What type of fungal infections are echinocandins most effective against?

Echinocandins are a class of antifungal agents that are particularly effective against yeast infections, especially those caused by Candida species. They work by inhibiting the synthesis of glucan, an essential component of the fungal cell wall, which ultimately leads to cell lysis and death in susceptible fungi. This mechanism is particularly pertinent for yeast, as they rely on glucan for maintaining structural integrity.

While echinocandins can exhibit activity against some molds and have limited use against certain other fungal infections, their primary indication remains the treatment of invasive candidiasis and esophageal candidiasis. They are not typically the first line of defense against superficial skin infections, which may be better treated with other antifungals. Furthermore, echinocandins do not have broad-spectrum efficacy against all types of fungal infections, including dermatophytes or certain mold infections, making the focus on yeast infections appropriate in this context.