In vitro activity of amphotericin B, itraconazole, terbinafine and 5-fluocytosine against Exophiala spinifera and evaluation of post-antifungal effects.

Abstract

Antifungal susceptibility profiles were determined for 16 strains of the black yeast Exophiala spinifera applying different temperature regimens. Fluconazole was the least effective in vitro. Lowest minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were found with itraconazole. The activities of antifungal agents against environmental and clinical strains were similar. Post-antifungal effect (PAFE) of four drugs was determined for 11 clinical strains. PAFE was observed only for amphotericin B, with extended inhibition times seen at high drug concentrations.