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Candida auris infection and biofilm formation: going beyond the surface
Mark V Horton1, Jeniel E Nett1
1University of Wisconsin-Madison, Departments of Medicine and Medical Microbiology & Immunology, Wisconsin, United States of America.
Purpose Of Review:
Emergent fungal pathogen C. auris is spreading in hospitals throughout the world and mortality rates for patients with invasive disease approach 60%. This species exhibits a heightened capacity to colonize skin, persist on hospital surfaces, rapidly disseminate in healthcare settings, and resist antifungal therapy.
Recent Findings:
Current investigations show that C. auris produces biofilms, surface-adherent communities that resist antifungals and withstand desiccation. These biofilms form when C. auris is growing on skin or in conditions expected in the hospital environment and on implanted medical devices.
Summary:
Here we will highlight the topic of biofilm formation by C. auris. We illustrate how this process influences resistance to antimicrobials and promotes nosocomial transmission.
Insights
Candida auris forms biofilms, which are communities of fungi that resist antifungal treatments and environmental stress. This biofilm formation contributes to the spread of this dangerous hospital-acquired pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Emergent fungal pathogen *Candida auris* ( *C. auris*) is a global health threat, causing invasive infections with high mortality rates.
- *C. auris* demonstrates significant capabilities for colonization, persistence in healthcare environments, and resistance to antifungal agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of biofilm formation in *Candida auris* pathogenesis.
- To elucidate how biofilms contribute to antimicrobial resistance and nosocomial transmission.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current investigations on *C. auris* biofilm formation.
- Analysis of factors influencing biofilm development and persistence.
Main Results:
- *C. auris* actively produces biofilms, which are surface-adherent microbial communities.
- These biofilms enhance resistance to antifungal agents and environmental desiccation.
- Biofilm formation occurs on host tissues like skin and on medical devices in hospital settings.
Conclusions:
- Biofilm formation is a critical factor in the survival and dissemination of *Candida auris*.
- Understanding *C. auris* biofilms is essential for developing strategies to combat its spread and treat infections.
- Targeting biofilm formation may reduce antimicrobial resistance and nosocomial transmission of *C. auris*.
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