fungal infections

(American Society for Microbiology) A new edition of the definitive practical resource for laboratory identification of fungal infections is now available.

The fully revised "Medically Important Fungi: A Guide to Identification, 5th Edition," published by ASM Press, offers step-by-step guidance and textual descriptions that allow both novice and experienced lab technologists to accurately distinguish between fungi that display similar characteristics.

WASHINGTON (MedPage Today) -- The FDA has ordered new labeling for fluconazole (Diflucan), warning that multiple, high doses of the antifungal by pregnant women may increase the risk of birth defects.

(American Thoracic Society) The American Thoracic Society has released a new official clinical policy statement on the treatment of fungal infections in adult pulmonary and critical care patients.

The statement replaces ATS guidelines published in 1988, and takes into account new medications and treatment approaches, as well as provides an overview of emerging fungi.

(University of Montreal) A team of scientists from the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer of the University of Montreal have identified vitamin B3 as a potential antifungal treatment.

WASHINGTON -- The Food and Drug Administration ordered stronger warnings Thursday on four medications widely used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other serious illnesses, saying they can raise the risk of possibly fatal fungal infections.