Fungal ocular infections, primarily keratitis and endophthalmitis, are significant causes of visual impairment worldwide. This chapter addresses the escalating threat of antifungal resistance, which complicates the management of these mycoses. Special emphasis is given to resistance mechanisms in Fusarium and allied fusarioid genera, Aspergillus, and Candida, including drug target alterations, efflux pump overexpression, and biofilm formation. The challenges associated with the limited antifungal arsenal and standardized susceptibility testing are critically examined. We highlight emerging strategies, photodynamic therapy, novel antifungal classes, drug repurposing, targeted delivery systems, host-directed interventions, and gene-editing technologies (CRISPR-based) as promising approaches for overcoming resistance, improving treatment outcomes, and safeguarding against severe, often refractory infections.

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Emerging Antifungal Resistance in Ocular Infections

  • Haroldo Cesar de Oliveira,
  • Aileen Miwa Tabuse,
  • Ana Luisa Hofling-Lima,
  • Anderson Messias Rodrigues

摘要

Fungal ocular infections, primarily keratitis and endophthalmitis, are significant causes of visual impairment worldwide. This chapter addresses the escalating threat of antifungal resistance, which complicates the management of these mycoses. Special emphasis is given to resistance mechanisms in Fusarium and allied fusarioid genera, Aspergillus, and Candida, including drug target alterations, efflux pump overexpression, and biofilm formation. The challenges associated with the limited antifungal arsenal and standardized susceptibility testing are critically examined. We highlight emerging strategies, photodynamic therapy, novel antifungal classes, drug repurposing, targeted delivery systems, host-directed interventions, and gene-editing technologies (CRISPR-based) as promising approaches for overcoming resistance, improving treatment outcomes, and safeguarding against severe, often refractory infections.