Micafungin in pediatrics: when one size does not fit all

Abstract

Micafungin is one of three FDA-approved echinocandins, a novel class of antifungal agents that target 1,3-β-D-glucan in the fungal cell wall. Its spectrum of activity and favorable safety profile have made it an attractive option in the treatment of invasive Candida and Aspergillus infections. Since its approval in 2005 in the US, a variety of studies describing micafungin's use in the pediatric population have been published. As with many drugs, the pharmacokinetic profiles observed in the pediatric population differ from those seen in adult studies. A thorough understanding of the unique characteristics of this drug in the pediatric population is essential in order to optimize treatment outcomes for this diverse population of patients.

Keywords::

• antifungals
• aspergillus
• candidemia
• echinocandin
• fungal infections
• micafungin
• pediatric
• pharmacodynamics
• pharmacokinetics