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Early Antifungal Treatment in Immunocompromised Patients, Including Hematological and Critically Ill Patients

  • Galina Klyasova
  • , Galina Solopova
  • , Jehad Abdalla
  • , Marina Popova
  • , Muhlis Cem Ar
  • , Murat Sungur
  • , Riad El Fakih
  • , Reem S. Almaghrabi
  • , Murat Akova
  • Russian Academy of Medical Sciences
  • Dmitry Rogachev National Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology
  • Pavlov First State Medical University of St. Petersburg
  • Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa
  • Erciyes University
  • King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre
  • Alfaisal University
  • Hacettepe University

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

(1) Background: Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) represent significant challenges in clinical practice, particularly among immunocompromised individuals, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. The present document aims to provide evidence-based consensus for the timely initiation of antifungal treatment, focusing on early empiric approaches among immunocompromised patients. (2) Methods: A multidisciplinary expert panel of nine healthcare professionals (HCPs) reviewed the literature, including guidelines and consensus reports (2013–2023; PubMed, Scopus). The panel defined appropriate empiric antifungal approaches for invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis, and mucormycosis among hematological and critically ill patients. Consensus was defined as ≥75% agreement. (3) Results: A total of 47 statements were included. The experts recommend that early targeted antifungal therapy is critical for high-risk patients with suspected IFDs. Empiric therapy may be initiated before definitive diagnosis, considering the local fungal prevalence and the patient’s risk category. Close monitoring is essential, and switching between antifungal classes may be necessary for patients who experience deterioration or side effects. The transition from intravenous to oral therapy depends on the specific infection, the availability of therapeutic drug monitoring, and the patient’s progress. (4) Conclusions: Implementing this targeted, early approach may improve the outcomes of vulnerable patients with IFDs.

Original languageEnglish
Article number59
JournalJournal of Fungi
Volume12
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2026

Keywords

  • Delphi survey
  • antifungal agents
  • consensus
  • critically ill patients
  • early antifungal treatment
  • empiric antifungal therapy
  • immunocompromised patients
  • invasive fungal diseases
  • opportunistic infection

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