The role of second-generation antifungal triazoles for treatment of the endemic mycoses

Endemic fungi are geographically restricted to certain areas of the United States where they are typically found in soil. They often cause asymptomatic or self-limited flu-like infections in humans. Occasionally, they cause serious human disease including acute or chronic pneumonias, or bone, skin, or central nervous system disease. Amphotericin B and first-generation triazoles are standard therapy for serious endemic fungal infections. Adverse effects, drug intolerance, and rare refractory infections may limit their use; therefore, experience is increasing using newer triazoles (voriconazole and posaconazole) to potentially circumvent these problems. This article reviews the basic scientific information and clinical experience using triazoles for treating endemic fungal infections.