immunocompromised patients – Page 8

Efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for invasive fungal infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

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This study reviewed clinical trials comparing a newer antifungal drug called isavuconazole with other commonly used antifungal medications for treating serious fungal infections, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems. The research found that isavuconazole works just as well as other antifungal drugs but may have fewer side effects, especially liver problems. When compared directly with voriconazole, isavuconazole showed fewer drug-related side effects overall, making it a good alternative option for patients who cannot tolerate other antifungal treatments.

Staurosporine as an Antifungal Agent

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Staurosporine is a natural compound produced by soil bacteria that can kill fungi. Scientists originally discovered it in 1977 and found it works by blocking proteins called kinases that fungi need to survive. Recent research shows it could be useful against drug-resistant fungal infections, especially when combined with other antifungal medicines. However, it needs to be modified to make it safer for human use.

Invasive Fusarium rhinosinusitis in COVID-19 patients: report of three cases with successful management

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This study reports three cases of rare fungal sinus infections caused by Fusarium species that developed in COVID-19 patients. All three patients were successfully treated with a combination of surgical removal of infected tissue and antifungal medications. The cases highlight how COVID-19 and the use of steroids to treat it can increase the risk of serious fungal infections, emphasizing the importance of early detection and prompt treatment.

Extensive and recurrent infection caused by Medicopsis romeroi in two immunocompromised patients

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This case report describes two patients with weakened immune systems who developed serious fungal skin infections caused by a rare mold called Medicopsis romeroi. Both patients underwent multiple surgeries and required extended antifungal medication treatment lasting months to years. The study demonstrates that successful treatment requires a combination approach including surgical removal of infected tissue, adjustment of immunosuppressive medications, and prolonged antifungal therapy.

Trichosporon Urinary Tract Infections: A Hidden Menace Revealed

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Trichosporon is a fungus that causes urinary tract infections primarily in hospitalized patients and those with weakened immune systems. This review found that Trichosporon asahii is the most common species responsible for these infections, especially in patients with prolonged hospital stays or using immunosuppressive medications. The drug voriconazole works best against this fungus, while some common antifungal medications like amphotericin B are less effective. Accurate identification using modern laboratory techniques is crucial for proper treatment.

Immunomodulatory activity of Pleurotus pulmonarius crude extract to human monocyte against Cryptococcus neoformans

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This research shows that an extract from the Phoenix oyster mushroom (Pleurotus pulmonarius) can boost the body’s immune cells to fight dangerous fungal infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. When immune cells are pre-exposed to this mushroom extract and then encounter the fungus, they become more effective at killing it through increased production of immune-signaling molecules and reactive oxygen species. This natural supplement approach offers a promising alternative to traditional antifungal drugs, which often have significant side effects and can lead to drug resistance.

Multicenter performance evaluation of the “quanty TOXO (RH region)” kit (Clonit) for molecular diagnosis of toxoplasmosis

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Researchers from seven French hospitals tested a commercial DNA test kit called “quanty TOXO” that detects Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite causing serious infections in pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems. The kit performed well overall, correctly identifying infection in nearly 95% of positive cases and showing no false positives. However, the test sometimes missed infections when parasite levels were very low, suggesting doctors should run tests twice to increase detection chances.

A human-relevant alternative infection model for mucormycosis using the silkworm Bombyx mori

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Scientists developed a new way to test antifungal drugs using silkworms instead of expensive and ethically problematic mammal studies. They infected silkworms with mucormycosis-causing fungi and found that the infections behaved similarly to human cases, especially when they simulated human risk factors like steroid use and iron overload. The silkworm model successfully demonstrated that existing antifungal drugs work, while also revealing differences in fungal virulence that were linked to specific surface proteins.

Superficial Fungal Infections in Children—What Do We Know?

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Fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails are increasingly common in children worldwide, especially in warm, humid climates and in crowded living conditions. These infections are caused by germs that live on the skin and can spread through contact with infected people or animals. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems, but most infections are treatable with topical creams or oral medications, with terbinafine being the most effective option currently available.

Three new species of Talaromyces sect. Talaromyces discovered in China

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Scientists discovered three new species of Talaromyces fungi in soil samples from China. These fungi are important because they can break down plant material for industrial use and produce compounds with medical value, though some related species can cause serious infections in people with weakened immune systems. The researchers identified these new species by studying their physical characteristics and comparing their DNA sequences to known species.

Research Keyword: immunocompromised patients