKGROUND

As Voriconazole is being used more frequently in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, we aimed to describe the adverse events associated with voriconazole treatment in this population.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all children with CF who received voriconazole between September 2006 and August 2008.

RESULTS

Five of six CF patients receiving treatment developed photosensitivity, whereas all six patients reported visual disturbances. We report two clinical cases of particular interest: a 7-year-old boy developed striking erythema in the face and upper thorax; a 16-year-old girl who reported unexpected visual disturbances, including scotomas and tunneling vision.

CONCLUSION

Significant adverse effects of voriconazole were noted in all treated CF patients. We speculate that this may be due to suppression of activity of hepatic enzymes involved in all transretinonic acid metabolism coupled with vitamin A supplementation in CF. Consideration should be given to reducing vitamin A supplementation during voriconazole treatment.

Clinical safety and tolerability issues in use of triazole derivatives in management of fungal infections

There has been an increase in the number of patients susceptible to invasive fungal infections (IFIs) leading to a greater need for effective, well tolerated, and easily administered antifungal agents. The advent of triazoles has revolutionized the care of patients requiring treatment or prophylaxis for IFIs. However, triazoles have been associated with a number of adverse events and significant drug–drug interactions. While commonly used, physicians and patients should be aware of the distinct properties of these agents in order to ensure that patients are optimally treated with the least amount of toxicity possible. Clinicians should have a full understanding of the basic pharmacokinetics, absorption, and bioavailability of triazoles. Moreover, knowledge of the drug–drug interactions and potential toxicities of each agent is critical prior to administering a triazole. Careful history taking, thorough review of the patient’s medication list, and detailed discussion with the patients and their families about the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of these agents should be performed. Clinicians treating patients with triazoles should closely follow them, monitor pertinent laboratory tests, and consider measuring drug levels as needed. This article will review the basic pharmacokinetic properties and most frequently encountered adverse events and pitfalls associated with triazoles in clinical practice.

Melanoma associated with long-term voriconazole therapy: a new manifestation of chronic photosensitivity

BACKGROUND

Voriconazole is a triazole antifungal agent approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for serious fungal infections, including with Aspergillus, Fusarium, Pseudallescheria, and Scedosporium species. In initial clinical trials, approximately 2% of patients developed cutaneous reactions, including photosensitivity, cheilitis, and xerosis. Subsequent reports have implicated voriconazole as a cause of severe photosensitivity and accelerated photoaging, pseudoporphyria cutanea tarda, and aggressive squamous cell carcinoma.

OBSERVATION

We report 5 melanoma in situ lesions in the setting of extreme photosensitivity associated with long-term voriconazole therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend surveillance for skin cancer formation in all patients who require long-term voriconazole treatment, particularly those who manifest signs or symptoms of photosensitivity or chronic photodamage. Further study of the mechanism underlying voriconazole photosensitivity and oncogenesis is warranted.

Lupus erythematosus-like lesions by voriconazole in an infant with chronic granulomatous disease

We report the first case of lupus-like lesions in an infant with chronic granulomatous disease during the treatment with voriconazole for chronic invasive aspergillosis. The lesions disappeared with termination of the treatment.

Chronic phototoxicity and aggressive squamous cell carcinoma of the skin in children and adults during treatment with voriconazole

BACKGROUND

Voriconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent associated with photosensitivity and accelerated photoaging. A possible link with aggressive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has also been reported.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine the incidence and frequency of cutaneous SCC among patients undergoing long-term treatment with voriconazole who also manifest features of chronic phototoxicity.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of patients who developed one or more squamous cell neoplasms during long-term treatment with voriconazole at 3 academic dermatology centers.

RESULTS

A total of 51 cutaneous SCC were identified in 8 patients (median age 34.5 years, range 9-54) treated with chronic voriconazole (median duration 46.5 months, range 13-60). Underlying diagnoses included graft-versus-host disease, HIV, and Wegener granulomatosis. Signs of chronic phototoxicity and accelerated photoaging included erythema, actinic keratoses, and lentigo formation.

LIMITATIONS

The retrospective nature of the study cannot determine the true population risk of SCC associated with voriconazole therapy. A prospective cohort study is needed.

CONCLUSION

A high index of suspicion for photosensitivity and SCC may be warranted with chronic voriconazole use when used in the setting of concurrent immunosuppression.

Voriconazole-induced phototoxicity masquerading as chronic graft-versus-host disease of the skin in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant recipients

Systemic fungal infections pose a significant risk to patients following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT). Voriconazole (Vfend, Pfizer) is an oral second-generation triazole antifungal agent that offers a broad spectrum of coverage against fungal species and is frequently utilized in the post-HCT setting. Herein, we describe 5 patients who were initially believed to be experiencing a flare of cutaneous chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), but who were actually exhibiting phototoxicity caused by voriconazole. A high index of suspicion for this adverse reaction in the post-alloHCT setting will prevent misdiagnosis and avoid inappropriate therapy for cGVHD.

Voriconazole-induced photosensitivity

Voriconazole is a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal agent indicated for invasive aspergillosis, refractory Candida infections, and other emerging invasive fungal infections. Adverse cutaneous reactions associated with voriconazole therapy occur in fewer than 10% of treated patients and range from mild erythematous eruptions to life-threatening reactions such as the Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Photosensitivity reactions are an uncommon but characteristic dermatitis in voriconazole recipients, particularly following chronic administration. We report a case of voriconazole-induced phototoxicity in a 50-year-old male with Candida parapsilosis endocarditis that reversed on discontinuation of the drug.

Aggressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma associated with prolonged voriconazole therapy in a renal transplant patient

A 69-year-old man, with a history of end-stage renal disease due to polyarteritis nodosa, followed by invasive pulmonary aspergillosis secondary to cyclophosphamide and corticosteroids, received a renal transplant 2 years ago under prophylactic treatment with voriconazole. Because of the severity of the aspergillosis, it was decided to continue voriconazole for a prolonged period. Eighteen months after transplantation, the patient developed a severe facial phototoxic reaction. A few months later, he developed multiple actinic keratoses and a large, rapidly expanding, poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with perineural invasion and metastatic lymph nodes, necessitating radical surgery and radiotherapy. Voriconazole therapy has been suggested to be involved in the development of multi-focal invasive SCC when complicated by a phototoxic reaction. Therefore, an alternative antifungal prophylaxis regimen (for instance with posaconazole) should be considered when evaluating patients for solid organ transplantation who are at high risk for the development of cutaneous malignancies.

Voriconazole : a review of its use in the management of invasive fungal infections

Voriconazole (VFEND), a synthetic second-generation, broad-spectrum triazole derivative of fluconazole, inhibits the cytochrome P450 (CYP)-dependent enzyme 14-alpha-sterol demethylase, thereby disrupting the cell membrane and halting fungal growth. In the US, intravenous and/or oral voriconazole is recommended in adults for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis, candidaemia in non-neutropenic patients, disseminated infections caused by Candida spp., oesophageal candidiasis, and in patients with scedosporiosis and fusariosis who are refractory to or intolerant of other antifungal therapy. In Europe, intravenous and/or oral voriconazole is recommended in adults and paediatric patients of at least 2 years of age for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis, candidaemia in non-neutropenic patients, fluconazole-resistant serious invasive Candida spp. infections, scedosporiosis and fusariosis. In large randomised trials, voriconazole was an effective and generally well tolerated primary treatment for candidiasis and invasive aspergillosis in adults and adolescents. More limited data also support the use of voriconazole for the treatment of invasive fungal infections in children, in those with rare fungal infections, such as Fusarium spp. or Scedosporium spp., and in those refractory to or intolerant of other standard antifungal therapies. The availability of both parenteral and oral formulations and the almost complete absorption of the drug after oral administration provide for ease of use and potential cost savings, and ensure that therapeutic plasma concentrations are maintained when switching from intravenous to oral therapy. On the other hand, the numerous drug interactions associated with voriconazole may limit its usefulness in some patients. Further clinical experience will help to more fully determine the position of voriconazole in relation to other licensed antifungal agents. In the meantime, voriconazole is a valuable emerging option for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis and rare fungal infections, including Fusarium spp. and Scedosporium spp. infections, and provides an alternative option for the treatment of candidiasis, particularly where the causative organism is inherently resistant to other licensed antifungal agents.

Severe Photosensitivity Causing Multifocal Squamous Cell Carcinomas Secondary to Prolonged Voriconazole Therapy

A 32-year-old woman was treated with long-term voriconazole therapy for recurrent aspergillosis associated with chronic granulomatous disease. A short time after commencement of voriconazole therapy, a severe photosensitivity reaction developed. Continued voriconazole exposure led to the development of multifocal facial squamous cell carcinomas. The photosensitivity reaction resolved after the patient changed therapy to posaconazole.

Photosensibilisation au voriconazole : 7 cas

BACKGROUND

Voriconazole is a new second-generation fluconazole-derived triazole. With greater potency against susceptible species and a broader spectrum of activity than fluconazole, it is the treatment of choice for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and other fungal infections (Fusarium, Scedosporium/Pseudalleschezria) is indicated in a visit Candida infections refractory to fluconazole. We describe 7 cases of photosensitivity during treatment with voriconazole in a setting of immunodepression.

CASE REPORTS

The patients comprised 5 women and 2 men with a mean age of 38 years (17-67 years). Five had undergone pulmonary transplantation for mucoviscidosis, one had undergone kidney transplantation for lupus nephroangiosclerosis and one was on long-term systemic steroid treatment for Sjögren's syndrome. All patients had very severe immunosuppression and were receiving voriconazole for pulmonary aspergillosis (6 cases) or Scedosporium infection (1 case). Photosensitization appeared within 5 weeks to 14 months after the start of treatment, and in all cases followed exposure to sun, occasionally at low levels. In all cases, cutaneous lesions rapidly disappeared on discontinuation of treatment.

DISCUSSION

There have been reports in the literature, although rare, of photosensitivity with voriconazole. Patients must be informed of the possibility of this adverse effect and sun protection must be recommended when voriconazole is prescribed, particularly during periods of intensive exposure.