Prevalence and antifungal susceptibility profiles of Candida isolates among patients with candiduria: a multiplex PCR assay

Summary

Researchers studied fungal infections in urine samples from hospitalized patients and found that while the common yeast Candida albicans was most prevalent, other Candida species were increasingly resistant to antifungal medications. Using advanced genetic testing methods, they identified seven different Candida species and tested their resistance to three common antifungal drugs. The findings highlight the growing problem of drug-resistant fungal infections and the need for better diagnostic tools to identify which species is causing infection so appropriate treatment can be selected.

Background

Candiduria caused by Candida species is increasing with rising cases of antifungal-resistant non-albicans Candida (NAC) species. Accurate species identification and antifungal susceptibility assessment are crucial for appropriate treatment selection. This study aimed to evaluate both prevalence and antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida isolates from candiduria patients.

Objective

To assess the prevalence and antifungal susceptibility profiles of Candida isolates from patients with candiduria using a 21-plex PCR assay and broth microdilution method.

Results

Candida albicans was predominant at 70%, followed by C. tropicalis (11%), C. glabrata (9%), and C. parapsilosis (5%). Fluconazole resistance was found in 2.86% of C. albicans isolates versus 29.41% of NAC species. NAC species showed higher resistance rates to antifungal agents compared to C. albicans.

Conclusion

While C. albicans remains the predominant cause of candiduria, NAC species demonstrate significantly higher resistance to fluconazole. The multiplex PCR system successfully identified candiduria agents, and continued surveillance with advanced methodologies is recommended to address the emerging antifungal resistance challenge.
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