Abstract

Background: Candida-associated bloodstream infections (BSI) are one of the major causes of nosocomial mortality. The changing spectrum of candidemia with respect to increased isolation of non-albicans Candida (NAC) along with the susceptibility pattern underlines the necessity of rapid and appropriate diagnosis of pathogenic Candida along with antifungal susceptibility to institute prompt and appropriate antifungal therapy.

Aims and Objectives: The aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of Candida isolates causing BSI along with the changing trend of its species-specific aetiology and susceptibility pattern in a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata.

Materials and Methods: Candida species isolated from positive blood cultures were speciated conventionally as per standard laboratory protocol. Virulence factors were determined phenotypically on sabouraud dextrose agar with blood, egg yolk agar, and tween 80 agar. Adherence and biofilm production were also detected. Antifungal susceptibility was performed by the disk diffusion method as per clinical and laboratory standards institute guidelines.

Results: Out of a total of 3987 blood samples collected during a period of 1 year, 73 (1.83%) showed growth of Candida, among which the majority was NAC (61.64%). Out of them, Candida tropicalis (23.28%) was the predominant species, followed by Candida guilliermondii (19.18%). Males (61.64%) outnumbered females. Age groups

Key words: Prevalence; Candidemia; Virulence; Susceptibility; Candida Associated Bloodstream-Infections