Prophylactic antifungal agents used after lung transplantation

Abstract

Objective: To review the data supporting available antifungal agents and compare regimens utilized to prevent fungal infection in lung transplant recipients.

Data sources: Literature retrieval was accessed through MEDLINE (1950 through October 2009) and United Network for Organ Sharing online database (available data through October 2009), using the terms lung transplantation, prophylaxis, and fungal infection. In addition, reference citations from publications identified were reviewed.

Study selection and data extraction: All articles or related abstracts in English identified from the data sources above were evaluated. Literature including adult lung transplant recipients who received systemic antifungal prophylaxis to prevent invasive fungal infections (IFIs) was included in the review.

Data synthesis: IFIs after lung transplantation remain a common postoperative problem and are associated with high mortality. The lung is the most vulnerable solid organ to be transplanted, as it is the main organ responsible for gas exchange and therefore the high risk for pulmonary-related IFIs. It is most susceptible to developing an IFI, as it serves as a medium for organisms traveling from air to human tissue, potentially causing life-threatening infections. Such infections typically involve Candida and Aspergillus spp. and tend to occur within the first 12 months after transplant. Although there has been an increase in lung transplants performed over the past decade, no standard antifungal prophylactic regimen exists. Literature describing antifungals used to prevent IFI after transplant is scarce, which may be due to a lack of consistency in regimens used between transplant centers. Several regimens have been described utilizing different antifungal agents as both monotherapy and combination therapy. The majority of the literature reviewed here describes aerosolized amphotericin B formulations and azole antifungals demonstrating an overall decreased risk of fungal infection after lung transplantation. It has become the standard of practice to initiate some form of antifungal prophylaxis in these patients.

Conclusions: The risk of fungal infection after lung transplant is multifactorial and optimal prophylactic regimens should include agents with adequate activity against the most pathogenic fungi.