Comparative In Vitro Antifungal Susceptibility Activity of Amphotericin B and Amphotericin B Methyl Ester for Candida albicans Endophthalmitis Isolates

Abstract

Purpose: : To compare in vitro susceptibility of amphotericin B and amphotericin B methyl ester (a more soluble and less toxic formula of amphotericin B) against Candida albicans isolates recovered from endophthalmitis

Methods: : The in vitro susceptibility of amphotericin B and amphotericin B methyl ester were determined and compared for Candida albicans isolates recovered from endophthalmitis (N =10) and Candida albicans ATCC reference strain 90028 using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute M27-A2 (NCCLS/CLSI) broth dilution method. All isolates were obtained from anterior chamber or vitreous humor within the last 5 years

Results: : The MICs of amphotericin B methyl ester were equal or superior to amphotericin B in most isolates (7 of 10 isolates). MIC₉₀ value of both drugs were equal (1 µg/ml); however, the range of amphotericin B methyl ester (0.125-1 µg/ml) was slightly superior to amphotericin B (0.5-1 µg/ml). The MIC of quality control strain (ATCC^® 90028) was within an acceptable range

Conclusions: : Amphotericin B methyl ester was equal or superior against Candida albicans compared to amphotericin B in vitro. This formula may offer a more efficient and less toxic for the treatment of ocular mycoses

Keywords: antibiotics/antifungals/antiparasitics • fungal disease • vitreous