Antifungal Susceptibility Patterns Research Articles

Species distribution and antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida isolated from critically ill patients with candidemia

Species distribution and antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida isolated from critically ill patients with candidemia

Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients with Urinary Tract Infection in Iran: Candida Species Distribution and Antifungal Susceptibility Patterns

Candida species, typically part of the human skin and mucous membrane flora, can cause opportunistic fungal infections, notably urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are on the rise among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The lack of understanding of UTIs in this population, coupled with the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, poses significant challenges for effective treatment and further investigations. In this study, urine samples were collected from 70 COVID-19 patients with UTIs in sterile containers for microbiology examination. After microscopic observation, the isolates were identified both by phenotypic and molecular techniques such as multiplex PCR. Antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST) against fluconazole (Flu), itraconazole (Itr), and amphotericin B (AMB) was performed according to CLSI M27/S4 standard methods, with the frequency of isolates including Candida albicans (n = 20, 51.3%), Candida tropicalis (n = 15, 38.4%), Nakaseomyces glabrata (previously Candida glabrata) (n = 2, 5.1%), Pichia kudriavzevii (previously Candida krusei), and Candida parapsilosis (n = 1, 2.5%). All isolates of C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, and C. parapsilosis were sensitive to amphotericin B, while C. kruzei was resistant to AMB. Around 70% of C. albicans isolates were sensitive to Flu; 20% of C. tropicalis were resistant to itraconazole, while 33% were resistant to fluconazole. C. albicans and C. tropicalis were the main causes of candiduria in infected cases and both Flu and AMB showed good results in AFST in these species. Performing drug susceptibility testing for clinical isolates of Candida spp. provided guidance for appropriate management and control, and timely antifungal treatment.

Candiduria: Analysis of Changing Trends and Antifungal Dynamics in Acute Healthcare Settings with Special Reference to Rare Candida Species

Background: Candiduria is a common phenomenon among hospitalized patients, particularly those in intensive care units (ICUs), wherein multiple predisposing factors such as comorbidities, indwelling urinary catheters, and antimicrobial exposure contribute to its prevalence. Objective: This study aims to investigate the epidemiological trends and antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida spp. isolated from urine samples of patients at a tertiary care center in Western Maharashtra, India. Methods: Of the 7,642 urine samples received between 01 June 2022 to 31 May 2023, 142 samples (9%) displayed the growth of Candida species. Upon retesting samples from these patients, only 70 true positive results were identified. All the isolates were detected via VITEK MS (bioMerieux, France), while antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST) was conducted using the VITEK 2 Compact with an AST-YS08 card. Results: The most common isolate was Candida tropicalis (50%), followed by Candida albicans (25.7%). Rare Candida species (e.g., Candida ciferrii, Candida kefyr, Candida metapsilosis, Candida utilis) collectively contributed to 7.1% of all Candida species. The results of the AFST revealed a high sensitivity to amphotericin B and echinocandins. Fluconazole resistance was observed in 6% of the isolates. Candida ciferrii emonstrated a distinct pattern, indicating a statistically significant association (p = 0.015) when the patient had two or more comorbidities and resistance to azoles, which was statistically significant (p-values for fluconazole (p = 0.015), voriconazole (p = 0.004), and flucytosine (p = 0.002)) when compared with other Candida species. Conclusion: Resistance trends in India have been changing with increased fluconazole-resistant Candida strains being frequently isolated, emphasizing the importance of customized therapeutic strategies based on culture and sensitivity reports.

Microbial Carriage of Shuttle Door Handles and Campus Bank’s Automated Teller Machines

Microorganisms are ubiquitous organisms that can cause microbial contamination in both indoor and outdoor settings, with frequently touched surfaces acting as environmental reservoirs that increase the ability of pathogens to be transferred from host to host. This study was aimed at isolating, identifying and characterizing bacteria and fungi present on frequently used Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and campus shuttle bus handles at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State. Swab samples were obtained from the keypads of ATMs and door handles of campus shuttle buses. Enumeration of total microbial counts was carried out using the pour plating technique. The bacterial isolates were identified using Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology based on the results obtained from microscopic examination, cultural and morphological examination and biochemical tests. Meanwhile, the fungal isolates were identified using the Atlas and Compendium of Soil Fungi, based on the results obtained from cultural and morphological examination, as well as microscopic examination. The antibiotic and antifungal susceptibility pattern of the isolated microorganisms was also determined. Results showed that the ATM keypads and shuttle door handles contained Staphylococcus aureus (8.82%), Bacillus spp. (32.35%), Proteus mirabilis (8.82%), Escherichia coli (5.88), Salmonella spp. (5.88%), Enterobacter cloacae (5.88%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (2.94%), Citrobacter freundii (2.94%), Vibrio cholerae (2.94%), Serratia marcescens (2.94%), Aspergillus spp. (5.88%), Cladosporium sp. (2.94%), Geomyces sp. (2.94%), Oidiodendron griseum robak (2.94%), Penicillium paneum (2.94%) and Fusarium culmorum (2.94%). The zone of inhibition for the bacteria and fungi isolates ranged from 4mm to 36 mm, with ciprofloxacin being the most effective antibiotic. This study shows that campus shuttles and ATMs, aside from their primary functions, could also serve as a means of transmitting both pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, which pose public health risks. Personal hygiene and sanitation, such as hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer to clean hands, could serve as a means of reducing the incidence of microbial transmission.

Epidemiology of Vaginal candidiasis and Its Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern at the Buea Regional Hospital in Cameroon

Epidemiology of Vaginal candidiasis and Its Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern at the Buea Regional Hospital in Cameroon

Identification of Yeast and Yeast-Like Fungi at a Tertiary Care Center: A Retrospective Study.

Background Fungal infections pose a significant global health challenge. Despite their substantial impact, these ubiquitous fungi can become pathogenic but have not received adequate attention in public health, leading to infections that are often underestimated by the general public and healthcare professionals. Candida species and Cryptococcus species play a key role in these infections, with emerging multidrug resistance in Candida species posing considerable challenges. This study aimed to understand the prevalence of yeast and yeast-like infections, particularly in the COVID-19 era, and to assess the antifungal susceptibility pattern. Methodology A retrospective observational study was conducted at a rural tertiary care medical college in Maharashtra, India. Retrospective records of samples processed for fungal culture were analyzed in the microbiology department. Yeast identification and antifungal susceptibility were performed using the VITEK-2 automated system. Results Among 95 fungal isolates, 86 (90.52%) were yeast isolates, primarily non-albicans Candida (NAC) species. Candida albicans accounted for 41 (47.67%) yeast isolates. In 14 isolates, NAC species were not identified by the VITEK-2 system up to the species level. Isolates from urine samples contributed the highest percentage of 61% (58) of yeast isolates. C. albicans showed high sensitivity to most antifungal agents. Other Candida species, such as Candida famata, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida guilliermondii, were sensitive to all antifungal agents. Candida auris showed complete resistance to amphotericin B and fluconazole but sensitivity to other agents. Mixed sensitivity patterns were observed in Candida ciferri and Candida lusitaniae, with some resistance to voriconazole, caspofungin, and micafungin. Conclusions This study shows the increasing prevalence of yeast and yeast-like infections, particularly NAC, during the COVID-19 era. Improved yeast identification and susceptibility testing are crucial for guiding the appropriate treatment and mitigating the impact of these infections, emphasizing the need for comprehensive future studies in this area.

Changing Paradigm of Yeast Isolates in HIV-Seropositive Patients with Oropharyngeal Candidiasis (OPC).

Background Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) is a common fungal infection in HIV-seropositive patients. Understanding the spectrum of yeast isolates and their antifungal susceptibility patterns is crucial for effective management. This study aimed to determine the yeast isolates, antifungal susceptibility patterns, and associated factors in HIV-seropositive patients with OPC. Material and methods A prospective observational study was conducted on 350 HIV-seropositive patients attending an Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC) at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS), Patna, Bihar. Yeast isolates from oropharyngeal lesions were identified, and their antifungal susceptibility was determined by automated method VITEK 2. Demographic characteristics, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) status, and CD4+ cell count categories were analyzed for associations. Results This study of 350 HIV-seropositive patients revealed that 100 tested positive forCandida, with distinct differences between HAART (n=67) and non-HAART (n=33) groups. HAART patients had a younger age distribution and higher median CD4+ cell counts (350 vs. 250 cells/mm³, U = 175, p < 0.05) compared to non-HAART patients.Candida albicanswas the most common species in both groups, but significant variations in species distribution (χ² = 9.23, p < 0.05) and antifungal susceptibility were noted. Specifically, susceptibility differences were significant for flucytosine (χ² = 7.21, p = 0.027) and voriconazole (χ² = 8.64, p = 0.013), emphasizing the influence of HAART on managing immune function and antifungal resistance in HIV patients. Conclusion This study provides insights into the spectrum of yeast isolates and their antifungal susceptibility patterns in HIV-seropositive patients with OPC. The findings emphasize the importance of considering multiple factors, such asCandida species, HAART status, and individual patient characteristics, in treatment decisions. The results will aid in the development of evidence-based management protocols for this vulnerable population. Further research is warranted to explore additional factors influencing antifungal susceptibility and optimize treatment strategies for this patient population.

A Road Less Traveled: E-test Method for Antifungal Susceptibility Testing in Trichophyton mentagrophyte Isolates Among Patients Presenting With Dermatophytosis at a Tertiary Healthcare Center in North India.

Introduction Dermatophytosis is a common infection of the skin, hair, and nails caused by dermatophytes, a group of filamentous fungi capable of digesting and obtaining nutrients from keratin. Dermatophytes comprise three important genera: Epidermophyton, Microsporum,and Trichophyton. This study aimed to analyze the antifungal susceptibility patterns of Trichophyton mentagrophytes isolates using the epsilometer test (E-test) method. Material and methods This prospective observational study was conducted on clinically suspected cases of dermatophytosis. All samples, including skin scrapings, hair, and nails, were subjected to potassium hydroxide (KOH) examination followed by fungal culture. The Trichophyton mentagrophytes isolates were then subjected to antifungal susceptibility testing using the E-test method for the two most prescribed antifungals: itraconazole and fluconazole. Results In this study, one-third of the patients who tested positive for dermatophytosis belonged to the same family, with spouses being the most commonly affected. Tinea corporis was the most common clinical presentation, with Trichophyton mentagrophytes identified as the most common etiological agent. Itraconazole was more effective than fluconazole. Conclusion The current study demonstrated that antifungal susceptibility testing of dermatophytes using the E-test is easier and can be applied in routine laboratories as a screening method, serving as an alternative to broth microdilution.

Enhanced Labor Management: Implementing WHO Recommendations in Oyo State Nursing Practice

Introduction: An increase in the incidence of Urinary tract infections due to Candida species has been observed. The higher rate of Candiduria due to Non albicans Candida is now being reported than due to Candida albicans.The emergence of drug resistance in Candida species has complicated the patient management. Aim: to observe the prevalence of Candida species in UTIs and their antifungal susceptibility pattern in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: An observational study was conducted fora period of three months in NIMS, Jaipur. Symptomatic patients belonging to all age groups were included in the study. Catheterized or clean catch midstream urine were centrifuged and the sediment was plated on Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar slants with and without Chloramphenicol. A wet mount preparation was also made and looked for the presence of pus cells, yeast cells, pseudohyphae, etc. Yeast were identified by using germ tube, Chromogenic agar, chlamydospore formation and carbohydrate assimilation tests. Antifungalsusceptibility testing was performed on Muller Hinton Methylene Blue Agar. Result: The Candida species were isolated in only 24 (4.8%) samples. Only 8 cases yielded Candida albicans(33.33%). The highest cases were found to be of Candida tropicalis (n=14) while remaining two cases has growth of Candida krusai (n=1) and Candida glabrata (n=1). Keywords: WHO guidelines, labor management, and patient care &amp; outcomes.

Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern of Fungi Isolated from Patients with Otomycosis Attending a Tertiary Health Care Institution in Sokoto, Nigeria

Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern of Fungi Isolated from Patients with Otomycosis Attending a Tertiary Health Care Institution in Sokoto, Nigeria

Prediction Model for Pregnancy Success in IVF Program in the Poor Prognosis Group

Introduction: An increase in the incidence of Urinary tract infections due to Candida species has been observed. The higher rate of Candiduria due to Non albicans Candida is now being reported than due to Candida albicans.The emergence of drug resistance in Candida species has complicated the patient management. Aim: to observe the prevalence of Candida species in UTIs and their antifungal susceptibility pattern in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: An observational study was conducted fora period of three months in NIMS, Jaipur. Symptomatic patients belonging to all age groups were included in the study. Catheterized or clean catch midstream urine were centrifuged and the sediment was plated on Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar slants with and without Chloramphenicol. A wet mount preparation was also made and looked for the presence of pus cells, yeast cells, pseudohyphae, etc. Yeast were identified by using germ tube, Chromogenic agar, chlamydospore formation and carbohydrate assimilation tests. Antifungalsusceptibility testing was performed on Muller Hinton Methylene Blue Agar. Result: The Candida species were isolated in only 24 (4.8%) samples. Only 8 cases yielded Candida albicans(33.33%). The highest cases were found to be of Candida tropicalis (n=14) while remaining two cases has growth of Candida krusai (n=1) and Candida glabrata (n=1). Keywords: Infertility, prediction model, In Vitro Fertilization, Logistic Regression, Endometrial Thickness, Poor Prognosis, Clinical Pregnancy

Identification and Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern of Candida Isolates Recovered from Urine and Blood Specimens from Patients Admitted in Wards of a Tertiary Care Hospital, North Delhi

Identification and Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern of Candida Isolates Recovered from Urine and Blood Specimens from Patients Admitted in Wards of a Tertiary Care Hospital, North Delhi

Prevalence of Candida species and their antifungal susceptibility patterns among patients in tertiary care setting Butwal, Nepal: A cross-sectional study

Background: Candida species, commonly present in the human body, can result in severe infections. Non-albicans Candida (NAC) species, with increasing antifungal resistance, pose a growing concern. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to evaluate candidiasis prevalence and antifungal susceptibility in isolated Candida species among suspected patients at tertiary care hospitals in Butwal, emphasizing early identification and appropriate treatment to avoid unnecessary use of toxic antifungal drugs. Materials and Methods: In a descriptive study on 303 patients with clinical symptoms of Candida infections, specimens underwent direct microscopic examination and culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar. Species identification involved phenotypic methods such as chromogenic character on CHROMagar Candida media, germ tube examination, and microscopic characteristics. Subsequently, isolated species were tested for antifungal susceptibility using the disc diffusion method. Results: Among the 303 samples tested, 80 (26.4%) were positive for candidal infection. NAC species were the most commonly isolated, with Candida albicans and Candida krusei being the most virulent. The isolates exhibited the highest sensitivity to fluconazole (77.5%) followed by itraconazole (75%), whereas amphotericin B showed the lowest effectiveness with 63.75% resistance. Conclusion: The rising prevalence of NAC species, particularly their growing resistance to Amphotericin B, has become a significant concern, as these species are frequently detected in various clinical samples. These findings underscore the importance of diligent monitoring and judicious selection of antifungal agents to ensure effective treatment strategies.

Epidemiology and antifungal susceptibility patterns of invasive candidiasis: A single-center study

Background: Invasive candidiasis remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of various antifungal treatments, global reports continue to highlight resistance, treatment ineffectiveness, and outbreaks. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiology of various Candida species isolated from invasive samples and assess their antifungal susceptibility profiles. Material and Methods: The study identified and evaluated a total of 200 Candida isolates, recovered over a 6-month period from various clinical specimens. These were assessed against various antifungals according to recommendations. Results: Among the samples, blood (79%) and pus (12%) were the most commonly encountered sources of Candida isolation. Candida isolates comprised 14.5% (30) C. albicans and 85.5% (170) non-albicans species. Non-albicans species included 15% (30) C. guilliermondii, 14.5% (29) C. lusitaniae, 11.5% (22) C. tropicalis, 2.3% (4) C. auris, and 8.5% (17) C. parapsilosis. Overall, the strains showed 74% and 91% sensitivity to Fluconazole and Voriconazole, respectively, and 100% sensitivity to Caspofungin and Amphotericin B, with the exception of C. lusitaniae. Conclusion: The susceptibility profile of antifungals is evolving. This study demonstrated a low rate of resistance to four antifungals in invasive candidiasis in Pakistan. None of the isolates were resistant to more than one drug. Early and prompt treatment through the implementation of an antifungal stewardship program and strict infection control is crucial. Keywords: Invasive candidiasis (IC), Antifungal susceptibility profile, Fluconazole, Candidemia

Changing Epidemiology of Clinical Isolates of Candida Species during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: Data Analysis from a Korean Tertiary Care Hospital for 6 Years (2017-2022).

This study assessed the changes in Candida species distribution and antifungal susceptibility patterns during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic compared with a pre-pandemic period in Korea. We retrospectively investigated the specimen, species type, and antifungal susceptibility of Candida isolates obtained between 2016 and 2022. Data between two periods were compared: 2016-2019 (pre-pandemic) and 2020-2022 (pandemic). We included 11,396 clinical isolates of Candida species (5137 isolates in the pre-pandemic and 6259 isolates in the pandemic). The most prevalent species was Candida albicans (50.4%), followed by Candida glabrata (22.7%), Candida tropicalis (12.5%), and Candida parapsilosis complex (12.5%). Their ranks were unchanged; however, their relative isolation ratios varied during the pandemic, exhibiting differences ranging from 0.4 to 2.5 across species. The incidence of candidemia increased during the pandemic (average 1.79 episodes per 10,000 patient days) compared with pre-pandemic levels (average 1.45 episodes per 10,000 patient days) in both intensive-care-unit (ICU) and non-ICU patients. Additionally, C. parapsilosis complex candidemia increased by 1.6-fold during the pandemic. During the pandemic, C. albicans and C. tropicalis candidemia significantly increased by 1.5- and 1.4-fold in ICU patients. In contrast, C. parapsilosis complex candidemia surged 2.1-fold in non-ICU patients. These species exhibited reduced resistance to fluconazole, voriconazole, caspofungin, and micafungin in the pandemic compared with the pre-pandemic. This study underscores the heightened incidence of Candida-related infections during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizes the importance of ongoing surveillance of Candida species epidemiology beyond the pandemic's scope.

Isolation, Characterization, and Antifungal Sensitivity Pattern of Candida Species Causing Otomycosis

Otomycosis is one of the overwhelming diseases both for patients and specialists with a high recurrence rate despite adequate and proper treatment. This study aims to investigate further the various types of fungi involved in otomycosis and test their susceptibility against common antifungals. In total, among candidiasis-suspected patients, 60 samples were incorporated into the study. PCR method was used for Candida species detection. Broth microdilution method of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute document M60 was applied to assess MIC values of rampant antifungals. We used SPSS software (version 16.0) for statistical analysis. In this survey, 20, 3, and 1 type of Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida glabrata were identified, respectively. All 20 C. albicans isolates were sensitive to amphotericin B (range 0.03-1 μg/ml), voriconazole, (0.03-1 μg/ml), and itraconazole (0.03-0.5 μg/ml.); moreover, one isolate was resistant to fluconazole. Two isolates out of three isolates of C. parapsilosis, were susceptible to all agents while the other one isolate was resistant to fluconazole. C. glabrata isolate was susceptible to all agents. In summary, the results conveyed the importance of clinicians remaining vigilant in diagnosing otomycosis due to its non-specific manifestations. To manage effectively otomycosis and avoid complications or recurrence, it is imperative to diagnose the condition at the earliest time, confirm its virulence through various tests, and identify antifungal susceptibility patterns. Despite this, relapse is often seen and achieving complete remission can prove to be a major hurdle in individuals who have had mastoidectomy and those with weakened immune systems.

A prospective observational study on species differentiation and antifungal susceptibility pattern in patients with genital candidiasis.

Candidial balanitis, balanoposthitis and vulvovaginitis can be diagnosed by direct microscopy, culture and treated with antifungals. Resistance to antifungals is emerging. Hence, we conducted a study to identify the causative species and antifungal susceptibility. To observe the species differentiation and antifungal susceptibility pattern in patients with genital candidiasis. A prospective observational study was carried out that included 54 patients of age group (18-60 years) diagnosed clinically and direct microscopically (KOH) for genital candidiasis. Culture was done using Sabouraud dextrose agar. Species identification and antifungal susceptibility were tested. Descriptive data were expressed in the form of frequency and percentage. Out of 54 patients, 41 had culture positive candidiasis. Among the isolated species, 68.3% were Candida albicans (28/41) and 31.7% were non- albicans Candida spp. Among non-albicans Candida species (13/41), Candida glabrata (19.5%), Candida tropicalis (7.3%), Candida guilliermondii (2.4%), Candida parapsilosis (2.4%) were identified. Antifungal susceptibility was tested for fluconazole (FLU), clotrimazole (CLTZ), itraconazole (ITZ), ketoconazole (KTZ), voriconazole (VOR), amphotericin-B (AMPH-B). Except C. glabrata and C.parapsilosis, all other species were sensitive to all tested antifungals. All isolated species were sensitive to KTZ, VOR, AMPH-B, and CLTZ. Nearly 22% of isolates were resistant to fluconazole. C. glabrata causes complicated, severe recurrent vulvovaginitis which is fluconazole resistant. Drug sensitivity prior prescribing antifungal agent identifies appropriate drug, decreases patient's disease morbidity and cross resistance.

Species distribution and antifungal susceptibility profiles of clinical and environmental Fusarium isolates from Mexico: A multicenter study

ABSTRACT Fusarium spp. has emerged as an opportunistic etiological agent with clinical manifestations varying from localized infections to deep-seated systemic disease. It is also a phytopathogen of economic impact. There are few reports on the species diversity of this genus, and no comprehensive studies on the epidemiology nor the antifungal susceptibility of Fusarium in Mexico. The present multicentric study aims to shed light on the species distribution and antifungal susceptibility patterns of 116 strains of Fusarium isolated from clinical and environmental samples. Isolates were identified by standard phenotypic characteristics and by sequencing of the ITS (internal transcribed spacer), TEF1 (translation elongation factor 1-α), RPB2 (RNA polymerase II core subunit), and/or CAM1 (calmodulin) regions. Susceptibility tests were carried out against 15 antifungals of clinical and agricultural use. Regarding Fusarium distribution, we identified 27 species belonging to eight different species complexes. The most frequently isolated species for both clinical and environmental samples were F. falciforme (34%), F. oxysporum sensu stricto (12%), F. keratoplasticum (8%), and F. solani sensu stricto (8%). All Fusarium isolates showed minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) equal to or above the maximum concentration evaluated for fluconazole, 5-fluocytosine, caspofungin, micafungin, and anidulafungin. All isolates had a MIC of ≤16 µg/mL for voriconazole, with a mode of 4 µg/mL. F. verticillioides appeared to be the most susceptible to all antifungals tested.

An in Vitro Study on Comparative Adherence of Oral Candida Albicans and Non–albicans Candida to Human Buccal Epithelial Cells and Its Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern

An in Vitro Study on Comparative Adherence of Oral Candida Albicans and Non–albicans Candida to Human Buccal Epithelial Cells and Its Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern

Fluconazole resistance in candida isolates from vaginal discharge in women attending an Apex Regional Sexually Transmitted Infections Center

Background: Globally, vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common infection in women. Candida albicans is the most common agent. There is an increasing prevalence of non-albicans Candida (NAC) species, mostly in vulnerable populations, responding poorly to fluconazole, the drug of choice for VVC. It leads to treatment failure, especially in clinical isolates with intrinsic fluconazole resistance; hence, appropriate identification and antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST) are of paramount importance to ensure better clinical outcomes. Aims and Objective: The aim of this study was to identify different Candida species isolated from women with VVC and to evaluate their antifungal drug susceptibility pattern. A retrospective observational study including a total of 286 isolates of Candida spp. isolated from 729 women with vaginal discharge attending the Outpatient Department of an Apex Regional Sexually Transmitted Infections Center in North India over 1 year (June 2022–May 2023) was performed. Identification and AFST were performed as per standard microbiological procedures. Statistical analysis was carried out using the SPSS version 22.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Data were presented as percentages and proportions. Results: Candida isolates were detected in 39.23% of women. The median age was 26–35 years. C. albicans was the most common isolate (60.8%), followed by Candida glabrata (31.8%), Candida tropicalis (4.19%), Candida parapsilosis (2.09%), Candida krusei (0.699%), and Candida kefyr (0.34%). Fluconazole resistance was seen in 29% of the isolates and susceptible dose-dependent in 32.15%. Conclusion: Increasing isolation of NAC species (39.2%) causing VVC and responding poorly to fluconazole (29% resistant strains) is a major concern. Timely and appropriate AFST will help improve the clinical outcome and quality of life.