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Case 4: Fluconazole-Resistant Oropharyngeal Candidiasis

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C More than 95% of Candida albicans isolates from patients with fluconazole-refractory oropharyngeal candidiasis show resistance to itraconazole (Sporanox). Fewer than 5% of patients with fluconazole-refractory oropharyngeal candidiasis will respond to itraconazole solution at a dose of 200 mg per day.

This answer is incorrect. Available data suggest more than 50% of patients with fluconazole-refractory oropharyngeal candidiasis will respond to itraconazole solution given at a dose of 100 to 200 mg/d.

A The most important risk factor identified for the development of fluconazole-resistant oropharyngeal candidiasis is the use of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for longer than 60 days.
B Fluconazole exerts its effect by inhibiting fungal cell wall synthesis. Fluconazole resistance in Candida species occurs primarily through an increase production in cell wall precursors.
D Major identified risk factors for the development of fluconazole-resistant candidiasis include low CD4 cell count and cumulative fluconazole use.

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