Characterization of non albicans candida species and the antifungal susceptibility profile of clinical isolates

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: Antibiotics, immunodeficiencies and advances in medical practices have all contributed to increased incidence in fungal infections. In recent times Non albicans Candida species are increasingly being isolated from clinical specimens. The present study was aimed at the characterization and antifungal susceptibility of Non albicans Candida species from clinical specimens received in Microbiology Laboratory for one year from June 2015–May 2016. Materials and Methods: A total of 181 Non albicans Candida isolates were included in the study. Candida was identified from clinical samples by gram stain, culture on Saboraud’s Dextrose Agar (SDA) and germ tube test. The organisms were further speciated by cornmeal agar morphology, sugar assimilation and fermentation tests and growth on CHROM agar (Himedia). Antifungal sensitivity was performed by using disc diffusion method as per CLSI guidelines. Results: The most common isolate was Candida tropicalis (59.11%) followed by C.glabrata (28.18%), C.parapsilosis (8.83%) and C.krusei (3.88%). Highest number of isolates were from urine (74/181). Resistance to Fluconazole in clinical isolates of C.tropicalis has increased. C.krusei was the most resistant species. Conclusion: Use of CHROM agar is rapid, simple and cost effective compared to time consuming technically demanding expensive conventional methods. Antifungal susceptibility testing has to be carried out before starting therapy because of varying susceptibility pattern in different species of Candida. Keywords: Non albicans Candida species, Candidiasis, CHROM agar.