Species identification of Candida isolates in various clinical specimens with their antifungal susceptibility patterns

The Candida species are ubiquitous yeasts which are found on many plants and are a part of the normal flora of the alimentary tract of mammals and the mucocutaneous membranes of humans. Those that are a part of the normal flora can invade tissues and cause life-threatening diseases in patients whose cell mediated immunity is decreased by disease or iatrogenic intervention. The accurate species identification of Candida is important for the treatment, as not all species respond to the same treatment and also because of the problem of anti-fungal resistance. The aims of the study were to isolate and identify the Candida species from clinical cases of candidiasis and to determine their anti-fungal susceptibility patterns and the predisposing conditions for candidiasis. A total of 100 Candida isolates from various clinical specimens were identified by speciation on a chromogenic medium, HiChrome Candida differential agar. Susceptibility testing was carried out on 50 Candida isolates by using Amphotericin B, Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Voriconazole and Fluocytosine. Candida albicans was the commonest species which was isolated (47%), followed by Candida tropicalis (30%). The Candida isolates were more susceptible to Amphotericin B (92%) and Fluocytosine (88%). Diabetes mellitus appeared to be the commonest predisposing factor for the Candida infections, followed by indiscriminate drug usage. An increase in the predisposing conditions in recent years has resulted in an increasing incidence of Candida infections. Therefore, the species level identification of the Candida isolates, along with their anti-fungal susceptibility patterns can greatly influence the treatment options for the clinician and may have an impact on the patient care also.