Characterization and Biofilm Detection among Clinically Important Candida Species Varshan R1, Dr. Gopinath P2,* 1Department of Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India 2Senior lecturer, Department of Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India *Corresponding Author E-mail: gopu.myco@gmail.com
Online published on 12 January, 2017. Abstract Background Candida is the fourth most common cause of blood stream infection in hospitalized patients. Candidiasis is associated with intravenous lines and prosthetic lines are problematic, as they can act as substrates for biofilm production, the propensity of forming this is more in immuno suppressed patients. Materials and methods A total of 20 clinical isolates of Candida spp were obtained from different clinical conditions of different immuno compromised patients and were processed for its characterization followed by assessing the biofilm production. Results Of 20 isolates, 40% were C. albicans, 35% were C. tropicalis, 15% were C. krusei and each of 5% were C. kefyr and C. parapsilosis respectively. 5% of isolates were strong biofilm formers whereas, 65% were moderate biofilm producers in our Candida isolates. Conclusion The present study reveals there was an increase in degree of isolation of non-albicans Candida spp from immuno compromised individuals. These isolates were moderately producing biofilm. Hence, prompt identification and detection of biofilm are essential in clinical setup where more number of Candida have been encountered. Top |