Duration of antifungal treatment in mold infection: when is enough?

Abstract

Purpose of review Although invasive mold infections (IMI) are a major complication in high-risk populations, treatment duration has not yet been well defined. Recent findings Guidelines suggest documenting clinical/radiological resolution and immunological recovery before stopping antifungal treatment, after a minimum duration of treatment of 3 months for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, while longer (up to 6 months) duration is proposed for the treatment of invasive mucormycosis. However, data on and definitions of clinical/radiological resolution and immune recovery remain scarce. Limited real-life data suggest that often much longer courses of treatment are given, generally in the context of continuous immunosuppression, occasionally defined as secondary prophylaxis. However, clearcut definition and distinction of secondary prophylaxis from antifungal treatment remain to be defined. Summary Decisions to stop antifungal treatment are based on poorly defined treatment responses and immune reconstitution and experts’ opinions. More evidence is needed to determine the optimal duration of treatment of IMI. Well designed, easy to use, and realistic algorithms to help clinicians decide when to stop antifungal treatment are urgently needed.