Role of Antifungal Prophylaxis in Asymptomatic Patients

October 14, 2012 7:30 PM EDT

Antifungal prophylaxis for patients who received epidural injections with potentially contaminated steroid products

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. When diagnostic lumbar punctures are performed, they should be done through a site other than the site used for epidural injection when possible.

Antifungal prophylaxis for patients who received intra-articular injections with potentially contaminated steroid products

At this time, CDC does not recommend initiation of antifungal prophylaxis in exposed patients who are asymptomatic or have no change in baseline joint symptoms. These patients should be closely monitored for development of symptoms or for changes in, or worsening of, baseline symptoms, with a low threshold for performing diagnostic evaluation should the patient become symptomatic or experience changes in, or worsening of, baseline symptoms.