Identification of FKS 1 and FKS 2 Gene Encoding Antifungal Resistance in Clinical Isolates of Candida Auris

Abstract

Background:

Candida auris was first isolated in Japan in 2009 from the external auditory canal of a patient. It has shown strong resistance to azole antifungal drugs and has caused severe nosocomial outbreaks and complicates the treatment of infectious diseases.

Material and Methods

:12 isolates of C.auris were identified from various clinical samples using morphological features on culture medium. Further identification and antifungal susceptibility testing was done using VITEK 2 compact system. Susceptibility was determined using an AST-YS09card which tests MIC of 6 antifungals, FLU, 5-FC, VRC, AMB, CAS and MFG. Isolates showing multi drug resistance were subjected to conventional PCR for the identification of FKS 1 and FKS 2 gene which is responsible for its multidrug resistance feature.

Result:

Of the 12 Candida auris isolates 8(67%) isolates showed multidrug resistance.6(75%)isolates were found to contain FKS1 gene and 5(41%) isolates contained FKS 2 gene that contributes in its antifungal resistance feature.

Conclusion:

The emergence of multidrug-resistant C. auris is a multifactorial phenomenon that raises many serious public health concerns. Our study documented 67% of resistance against C.auriswhich emphasizesthe rapid & accurate identification of C.auris for controlling its outbreaksand better treatment. The findings of this study also underline the importance of better routine diagnostic workflows for fungal infections particularly in regions where C. auris prevalence is increasing. A thorough understanding of the molecular insights into this organism is crucial for improved management which includes conductingC. auris surveillance and antifungal therapy in high-risk patients.