Candida auris: Microbiological Characteristics and Laboratory Diagnosis of the Hidden Pathogen

Abstract

Candida auris was first isolated in Japan in 2009. It has since been reported in more than 25 countries worldwide. This species, which can cause invasive infections with high mortality rates, is difficult to identify with traditional biochemical methods. C. auris can be transmitted among hospitalized patients by colonizing the skin. Resistance to fluconazole and amphotericin B is common in this species, and resistance to echinocandins, which are preferred in the treatment in some countries, is seen to develop. Studies have shown that resistance to antifungals is acquired, not intrinsic, and primary resistance mechanisms against echinocandins and azoles have been identified. This species is difficult to control because of its multidrug resistance, even the emergence of pan-resistant strains, misidentification with conventional methods in clinical microbiology laboratories, and long-term persistence in the hospital environment. In order to prevent infections with infection control measures, advanced laboratory methods that allow accurate diagnosis is needed. In addition, new antifungal agents should be researched and included in practice in order to ensure success in treatment. In this short review, current information about the epidemiology, infections, microbiological features and laboratory diagnosis of C. auris is mentioned.