Isavuconazole for treating aspergillosis or mucormycosis in children

Isavuconazole is currently licensed for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis (IA) or invasive mucormycosis (IM) in children aged 1-17 years. IA and IM are life-threatening fungal infections, caused by moulds called Aspergillus and Mucormycetes, respectively. The mould spores can enter and infect the body through inhalation, cuts, scrapes, or wounds, as well as by eating or drinking contaminated substances. Risk factors include a compromised immune system, blood cancers, organ transplantation, high-dose steroids, medical intensive care, severe burns, and autoimmune disorders. Symptoms of IA or IM depend on which part of the body is affected and may include shortness of breath, coughing up blood, chest pain, one-sided facial swelling, vision changes, and mental changes. There are currently limited options that can be given as treatments for both IA and IM in children. There is therefore a need for treatment options that can treat both fungal infections.