Abstract
Background and Objectives:The last two decades have seen a significant rise in the infections caused by drug resistant Candida species in various centers in India. The objective of this study was to isolate and speciateCandida species from various clinical samples, to detect their antifungal susceptibility pattern and to note down the risk factors.
Methods:
Candida species isolated from various clinical samples were subjected to speciation using standard yeast identification protocol and CHROM agar. Antifungal susceptibility testing was done by the disc diffusion method to amphotericin B, fluconazole, nystatin, itraconazole, ketoconazole and clotrimazole. Clinical details and risk factors of the patients were noted down.
Results:
Among the 100 culture positive cases,various species of Candida were reported as C. albicans (54%), C. tropicalis (22%), C. glabrata(12%), C. krusei (06%), C.parapsilosis (04%) and C. kefyr(02%).Resistance for Candida in present study was 26% for fluconazole, 24% for itraconazole, 29% for clotrimazole, 18% for ketoconazole and 10% for nystatin. No resistance was seen to amphotericin B.
Conclusion:
Candida albicans was the predominant isolate. Accurate identification of different species of Candida is essential not only for epidemiological purposes but for diagnostic and prognostic value to patients because all species do not respond to same antifungal drugs. The development of resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs indicate need for rational use, preferably after in- vitro antifungal susceptibility testing.