How Do You Treat Zygomycosis?
Zygomycosis is a fungal infection caused by any member of the class Zygomycetes, especially the genus Rhizopus. Humans are continually exposed to a variety of fungi, but they usually affect only people with compromised immune systems, especially diabetics. Zygomycosis caused by Rhizopus arrhizus is acute and rapidly fatal in an infected individual with the rhinocerebral form having a mortality rate of 85 percent. Begin antifungal therapy as soon as possible. Amphotericin B is the only agent known to be effective against Zygomycetes. Side effects must be monitored carefully because of this drug’s toxicity. Use Liposomal amphotericin B derivatives. These derivatives are preferred over the parent compound amphotericin B deoxycholate because they deliver more amphotericin B with less toxicity to the kidneys. The FDA has approved three formulations: amphotericin B colloidal dispersion, amphotericin B lipid complex and liposomal amphotericin B. Administer 1 to 1.5 mg/kg intravenously over tw
