A. Streinu-Cercel *, Cristina Popescu *, G. A. Popescu *
* Dr. Adrian Streinu-Cercel, Director general al Institutului de Boli Infecțioase “Prof. dr. Matei Balș”, profesor universitar UMF “Carol Davila” București
** Dr. Cristina Popescu, asistent universitar UMF “Carol Davila” București, medic primar Institutului de Boli Infecțioase “Prof. dr. Matei Balș”
*** Dr. Gabriel Adrian Popescu, șef de lucrări UMF “Carol Davila” București, medic primar Institutul de Boli Infecțioase “Prof. dr. Matei Balș”
Abstract
Caspofungin is an echinocandin with fungicidal activity against a wide spectrum of pathogens: Candida spp, Aspergillus spp, Histoplasma spp. Caspofungin inhibits the enzyme 1,3-D-glucan synthase and disrupting the fungal cell wall. Interpretative breakpoints for caspofungin acetate
have not been determined. Caspofungin is comparable to amphotericin B and itraconazol against most Candida spp at concentration of less than 1-2 mg/I. Caspofungin demonstrated potent activity against Aspergillus spp. Caspofungin was recently approved for use in the treatment of invasive aspergillosis in patients who are refractory to or intolerant of other therapies.