From the Research
Treatment for candidal endocarditis typically involves a combination of antifungal medications and surgical intervention, with the goal of reducing morbidity and mortality. The most effective treatment approach is often a medical and surgical combined approach, as highlighted in the study by 1. Key considerations in the treatment of candidal endocarditis include:
- The use of antifungal agents such as amphotericin B, echinocandins, or fluconazole, with the choice of agent depending on the specific circumstances of the patient and the severity of the infection.
- The potential need for surgical intervention, such as valve replacement, to remove the source of the infection and prevent further complications.
- The importance of addressing underlying factors that may have contributed to the development of the infection, such as immunosuppression or the presence of prosthetic devices.
According to the study by 2, the use of echinocandin-based therapy was found to be as effective as amphotericin B-based therapy in the treatment of candidal endocarditis, despite the higher percentage of older patients and nosocomial infection in the echinocandin group. Additionally, the study by 3 found that fluconazole-containing combination antifungal therapy, with or without concomitant valve replacement, and followed by prolonged fluconazole suppression, was effective in patients with candidal endocarditis. Overall, the treatment of candidal endocarditis requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the specific needs and circumstances of the patient, and is guided by the most recent and highest quality evidence available, such as the study by 1.