Fungal Drug Resistance addresses the growing crisis of antifungal resistance, a significant threat to global health. The book explores how fungi develop resistance at the molecular level and the clinical consequences, such as increased treatment failures and mortality rates. It also investigates innovative strategies to combat resistance, highlighting the urgent need for new drug development and alternative therapeutic interventions. Understanding the genetics and mechanisms behind resistance is crucial, as is recognizing the real-world impact on patient outcomes. This comprehensive work examines the fundamental principles of fungal biology and antifungal pharmacology, then progresses to the molecular mechanisms of resistance, including genetic mutations and biofilm formation. Later chapters focus on the clinical implications, epidemiology, diagnostics, and treatment strategies. The book uniquely combines molecular insights with clinical realities, offering a holistic view of the challenges and potential solutions.
The book is structured to provide a thorough understanding of the subject, starting with basic principles and moving towards complex therapeutic approaches. It bridges microbiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine to provide insights for researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals. It emphasizes the importance of coordinated action to safeguard the efficacy of existing antifungals and develop novel strategies, such as immunotherapies, to combat resistant strains.