Role of Antifungal Prophylaxis in Asymptomatic Patients

October 10, 2012 9:00am ET

At this time, CDC does not recommend initiation of antifungal prophylaxis in exposed patients who are asymptomatic. These patients should be closely monitored for development of symptoms, with a low threshold for performing lumbar puncture should the patient become symptomatic.
In addition, CDC does not recommend empiric antifungal therapy for symptomatic patients who have normal cerebrospinal fluid laboratory examination. These patients should be closely monitored and re-evaluated should their symptoms worsen. Should the patient have progression of symptoms, a lumbar puncture should be repeated immediately.