Direct Extraction of DNA from Positive Transparent Dressing and Swab to Identify Candida albicans Infection in Intertriginous Candidiasis in the Inguinal Region

Abstract

We report a case of a patient infected by Candida albicans which was identified by direct extraction of DNA from a positive transparent dressing and a swab. The patient was a 32-year-old male who complained of erosion in his inguinal region. Large patches of erythema and erosion were present in his inguinal and perianal region, with soya-bean like residue discharge. He was diagnosed with erythrasma and treated with antibiotics but his clinical condition did not improve. KOH examination furnished a positive result for candidiasis. Morphologic characteristics confirmed his infection was caused by Candida albicans. Sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1/4 polymerase chain reaction products, amplified from positive transparent dressing and cotton swab with discharge and from primary culture isolates, established the Candida albicans lineage. The patient was cured by treatment with itraconazole 200 mg twice a day orally in combination with topical wash with 2 % ketoconazole shampoo and topical use of 1 % naftifine-0.25 % ketoconazole cream.