ABSTRACT
This chapter details the history of antifungal treatments from the use of early modalities, including radiation therapy, and the application of topical inorganic salts, such as potassium iodide, to the advent of novel potential treatments based on host and pathogen immunomodulation. The discovery and development of modern-day medically important antifungals, including griseofulvin, polyenes, nystatin, azole antifungals, and echinocandins, are described. The history of topical antifungals for treatment of candidiasis and dermatophytosis is discussed. The pioneering scientists and mycologists who were instrumental in developing new therapies effective against medically important fungal disease are credited with their important contributions to building the repertoire of antifungal therapies used today.
