Effectiveness of redcore lotion in patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis: a systematic review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To summarize and evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Redcore lotion on treating vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) using a systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in five English and three Chinese electronic databases up to October 2019. Randomized controlled trials in the treatment for VVC were included; only studies which compared the effectiveness and safety of Redcore lotion plus miconazole with miconazole alone were included. Relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used in the Meta-analysis. RESULTS: Seven studies involving 768 patients suffering from VVC were identified; 468 of the patients were pregnant women (60.9%). Combination group (Redcore lotion plus miconazole) was more effective in reduCIng symptomatic episodes of VVC than miconazole alone, with respect to cure rate (RR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.09-1.57; P = 0.01), fungal culture negative rate (RR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.04-1.41; P = 0.01), and effective rate (RR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.05-1.35; P = 0.01). Subgroup analyses for pregnant women also showed that the combination group had superior outcomes with respect to VVC cure rate (RR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.16-1.88, P < 0.01), fungal culture negative rate (RR, 1.26; 95% CI; 1.09-1.47; P < 0.01), and effective rate (RR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.10-1.42; P < 0.01). Additionally, the observed risk of adverse events was lower in the combination medication group (RR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.14-0.65; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Though overall quality of individual studies was low, Redcore lotion plus miconazole can significantly improve clinical effectiveness and safety compared with miconazole alone.

Lead optimization generates selenium-containing miconazole CYP51 inhibitors with improved pharmacological profile for the treatment of fungal infections.

A series of selenium-containing miconazole derivatives were identified as potent antifungal drugs in our previous study. Representative compound A03 (MIC = 0.01 µg/mL against C.alb. 5314) proved efficacious in inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens. However, further study showed lead compound A03 exhibited potential hemolysis, significant cytotoxic effect and unfavorable metabolic stability and was therefore modified to overcome these drawbacks. In this article, the further optimization of selenium-containing miconazole derivatives resulted in the discovery of similarly potent compound B17 (MIC = 0.02 µg/mL against C.alb. 5314), exhibiting a superior pharmacological profile with decreased rate of metabolism, cytotoxic effect and hemolysis. Furthermore, compound B17 showed fungicidal activity against Candida albicans and significant effects on the treatment of resistant Candida albicans infections. Meanwhile, compound B17 not only could reduce the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway by inhibiting CYP51, but also inhibited biofilm formation. More importantly, compound B17 also shows promising in vivo efficacy after intraperitoneal injection and the PK study of compound B17 was evaluated. In addition, molecular docking studies provide a model for the interaction between the compound B17 and the CYP51 protein. Overall, we believe that these selenium-containing miconazole compounds can be further developed for the potential treatment of fungal infections.

Cutaneous candidiasis - an evidence-based review of topical and systemic treatments to inform clinical practice.

Cutaneous candidiasis is a common skin disease, and several treatments have been investigated within the last fifty years. Yet, systematic reviews are lacking, and evidence-based topical and systemic treatment strategies remain unclear. Thus, the aim of this review was to summarize efficacy and adverse effects of topical and oral therapies for cutaneous candidiasis in all age groups. Two individual researchers searched PubMed and EMBASE for 'cutaneous candidiasis' and 'cutaneous candidiasis treatment', 'intertrigo', 'diaper dermatitis' and 'cheilitis'. Searches were limited to 'English language', 'clinical trials' and 'human subjects', and prospective clinical trials published in abstracts or articles were included. In total, 149 studies were identified, of which 44 were eligible, comprising 41 studies of 19 topical therapies and four studies of three systemic therapies for cutaneous candidiasis. Topical therapies were investigated in infants, children, adolescents, adults and elderly, while studies of systemic therapies were limited to adolescents and adults. Clotrimazole, nystatin and miconazole were the most studied topical drugs and demonstrated similar efficacy with complete cure rates of 73%-100%. Single-drug therapy was as effective as combinations of antifungal, antibacterial and topical corticosteroid. Four studies investigated systemic therapy, and oral fluconazole demonstrated similar efficacy to oral ketoconazole and topical clotrimazole. Limitations to this review were mainly that heterogeneity of studies hindered meta-analyses. In conclusions, clotrimazole, nystatin and miconazole were the most studied topical drugs and demonstrated equal good efficacy and mild adverse effects similar to combinations of antifungal, antibacterial and topical corticosteroids. Oral fluconazole was as effective as topical clotrimazole and is the only commercially available evidence-based option for systemic treatment of cutaneous candidiasis.

Therapeutic tools for oral candidiasis: Current and new antifungal drugs.

BACKGROUND: Candidiasis is one of the most common opportunistic oral infections that presents different acute and chronic clinical presentations with diverse diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. The present study carries out a bibliographic review on the therapeutic tools available against oral candidiasis and their usefulness in each clinical situation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Recent studies on treatment of oral candidiasis were retrieved from PubMed and Cochrane Library. RESULTS: Nystatin and miconazole are the most commonly used topical antifungal drugs. Both antifungal drugs are very effective but need a long time of use to eradicate the infection. The pharmacological presentations of miconazole are more comfortable for patients but this drug may interact with other drugs and this fact should be assessed before use. Other topical alternatives for oral candidiasis, such as amphotericin B or clotrimazole, are not available in many countries. Oral fluconazole is effective in treating oral candidiasis that does not respond to topical treatment. Other systemic treatment alternatives, oral or intravenous, less used are itraconazole, voriconazole or posaconazole. Available novelties include echinocandins (anidulafungin, caspofungin) and isavuconazole. Echinocandins can only be used intravenously. Isavuconazole is available for oral and intravenous use. Other hopeful alternatives are new drugs, such as ibrexafungerp, or the use of antibodies, cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. CONCLUSIONS: Nystatin, miconazole, and fluconazole are very effective for treating oral candidiasis. There are systemic alternatives for treating recalcitrant infections, such as the new triazoles, echinocandins, or lipidic presentations of amphotericin B.

Development, characterization, and in vitro-in vivo evaluation of polymeric nanoparticles containing miconazole and farnesol for treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is caused mainly by the opportunistic fungus Candida albicans, and its yeast to hyphae transition is considered a major virulence factor. Farnesol is a molecule that inhibits yeast to hyphae transition. The increased incidence of VVC has influenced a need for developing new therapeutic strategies. The objective was to develop a mucoadhesive nanostructured system composed of miconazole and farnesol co-encapsulated within chitosan nanoparticles. The miconazole presented a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1 µg/ml against C. albicans. The farnesol was capable of inhibiting yeast to hyphae transition at levels greater or equal to 300 µM. The combination of miconazole and farnesol showed no change in miconazole MIC. Chitosan nanoparticles containing miconazole and farnesol were prepared by ionic gelation and showed favorable characteristics for use on mucous membranes. They showed size variation and polydispersion index (PDI) after 30 days, but the efficiency of drug encapsulation was maintained. Regarding toxicity in cultured fibroblasts (BALB/c 3T3) the nanoparticles were considered nontoxic. The nanoparticles showed antifungal activity against the C. albicans strain used with MICs of 2.5 µg/ml and 2 µg/ml for nanoparticles containing miconazole or miconazole/farnesol, respectively. Nanoparticles containing farnesol inhibited yeast to hyphae transition at concentrations greater than or equal to 240 µM. The in vivo antifungal activity was assessed in the murine model for VVC. The results suggested that chitosan nanoparticles containing miconazole and farnesol were effective at inhibiting fungal proliferation. Additionally, chitosan nanoparticles containing farnesol were capable of decreasing the pathogenicity of infection, demonstrated through the absence of inflammation.

Effects of miconazole/clotrimazole and praziquantel combinations against the liver fluke Opisthorchis felineus in vivo and in vitro.

The liver fluke Opisthorchis felineus (Rivolta, 1884) is the causative agent of opisthorchiasis felinea in Eurasia. Opisthorchiasis is a serious human and fish-eating animal's disease affecting bile ducts and the gall bladder. Currently, the main drug for specific therapy of opisthorchiasis is praziquantel. We have previously shown that azole inhibitors of O. felineus cytochrome P450 significantly reduced survival of the worms in vitro. Here, we studied in vitro anthelmintic effects of drug combinations involving azole substances approved by the US Food and Drug Administration together with praziquantel against adult or juvenile O. felineus liver flukes. A synergistic interaction was shown for praziquantel-clotrimazole (CI = 0.68) combination and for praziquantel-miconazole (CI = 0.68) combination against adult helminths in vitro. Praziquantel-miconazole (CI = 0.30) had a strongly synergistic effect against newly excysted metacercariae. We also tested anthelmintic effects of azole substances and their combinations with praziquantel in vivo in an animal model of chemotherapy. The treatment of juvenile worms (1 day postinfection) with 100 mg/kg miconazole resulted in a worm burden reduction (WBR) of 37.5% (P = 0.049), with 100 mg/kg clotrimazole causing a WBR of 31.25% (P = 0.025). The treatment of adult worms (5-6 weeks postinfection) with 100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg miconazole yielded a WBR of 23.8% (P = 0.01) and 21.4% (P = 0.006), respectively. When praziquantel was administered together with clotrimazole or with miconazole, a WBR slightly greater than the effect of ED50 praziquantel was observed (WBR of 59.5 and 54.7%, respectively).In conclusion, the synergistic effect of the praziquantel-clotrimazole and praziquantel-miconazole combinations observed in vitro was not confirmed in vivo. Thus, this combination chemotherapy revealed no benefits over praziquantel monotherapy in the treatment of opisthorchiasis felinea.

Vaginal antimycotics and the risk for spontaneous abortions.

BACKGROUND: Spontaneous abortions are the most common complication of pregnancy. Clotrimazole and miconazole are widely used vaginal-antimycotic agents used for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. A previous study has suggested an increased risk of miscarriage associated with these azoles, which may lead health professionals to refrain from their use even if clinically indicated. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the current study was to assess the risk for spontaneous abortions following first trimester exposure to vaginal antimycotics. STUDY DESIGN: A historical cohort study was conducted including all clinically apparent pregnancies that began from January 2003 through December 2009 and admitted for birth or spontaneous abortion at Soroka Medical Center, Clalit Health Services, Beer-Sheva, Israel. A computerized database of medication dispensation was linked with 2 computerized databases containing information on births and spontaneous abortions. Time-varying Cox regression models were constructed adjusting for mother's age, diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, obesity, hypercoagulable or inflammatory conditions, recurrent miscarriages, intrauterine contraceptive device, ethnicity, tobacco use, and the year of admission. RESULTS: A total of 65,457 pregnancies were included in the study: 58,949 (90.1%) ended with birth and 6508 (9.9%) with a spontaneous abortion. Overall, 3246 (5%) pregnancies were exposed to vaginal antimycotic medications until the 20th gestational week: 2712 (4.2%) were exposed to clotrimazole and 633 (1%) to miconazole. Exposure to vaginal antimycotics was not associated with spontaneous abortions as a group (crude hazard ratio, 1.11; 95% confidence interval, 0.96-1.29; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.11; 95% confidence interval, 0.96-1.29) and specifically for clotrimazole (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 0.89-1.25) and miconazole (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.34; 95% confidence interval, 0.99-1.80). Furthermore, no association was found between categories of dosage of vaginal antimycotics and spontaneous abortions. CONCLUSION: Exposure to vaginal antimycotics was not associated with spontaneous abortions.

Tratamiento del liquen plano oral. Revisión sistemática y protocolo de actuación / Treatment of oral lichen planus. Systematic review and therapeutic guide

En la presente revisión sistemática se analizaron 55 artículos estructurados sobre la eficacia terapéutica frente al dolor y a los signos clínicos del liquen plano oral (LPO). La búsqueda bibliográfica se elaboró siguiendo los criterios del sistema PRISMA, seleccionando los ensayos realizados mediante alguno de los siguientes diseños metodológicos: entre fármaco (principio activo) vs. mismo fármaco en diferente excipiente o concentración, fármaco vs. diferente principio activo, fármaco vs. fitoterapia y fármaco vs. tratamiento con fototerapia. Basándonos en los resultados se propone un algoritmo que sirva de guía para establecer el tratamiento del LPO en sus formas clínicas atrófica y erosiva. Se destaca el empleo del propionato de clobetasol al 0,025-0,05% de aplicación tópica como primera alternativa terapéutica. En segundo lugar, el tacrolimús al 0,1% y pimecrolimús al 1% también formulado para su pauta tópica. Y, finalmente, se aborda el empleo de corticosteroide sistémico y la aplicación de láser de diodo (AU)

In this systematic review, 55 structured articles on the therapeutic efficacy against pain and clinical signs of oral lichen planus (OLP) were analysed. The literature search was developed according to the criteria of the PRISMA system, selecting the tests performed using one of the following methodological designs: drug (active ingredient) vs. drug in different excipient or concentration, drug vs. different active principle, drug vs. phytotherapy and drug vs. treatment with phototherapy. Based on the results, an algorithm is proposed to guide the treatment of OLP in its atrophic and erosive clinical forms. The use of clobetasol propionate at 0.025-0.05% of topical application as the first therapeutic alternative is highlighted. Secondly, 0.1% tacrolimus and 1% pimecrolimus also formulated for its topical regimen. And finally, we address the use of systemic corticosteroids and the application of diode lasers (AU)

Preventive effects of topical washing with miconazole nitrate-containing soap to diaper candidiasis in hospitalized elderly patients: A prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

The objective of the present randomized, double-blind trial was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of daily washing with miconazole nitrate-containing soap for candidiasis at diaper-covered sites in elderly subjects under long-term inpatient care. To confirm the onset and disappearance of candidiasis, we microscopically evaluated the existence of the pseudohyphae and/or blastoconidia of Candida spp. We enrolled 75 elderly patients who wore diapers all day in the hospital or nursing home. Patients were randomly assigned to receive treatment with either miconazole soap or miconazole-free placebo soap, and 28 patients in the miconazole group and 27 patients in the placebo group were followed for 4 weeks. Although washing with miconazole soap did not affect the frequency of pseudohyphae/blastoconidia-positive patients, it significantly inhibited the positive conversion of pseudohyphae/blastoconidia compared with the placebo group. As a result, the frequency of patients positive for pseudohyphae/blastoconidia was significantly lower in the miconazole group than in the control group at 4 weeks (17.9% vs 44.4%). Clinically apparent diaper candidiasis did not develop in either group. Washing with miconazole soap was a significant independent factor for reducing the cases positive for pseudohyphae/blastoconidia, while diarrhea and heart failure were significant factors associated with an increase in the positive rate at the end-point. Severe adverse effects were not found in any patients. Thus, washing with miconazole soap is well-tolerated and can inhibit the positive conversion of Candida in patients wearing diapers. Therefore, maintenance of genital hygiene using this soap may prophylactically decrease the overall prevalence of patients with diaper candidiasis.

Miconazole protects blood vessels from MMP9-dependent rupture and hemorrhage.

Hemorrhagic stroke accounts for 10-15% of all strokes and is strongly associated with mortality and morbidity worldwide, but its prevention and therapeutic interventions remain a major challenge. Here, we report the identification of miconazole as a hemorrhagic suppressor by a small-molecule screen in zebrafish. We found that a hypomorphic mutant fn40a, one of several known ß-pix mutant alleles in zebrafish, had the major symptoms of brain hemorrhage, vessel rupture and inflammation as those in hemorrhagic stroke patients. A small-molecule screen with mutant embryos identified the anti-fungal drug miconazole as a potent hemorrhagic suppressor. Miconazole inhibited both brain hemorrhages in zebrafish and mesenteric hemorrhages in rats by decreasing matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9)-dependent vessel rupture. Mechanistically, miconazole downregulated the levels of pErk and Mmp9 to protect vascular integrity in fn40a mutants. Therefore, our findings demonstrate that miconazole protects blood vessels from hemorrhages by downregulating the pERK-MMP9 axis from zebrafish to mammals and shed light on the potential of phenotype-based screens in zebrafish for the discovery of new drug candidates and chemical probes for hemorrhagic stroke.

Open-field study comparing an essential oil-based shampoo with miconazole/chlorhexidine for haircoat disinfection in cats with spontaneous microsporiasis.

Objectives The goal of the present study was to compare the antifungal efficacy of an essential oil (EO) shampoo proven to be effective against Microsporum canis with miconazole/chlorhexidine for topical haircoat disinfection in cats treated concurrently with oral itraconazole. Methods Cats received treatment with oral itraconazole (Itrafungol) at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day pulse administration for 1 week, every 2 weeks for at least 6 weeks and were washed twice a week with a neutral shampoo with added EOs of Thymus serpyllum (2%), Origanum vulgare and Rosmarinus officinalis (5% each) for the period of systemic treatment. This protocol was compared with a conventional treatment (oral itraconazole + 2% miconazole/2% chlorhexidine shampoo). Results The treatment was well tolerated and adverse effects were not recorded. All cats were clinically negative at week 11. With respect to animals with extensive lesions, the speed of resolution was higher in cats with focal lesions. The animals showing diffuse lesions required more than a course of treatment to achieve a mycological cure. There was no significant difference between the number of weeks to obtain mycological cure for cats treated with EOs and animals treated conventionally. Conclusions and relevance The treatment appeared to be effective and well appreciated by the owners. The use of shampoo with the added EOs of T serpyllum, O vulgare and R officinalis would seem an interesting, natural alternative to conventional topical treatment.

Onychomycosis in diabetic patients in Fako Division of Cameroon: prevalence, causative agents, associated factors and antifungal sensitivity patterns.

BACKGROUND: Onychomycosis is an infection of the nail unit by a fungus. This is a very common infection amongst diabetics. Its occurrence among diabetics in Fako division is unknown. In this study we provide information on the characteristics of onychomycosis in diabetics in Fako division, Cameroon. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive and analytical hospital-based study was conducted in two diabetic clinics in the Buea and Limbe regional hospitals. We recruited 152 consenting diabetics into the study. Demographic, behavioural, and clinical data of patients were obtained through the use of structured questionnaires. Toenail, finger nail, skin scrapings and nail clippings were collected from participants, KOH mounts were prepared and observed under the microscope and cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar supplemented with chloramphenicol to isolate causative fungi. Identification of isolates was done to species level using the cello tape flag method and slide culture. The presence of a dermatophyte by either microscopy or culture or both methods was considered positive for onychomycosis. Antifungal susceptibility testing was carried out using selected antifungals by the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar. RESULTS: Clinical onychomycosis was found in 77 of the 152 diabetics tested giving a prevalence of 50.7% (95% CI 42.4-58.9) in diabetics in Fako. No socio-demographic or clinical factor studied was significantly associated with onychomycosis. Trichophyton rubrum was the most common isolate (62%). Other isolates included Trichophyton metagraphyte (22%) and Trichophyton tonsurans (16%). Dermatophytes were sensitive to miconazole (66%), amphotericin B (19%) and ketoconazole (14%). CONCLUSION: Onychomycosis is common in diabetics in Fako signifying the need for regular screening by either microscopy or culture. Infected nails could be treated with miconazole.

Subcutaneous Infection Associated with Trichosporon ovoides: A Case Report and Review of Literature.

Trichosporon species are opportunistic yeasts which can cause infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. This is a report of Trichosporon ovoides that caused subcutaneous infection in a patient with underlying ischemic heart disease. The identification of fungal isolate was confirmed by PCR sequencing of ITS and large subunit regions in rRNA gene. In vitro susceptibility study showed that the isolate was susceptible to amphotericin B, fluconazole and voriconazole, and resistant to caspofungin, anidulafungin and itraconazole. The lesion improved after treatment with oral fluconazole and topical miconazole.

Topical antifungals for seborrhoeic dermatitis.

BACKGROUND: Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is distributed worldwide. It commonly affects the scalp, face and flexures of the body. Treatment options include antifungal drugs, steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, keratolytic agents and phototherapy. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of antifungal agents for seborrhoeic dermatitis of the face and scalp in adolescents and adults.A secondary objective is to assess whether the same interventions are effective in the management of seborrhoeic dermatitis in patients with HIV/AIDS. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the following databases up to December 2014: the Cochrane Skin Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (2014, Issue 11), MEDLINE (from 1946), EMBASE (from 1974) and Latin American Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) (from 1982). We also searched trials registries and checked the bibliographies of published studies for further trials. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials of topical antifungals used for treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis in adolescents and adults, with primary outcome measures of complete clearance of symptoms and improved quality of life. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Review author pairs independently assessed eligibility for inclusion, extracted study data and assessed risk of bias of included studies. We performed fixed-effect meta-analysis for studies with low statistical heterogeneity and used a random-effects model when heterogeneity was high. MAIN RESULTS: We included 51 studies with 9052 participants. Of these, 45 trials assessed treatment outcomes at five weeks or less after commencement of treatment, and six trials assessed outcomes over a longer time frame. We believe that 24 trials had some form of conflict of interest, such as funding by pharmaceutical companies.Among the included studies were 12 ketoconazole trials (N = 3253), 11 ciclopirox trials (N = 3029), two lithium trials (N = 141), two bifonazole trials (N = 136) and one clotrimazole trial (N = 126) that compared the effectiveness of these treatments versus placebo or vehicle. Nine ketoconazole trials (N = 632) and one miconazole trial (N = 47) compared these treatments versus steroids. Fourteen studies (N = 1541) compared one antifungal versus another or compared different doses or schedules of administration of the same agent versus one another. KetoconazoleTopical ketoconazole 2% treatment showed a 31% lower risk of failed clearance of rashes compared with placebo (risk ratio (RR) 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.59 to 0.81, eight studies, low-quality evidence) at four weeks of follow-up, but the effect on side effects was uncertain because evidence was of very low quality (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.64, six studies); heterogeneity between studies was substantial (I² = 74%). The median proportion of those who did not have clearance in the placebo groups was 69%.Ketoconazole treatment resulted in a remission rate similar to that of steroids (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.44, six studies, low-quality evidence), but occurrence of side effects was 44% lower in the ketoconazole group than in the steroid group (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.96, eight studies, moderate-quality evidence).Ketoconozale yielded a similar remission failure rate as ciclopirox (RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.26, three studies, low-quality evidence). Most comparisons between ketoconazole and other antifungals were based on single studies that showed comparability of treatment effects. CiclopiroxCiclopirox 1% led to a lower failed remission rate than placebo at four weeks of follow-up (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.94, eight studies, moderate-quality evidence) with similar rates of side effects (RR 0.9, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.11, four studies, moderate-quality evidence). Other antifungalsClotrimazole and miconazole efficacies were comparable with those of steroids on short-term assessment in single studies.Treatment effects on individual symptoms were less clear and were inconsistent, possibly because of difficulties encountered in measuring these symptoms.Evidence was insufficient to conclude that dose or mode of delivery influenced treatment outcome. Only one study reported on treatment compliance. No study assessed quality of life. One study assessed the maximum rash-free period but provided insufficient data for analysis. One small study in patients with HIV compared the effect of lithium versus placebo on seborrhoeic dermatitis of the face, but treatment outcomes were similar. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Ketoconazole and ciclopirox are more effective than placebo, but limited evidence suggests that either of these agents is more effective than any other agent within the same class. Very few studies have assessed symptom clearance for longer periods than four weeks. Ketoconazole produced findings similar to those of steroids, but side effects were fewer. Treatment effect on overall quality of life remains unknown. Better outcome measures, studies of better quality and better reporting are all needed to improve the evidence base for antifungals for seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Susceptibility in vitro of canine methicillin-resistant and -susceptible staphylococcal isolates to fusidic acid, chlorhexidine and miconazole: opportunities for topical therapy of canine superficial pyoderma.

OBJECTIVES: Increasing multidrug resistance amongst canine pathogenic staphylococci has renewed interest in topical antibacterial therapy for skin infections in the context of responsible veterinary prescribing. We therefore determined the activity in vitro of three clinically relevant topical agents and synergism between two of them against Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Staphylococcus aureus. METHODS: The MICs of fusidic acid (n = 199), chlorhexidine (n = 198), miconazole (n = 198) and a 1:1 combination of miconazole/chlorhexidine (n = 198) were determined for canine isolates [50 MRSA and 49 methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP), 50 MSSA and 50 methicillin-susceptible S. pseudintermedius (MSSP)] collected from the UK and Germany using an agar dilution method (CLSI VET01-A4). Fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) indices were calculated to assess the interaction of miconazole with chlorhexidine. RESULTS: MICs of each drug/combination were significantly (P < 0.0005) higher for S. aureus when compared with S. pseudintermedius. Most strains (n = 172) had an MIC of fusidic acid of ≤0.03 mg/L (MIC ≥64 mg/L, n = 5 MRSA). All strains had MICs of chlorhexidine of 0.5-4 mg/L, except for one MRSA (MIC = 8 mg/L). All but four strains had MICs of miconazole of 1-4 mg/L (MIC = 16 mg/L, n = 3; MIC = 256 mg/L, n = 1). Miconazole/chlorhexidine (1:1 ratio) had a synergistic effect against 49/50 MRSA, 31/50 MSSA, 12/49 MRSP and 23/49 MSSP. CONCLUSIONS: Since the majority of these staphylococci, including methicillin-resistant isolates, had MICs that should be readily exceeded by topical skin application of these agents, their therapeutic efficacy for canine superficial pyoderma should be assessed. The synergistic interaction shown in vitro supports further clinical evaluation of miconazole/chlorhexidine combination therapy for staphylococcal infection.

Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto and the closely related species Candida orthopsilosis and Candida metapsilosis in vulvovaginal candidiasis.

This study aimed to determine the clinical characteristics and in vitro susceptibilities of Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto, Candida orthopsilosis and Candida metapsilosis isolates from patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). We analysed 63 vaginal C. parapsilosis specimens. After the molecular analyses, the isolates were characterised as C. parapsilosis sensu stricto (77.8%), C. orthopsilosis (7.9%) and C. metapsilosis (14.3%). The signs and symptoms of VVC caused by C. parapsilosis sensu lato, including itching, erythema and abnormal discharge, were milder than those caused by C. albicans. None of the C. parapsilosis sensu lato isolates were resistant to fluconazole, miconazole or itraconazole. The resistance rates of C. albicans to fluconazole, itraconazole, miconazole and clotrimazole were 2.3, 1.5, 3.1 and 0.8%, respectively. Both C. parapsilosis sensu lato and C. albicans were susceptible to nystatin. The mycological eradication rate at follow-up days 7-14 and 30-35 were 77.8% (49/63) and 76.2% (48/63), respectively, when treated with various antifungal agents and regimens. We conclude that C. parapsilosis sensu stricto and the closely related species C. orthopsilosis and C. metapsilosis were present in the vaginal samples of VVC patients. The symptoms and signs of VVC caused by C. parapsilosis are milder than those caused by C. albicans. The antifungal susceptibility and therapeutic efficacy in patients colonised by C. parapsilosis sensu lato were similar to those observed in C. albicans-colonised patients.

Evaluation of different treatment methods against denture stomatitis: a randomized clinical study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this clinical study was to determine the efficacy of Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) against denture stomatitis (DS). STUDY DESIGN: Fifty patients with DS were randomly assigned into 3 groups to receive 2% miconazole, placebo, or 2% U tomentosa gel. DS level was recorded immediately, after 1 week of treatment, and 1 week after treatment. The clinical effectiveness of each treatment was measured using Newton's criteria. Mycologic samples from palatal mucosa and prosthesis were obtained to determinate colony forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) and fungal identification at each evaluation period. RESULTS: Candida species were identified with HiCrome Candida and API 20C AUX biochemical test. DS severity decreased in all groups (P < .05). A significant reduction in number of CFU/mL after 1 week (P < .05) was observed for all groups and remained after 14 days (P > .05). C albicans was the most prevalent microorganism before treatment, followed by C tropicalis, C glabrata, and C krusei, regardless of the group and time evaluated. U tomentosa gel had the same effect as 2% miconazole gel. CONCLUSIONS: U tomentosa gel is an effective topical adjuvant treatment for denture stomatitis.

Frequency of clinically isolated strains of oral Candida species at Kagoshima University Hospital, Japan, and their susceptibility to antifungal drugs in 2006-2007 and 2012-2013.

BACKGROUND: The isolation frequency and susceptibility to antifungal agents of oral Candida isolates from patients with oral candidiasis (OC) were compared between studies conducted in 2006-2007 and 2012-2013. METHODS: A total158 strains was isolated from 112 patients who visited Kagoshima University Hospital for the treatment of OC during the 14-month period from February 2012 and March 2013, and evaluated on the isolation frequency of each Candida strain and the susceptibility against antifungal drugs as compared to those evaluated in 2006-2007. RESULTS: There was a higher frequency of xerostomia as a chief complaint and of autoimmune disease in the 2012-2013 study than in the 2006-2007 study. More than 95% of Candida isolates were C. albicans and C. glabrata. In addition, the proportion of the latter increased from 12.3% in the 2006-2007 study to 23.4% in the 2012-2013 study, while the proportion of the former decreased from 86.2% to 72.8%, respectively. C. albicans was isolated in almost all patients, while C. glabrata was only isolated concomitantly with C. albicans. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were not significantly different between groups with a few exceptions. Candida isolates, of which MICs surpassed break points, apparently increased for miconazole and itraconazole against C. glabrata in the 2012-2013 study, but this was not statistically significant. As a result, more cases of autoimmune disease, a greater number of C. glabrata isolates, and higher resistance to azoles were seen in the 2012-2013 study than in the 2006-2007 study. CONCLUSION: These data indicate that with recent increases in C. glabrata infection, a causative fungus of OC, and in C. glabrata resistance to azoles, caution is needed in the selection of antifungal drugs for the treatment of OC.

High-dose vaginal metronidazole for recurrent bacterial vaginosis--a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate high-dose intravaginal metronidazole, with or without miconazole, in enhancing cure rates in women with recurrent BV. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 43 women with symptomatic recurrent BV were enrolled in a 4-arm study comparing 500 mg versus 750 mg of metronidazole, with or without miconazole, intravaginally for 7 days. Test of cure by saline wet mount and 10% potassium chloride microscopy, pH, Gram stain for Nugent score, and yeast culture were performed 3 times after treatment: 3 to 7 days, 30 to 35 days, and 60 to 70 days. RESULTS: Overall cure rate for the entire group was 92.6% at visit 2, 62.1% at visit 3, and 51.4% at visit 4. At visit 2, there was no difference in cure rates among patients who received metronidazole 750 mg ± miconazole daily (90.5%) compared with metronidazole 500 mg ± miconazole daily (85%). At visit 3, there was a significant improvement in cure rates among patients who received metronidazole 750 mg ± miconazole daily (78.9%) compared with metronidazole 500 mg ± miconazole daily (44.4%) (p < .05). At visit 4, a significant difference in clinical cure rates persisted among patients who received metronidazole 750 mg ± miconazole daily (68.4%) compared with of metronidazole 500 mg ± miconazole daily (33.3%; p < .05). Poor responses (Nugent score > 4 or pH > 4.4) at the first visit alter treatment-predicted recurrence. The addition of miconazole did not enhance BV response rates. CONCLUSIONS: Cure rates for BV were high in this refractory cohort and seemed dose dependent.

Eficacia, tolerancia y seguridad de una combinación de metronidazol, miconazol, centella asiática, polimixina y neomicina en cápsula blanda para uso vaginal en el tratamiento de la vaginosis bacteriana / Efficacy, tolerability, and safety of a combination including metronidazole, miconazole, Gotu kola, polymixin, and neomycin in soft vaginal capsules for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis

Introducción: La vaginosis bacteriana (VB) es un síndrome polimicrobiano, en la cual la flora dominante de lactobacilos normales es sustituida por una flora polimicrobiana. La prevalencia de VB en Perú varía entre 27 y 43,7%. El Centro de Control y Prevención de Enfermedades (DCD) sugiere el tratamiento de VB en mujeres sintomáticas con metronidazol oral/gel o clindamicina crema. Se planteó en el presente estudio evaluar la eficacia, tolerancia y seguridad de la combinación de metronidazol, miconazol, centella asiática, polimixina y neomicina en cápsula blanda para el tratamiento de VB. Material y Métodos: El presente estudio de tipo abierto, observacional, prospectivo, permitió evaluar la eficacia, tolerancia y seguridad en la aplicación de la combinación de metronidazol, miconazol, centella asiática, polimixina y neomicina en cápsula blanda. Resultados: Se incluyó a 61 pacientes con edad promedio de 29.28 años (rango 18-48) de las cuales 93,4% tenía historia previa de flujo vaginal anormal. Se realizaron dos visitas durante el estudio, la primera para diagnóstico e inicio de tratamiento y la segunda de control post tratamiento. Tres pacientes no tuvieron segunda visita y 8 no tenían registrada toda la información para definir la respuesta terapéutica. La segunda visita se realizó a los 21 días en promedio. Los principales signos y síntomas en la primera visita de diagnóstico fueron flujo vaginal (100,0%), disconfort vaginal (85,2%), dispareunia (70,5%) y dolor abdominal bajo (57,4%), las cuales disminuyeron en forma significativa (p<0,05) a la segunda visita post tratamiento. La prueba de aminas resultó positiva en el 93,4% de los casos en la primera visita y en el 15,5% de los casos en la segunda visita (p<0,05). De la población inicial de estudio, solo 53 mujeres son evaluables para eficacia terapéutica...

Introduction: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a polymicrobial syndrome, in which the normal dominant flora consisting in Lactobacillus is replaced by polymicrobial flora. The prevalence of BV in Peru varies between 27 and 43.7%. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest therapy for BV in symptomatic women should include oral/gel metronidazole or clindamycin cream. We proposed in this study to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of the combination of metronidazole, miconazole, Gotu kola (Centella asiatica), polymixin, and neomycin in soft capsules, for the treatment of BV. Material and Methods: This investigation was an open, observational, and prospective study, which allowed us to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of the aforementioned combined therapy administered in soft capsules. Results: The study included 61 patients with a mean age of 29.28 years (range, 18-48) and 93.4% had a history of abnormal vaginal discharge. Two visits took place during the study, the first for making the diagnosis and initiating therapy, and the second was the post-treatment control. Three patients did not have a second visit and 8 did not record all the information required to define the therapeutic response. The second visit took place after 21 days on average. The main signs and symptoms at the first visit were vaginal discharge at diagnosis (100.0%), vaginal discomfort (85.2%), dyspareunia (70.5%) and lower abdominal pain (57.4%), which were significantly reduced (p <0.05) in the second visit after treatment. The amine test was positive in 93.4% of cases in the first visit and in 15.5% of cases in the second visit (p <0.05). From the initial population in the study, only 53 women are evaluable for efficacy. An overall response rate in 44 women (83.02%) was achieved with the soft capsule combination treatment. Adverse events were reported in only one case...