Characterization and antifungal susceptibility pattern of candida species isolated from urine samples in a tertiary care centre

Introduction: Urinary tract infections are among the most common infectious diseases in humans. The incidence of candidiasis is on the rise in hospitalized patients. The incidence of Candida has been on the rise worldwide. Urinary tract infections as a result of Candida species are becoming common in hospitalized patients. The species identification of Candida is important, as non-albicans Candida species are increasing in number and more resistant to antifungal drugs. The present study was aimed to speciate, characterize and perform antifungal susceptibility testing of the Candida spp. isolates from the urine samples. Material and methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Patna Medical College, Patna) from october-2017 to December 2018 over 1 year 3 months period. A total of 2251 urine samples were analysed and isolated Candida species were subjected to speciation and antifungal susceptibility was performed according to standard procedures. Results: A total of 2251 urine samples were screened and 100 Candida spp. were isolated The incidence of Candiduria was 4.44 %. Female predominance (71%) was noted in the present study. In cases of females, the maximum number of patients was in the age group of > 60 years. The most common predisposing factors responsible for candiduria was Foley’s catheter (87%) followed by diabetes (71%), IV catheter (53%), and frequent use of antibiotics (53%). C. albicans was the most common species isolated (58%). It was observed that all species showed maximum susceptibility to Caspofungin (100%), Amphotericin (97%), Voriconazole (92.94%), Posaconazole (93.72%) followed by itraconazole (80.20%). Conclusion: From this study, it is concluded that, candida albicans was the most common type of candida isolated from Candduria. NAC species have emerged as common cause of UTI. UTI is more common in female in >60 years age group, catherterized patients, diabetes and systemic antibiotic use. For treatment of candiduria, antifungal drugs like Voriconazole, Posaconazole and itraconazole can be given judiously while Caspofungin and Amphotericin B keep as reserve drug.