A simple and reliable assimilation test for the identification of candida species.

Abstract

A relatively simple, reliable, and easily readable assimilation test is described. The usefulness of assimilation vs. fermentation patterns for identification was determined for the seven strains of Candida most frequently isolated from clinical specimens. C. albicans, C. stellatoidea, C. krusei, and C. guilliermondii could be identified easily by means of the assimilation test alone. C. albicans and C. parakrusei had identical assimilation patterns and required either chlamydospore production or fermentation tests for differentiation. C. tropicalis could be identified readily by sugar fermentation alone. The ability to assimilate cellobiose is peculiar to the latter species, but is not found in all strains.