Role of nebulized amphotericin B in the management of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in cystic fibrosis: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Objectives:

To review the data available in literature about nebulized amphotericin B (AMB) in the treatment of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in cystic fibrosis (CF) and to report our experience in the use of this drug, with a particular therapeutic scheme.

Case Report:

We used nebulized liposomal amphotericin B (L-AMB) in a patient affected by CF, complicated by ABPA. The previous combined treatment with oral steroids and azoles had no respiratory benefit and caused relevant side effects. Amphotericin B has always been well tolerated and permitted a slight steroid tapering. We also observed benefits in pulmonary function and laboratory tests.

Conclusions:

Few data are available in literature about the use of nebulized AMB in CF and there are no RCTs evaluating antifungals in CF-ABPA. In our opinion, the reported case suggests that nebulized L-AMB could represent a possible strategy in ABPA management in CF patients.

Keywords:

• Amphotericin B
• Cystic fibrosis
• Antifungal therapy
• Aspergillosis
• Azole antifungals