Voriconazole: The Newest Triazole Antifungal Agent

ungal infections remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality despite advances in medicine and the emergence of new antifungal agents (1). Immunocompromised patients are particularly at risk of developing these infections, with Candida and Aspergillus spp. being the mycoses most commonly identified (2). Patients who develop candidemia have a greater chance of prolonged hospitalization and have a mortality rate as high as 60%. In addition, the prevalence of Candida spp. that are resistant to triazole antifungal agents is increasing, making treatment options a concern. Aspergillosis carries a 100% mortality rate if left untreated (3). Although there are numerous treatment options, no broad-spectrum antifungal agents with an acceptable safety profile and with both intravenous and oral formulations are available at this time.