[Echinocandins in children]

Abstract

Echinocandins are a new class of antifungal agents with a specific mechanism of action. These drugs inhibit the enzyme 1,3β-D-glucan synthetase which is responsible for the formation of 1,3β-D-glucan, an essential fungal cell wall component. They have a good activity against Candida species and Aspergillus. Three agents are available at the present time or under development : caspofungin, micafungin and anidulafungin. These drugs require intravenous administration. Efficacy, safety, rare drugs interactions and specificity of action are advantages for therapy of invasive fungal infections. In France, micafungin and caspofungin are approved for a pediatric use.