To evaluate the clinical role of amphotericin/20% Intralipid emulsions
(ILA), we conducted a Medline search of the English literature to loc
ate the relevant case reports and clinical studies involving the use o
f this formulation. Due to differences in study design and definitions
, we applied a set of treatment outcome definitions to determine the c
linical efficacy of this treatment modality. Only 37 patients received
ILA for the treatment of documented fungal infections. Using our defi
nitions, four were considered successfully treated, one improved, two
failed, and 30 were unevaluable. While infusion-related adverse events
and nephrotoxicity were reportedly reduced with ILA, use of adjunctiv
e therapies and concomitant nephrotoxic agents, and comparisons with h
igh infusion concentrations complicate evaluation. Furthermore, incomp
lete and conflicting data exist regarding the physiochemical stability
of ILA. The currently available data do not support recommendations f
or the use of this formulation for the treatment of systemic fungal in
fections.