Investigation of Candida auris in Tanta University Hospitals, Egypt

Abstract

Background: Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant (MDR) fungus of global significance. It causes invasive life-threatening infections associated with treatment failure. Objectives: To investigate the occurrence of C. auris species in Tanta University Hospitals, and its susceptibility profile to different antifungal agents. Methodology: Candida was isolated from different specimens. Screening for C. auris was performed using CHROMagar Candida medium. Species identification and antifungal susceptibility testing were performed by VITEK2 system. Molecular confirmation was done by PCR. Results: Out of 414 Candida isolates, 295 (71.3%) isolates were C. albicans, 48 (11.6%) were C. tropicalis, 42 (10.2%) were C. parapsilosis, 20 (4.8%) were C. krusei, 8 (1.9%) were C. glabrata and one (0.2%) isolate was C. haemulonii. Two isolates were MDR. No C. auris was identified by VITEK2 system or by PCR. Conclusion: No C. auris has been detected in Tanta University Hospitals. Nationwide studies are required for early detection of this superbug and limit its spread.