Typing of Candida species isolated from blood cultures and analysis of their in vitro antifungal susceptibilities

The aim of the present study was to investigate antifungal susceptibility of Candida strains isolated from blood cultures in our tertiary hospital. Patients hospitalized between December 2008 and April 2011 whose more than one blood cultures revealed growth of Candida species and Candida strains isolated in these cultures were included in the study. In order to identify isolated yeast species, appearance and configuration of the colonies, germ tube test results and their morphological appearance in corn flour Tween 80 agar were evaluated. Within the study period, among 65 Candida strains isolated, 36 (55.4%) Candida parapsilosis, 17 (26.2%) Candida albicans, 6 (9.2%) Candida glabrata, 4 (6.2%) Candida tropicalis, and 2 (3.1%) Candida lusitaniae isolates were identified. According to Fungifast susceptibility panel, antifungal susceptibility rates were as follows: amphotericin B and flucytosine (100%) fluconazole (93.8%), itraconazole (87.6%) and voriconazole (96.9%). Antifungal susceptibility rates of Candida isolates based on E-test method were as follows: amphotericin B (100%), voriconazole (92.3 %) itraconazole (53.8%) and fluconazole (89.2%). In consideration of higher morbidity, mortality and economic burden of the cases with fungemia, measures against emergence of these infections convey crucial importance. Typing of fungi isolated from intensive care units in particular, and their antifungal susceptibility tests should be done regularly to reveal resistance patterns of pathogens, and any increase in resistance (if any) over time, must be determined with scientific methods. We think that similar studies will guide the clinician in planning treatment of Candida infections especially in patients at risk.