Abstract
Despite enlarged spectrum of antifungal drugs invasive fungal infection (IFI) as a proportion of morbidity and mortality in children with severe primary or secondary immunodeficiency is increasing. Candida species and Aspergillus species are the most common pathogens, but incidence of resistant and other less frequent opportunistic pathogens is increasing.
Use of several new effective antifungal drugs in children (especially neonates, infants and toddlers) is limited by lack of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data. Therefore some of these drugs are not licensed in children and dosing is not established.
Some recommendation is availab le only in children since certain age category. Inappropriate dosing may result in ineffective therapy when underdosed or excessive toxicity if overdosed.
Complex diagnostics and therapy of IFI in children is specific and requires broad team of experienced specialists with proper pediatric background.