Comparison between virulence factors of Candida Albicans and non-albicans species of Candida isolated from genitourinary tract

Background: Candida spp. is frequently isolated from cases of vulvovaginal candidiasis and catheter associated UTI. C.albicans is the most frequently isolated species but non-albicans species of candida are gaining clinical significance.

Objectives: To compare the virulence factors like biofilm production, phospholipase and hemolytic activity in C.albicans with that of non albicans species of candida isolated from urogenital tract.

Materials and Methods: Vaginal swabs and urine samples received in Microbiology laboratory during one year period were processed by standard methods. The candida isolates were speciated and biofilm production, phospholipase and hemolytic activity were studied in them. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 11.5.

Results: Out of the 3001 urine samples processed 41 (1.3%) were positive for candida, out of 293 high vaginal swabs 41(14%) were positive for candida. C.albicans was the most prevalent isolate followed by C.tropicalis, C.glabrata and C.krusei. Out of 40 C.albicans strains, 22 (55%) produced biofilm, 39 (97.5%) produced hemolysin and 21 (52.5%) produced phospholipase. Out of 42 strains of non albicans species of candida, 19 (45%) produced biofilm, 41(97.6%) hemolysin and 5 (12%) produced phospholipase.

Conclusion: Phospholipase production was better in C.albicans in comparison toother species of candida. There was no statistically relevant difference between hemolysin and biofilm production by C.albicans and non albicans strains of candida.