[A retrospective study of amphotericin B treatment for invasive fungal infection].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety, efficacy and economics of amphotericin B for the treatment of deep fungal infection.

METHODS

Retrospectively analyze the data from 113 cases with invasive fungal infection, who were treated with amphotericin B.

RESULTS

The total efficacy of amphotericin B is above 76%. The incidence of hypokalemia, creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) elevation were 33.6%, 29.0% and 27.4%, respectively. The instant side effect such as fever and etc. was seen in 15.0%. No dead cases and irreversible renal function impairment could be attributed to amphotericin B. The incidence of allergic reaction and other instant reaction declined after amphotericin B manufacture techniques improved. For standard recommended duration from major guidelines, such as infective endocarditis, osteomyelitis and meningitis, the management with amphotericin B should last at least 12 weeks. The cost for treatment with different agents, such as amphotericin B, fluconazole, itraconazole, liposomal amphotericin B (LamB), voriconazole and caspofungin acetate were RMB 4600, 38,000, 99,100, 190,000, 250,000 and 270,000 yuan, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Amphotericin B is still the most effective agent for anti-fungal treatment. The incidence of allergic reaction and other instant reaction declined after amphotericin B manufacture techniques improved. Most patients can finish the treatment and be cured. Among all the anti-fungal agents, amphotericin B is still the most cost-effective medicine, especially for the patients who need long time treatment.