Epidemiology of Candida infection. III. A proposal for a new typing system for Candida albicans strains

A proposal of a new typing system for C. albicans strains in this paper is presented. Our system was elaborated on the basis of computer analysis of the results received using various already existing methods (killer system, resistogram, API system and Odd's and Abbott's method) for typing of 350 C. albicans strains. The strains originated from various anatomical and geographical sources. For the new system we have chosen three characters: sensitivity to two killer strains (Pichia sp. STUMM 1035, Hansenula sp. STUMM 1034) and urea assimilation test. The computer-aided program, used as an analytical tool, permitted the selection of 8 types among the strains. The majority of tested isolates belonged to types 6 and 7. We observed differences in the distribution of types according to the geographical and anatomical origin of the strains. The criteria adopted in our system can be useful in typing of C. albicans for epidemiological studies.