Tag

Antifungal Treatment

All articles tagged with #antifungal treatment

Washington Faces Spread of Drug-Resistant Candida Auris
health7 days ago

Washington Faces Spread of Drug-Resistant Candida Auris

A drug-resistant yeast called Candida auris is spreading across the United States, including Washington state, with more than 4,500 cases nationwide in 2026 and at least a dozen WA infections. It can cause everything from shallow skin infections to life-threatening bloodstream infections and is often resistant to antifungal drugs. The infection mainly hits hospitalized patients with invasive medical devices and those with weakened immune systems, with invasive infections carrying a 30%–60% mortality rate. Treatment usually requires multiple antifungal drugs. Preventing spread relies on strict infection-control in healthcare settings—hand hygiene, patient isolation, room disinfection, and use of gloves and gowns—while home precautions emphasize regular handwashing and careful care of any invasive medical devices.

New Fungal STI Detected in MSM Community
health1 year ago

New Fungal STI Detected in MSM Community

A new sexually transmitted fungal infection caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) has been identified in four men in New York City, all of whom are men who have sex with men (MSM). The infection, which can be mistaken for eczema or psoriasis, is spread through direct skin contact and has been reported in Europe as well. All patients were successfully treated with antifungals. Experts emphasize the need for awareness, better testing, and monitoring of TMVII, as well as further research on treatment and transmission.

First U.S. Case of Sexually Transmitted, Drug-Resistant Fungal Infection Detected in NYC
health2 years ago

First U.S. Case of Sexually Transmitted, Drug-Resistant Fungal Infection Detected in NYC

Health experts in NYC have identified the first US case of a sexually transmitted fungal infection, Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII), in a man who developed rashes on his penis, buttocks, and limbs. The infection, which has been rising in Europe, particularly among men who have sex with men, responds to standard antifungal treatments but can be confused with eczema, delaying treatment. Another fungal strain, Trichophyton indotineae, widespread in India, has shown resistance to common antifungal medication, posing a greater challenge for dermatologists.

Understanding Candida Auris: The Deadly Fungal Outbreak in Washington and Across the US
health2 years ago

Understanding Candida Auris: The Deadly Fungal Outbreak in Washington and Across the US

Candida auris, a deadly fungal disease, is spreading rapidly across the US, particularly in healthcare settings, with a high fatality rate. It primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems and is often resistant to antifungal treatments. The first case was reported in 2016, and recent outbreaks have been observed in states like Washington, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. Treatment options are limited due to resistance, but prevention measures such as colonization screening, clinical specimen testing, and hand hygiene can help curb its spread.

Gut Fungi and Long-Term Immune Changes in Severe COVID
health2 years ago

Gut Fungi and Long-Term Immune Changes in Severe COVID

An imbalance of fungi in the gut, particularly the yeast Candida albicans, has been linked to excessive inflammation in individuals with severe COVID-19 or long COVID. A study found that people with severe disease had elevated levels of a fungus that can activate the immune system and induce long-lasting changes. The presence of certain fungal species, including Candida albicans, was associated with disease severity. Antifungal treatment could potentially provide relief to critically ill COVID-19 patients. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms involved and explore the potential repurposing of existing antifungal treatments.

Effective Treatments for Toenail Fungus
health3 years ago

Effective Treatments for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection that affects an estimated one in 10 people worldwide. It is characterized by yellowing, brittle, and unusual-looking toenails. While the infection does not go away on its own, it can be managed with the right treatment. Prescription antifungal medications, both topical and oral, are the most effective options for killing the fungus. Over-the-counter treatments may improve nail appearance but do not eliminate the infection. It is important to confirm the presence of fungus before starting treatment to avoid unnecessary use of antifungals and the development of antifungal resistance. Preventive measures, such as keeping toenails trimmed, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, and treating athlete's foot promptly, can help reduce the risk of toenail fungus.

healthcare3 years ago

Cidara's FDA Approval of Antifungal Treatment Fails to Boost Stock Amid Lower Q4 Earnings.

Cidara Therapeutics received FDA approval for its antifungal treatment, Rezzayo, for treating candidemia and invasive candidiasis in adults with limited or no alternative treatment options. However, the company's Q4 earnings report showed lower than expected revenues and an EPS loss, causing a 15.8% drop in its stock price. The FDA approval enables Cidara to receive a $20 million regulatory milestone payment under its agreement with Melinta Therapeutics.