PROPHYLAXIS AND THERAPY OF FUNGAL-INFECTI ONS IN ONCOLOGY

The observation of a considerable incidence of fungal infections in on cology patients has promoted a large number of studies both on prophyl axis and treatment in this patient group. Trials using triazoles, espe cially fluconazole, have shown effect in preventing fungal infections. In neutropenic patients, their role in therapy still remains less cle ar. Amphotericin B is the drug of choice for most life-threatening inf ections. With this drug, efforts concentrate upon the amelioration of side effects by sodium loading, administration in lipid emulsions or l iposomes. The use of AMB as low-dose systemic prophylaxis or by inhala tion needs further study.