Combination antifungal therapy of murine aspergillosis: liposomal amphotericin B and micafungin.

OBJECTIVES

AmBisome and micafungin were used alone and in combination in a series of studies designed to identify any additive or antagonistic effects of combination antifungal therapy.

METHODS

Immune-suppressed mice were infected either intravenously or intranasally with Aspergillus fumigatus. Micafungin, liposomal amphotericin B or both drugs together were administered for 7 days. Parameters of efficacy included survival and tissue burden of A. fumigatus.

RESULTS

Whilst each drug was effective in murine aspergillosis, additive effects were observed only in reduction of tissue burden in limited experimental conditions. No antagonism was seen.

CONCLUSIONS

The present studies neither encourage nor discourage clinical use of combination therapy. Clinical trials are suggested before combined therapy is routinely adopted.