[New antifungal agents in the treatment of superficial dermatomycoses]

Abstract

New antifungals for topical and systemic treatment of superficial mycotic infections of the skin and nails have been developed in the last decade. Terconazole is a potent drug in treating topically vaginal candidiasis. Amorolfine belongs to the chemical class of morpholine derivatives and is topically active against a wide range of fungal infections. Also naftifine and terbinafine, two new allylamines, can be used in local therapy of superficial mycotic infections of the skin. Itraconazole and fluconazole are both new triazoles for systemic use. Itraconazole has a broader spectrum and a higher safety profile than ketoconazole, caused by a greater specificity for the fungal cytochrome P 450 14-alpha-demethylase. The pharmacokinetic properties result in shorter treatments, even in onychomycosis. The mode of action of fluconazole is the same as for the azoles. This drug was being studied particularly in systemic mycoses and mucosal candidiasis. The activity of orally terbinafine is directed mainly against dermatophytes. This drug offers new therapeutic possibilities in the treatment of onychomycosis, caused by dermatophytes.