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Tools for Detecting a "Superbug": Updates on Candida auris Testing
Shawn R Lockhart1, Meghan M Lyman1, D Joseph Sexton1
1Mycotic Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Preventiongrid.416738.f, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Abstract:
Candida auris is an emerging yeast species that has the unique characteristics of patient skin colonization and rapid transmission within health care facilities and the ability to rapidly develop antifungal resistance. When C. auris first started to appear in clinical microbiology laboratories, it could be identified only by using DNA sequencing. In the decade since its first identification outside of Japan, there have been many improvements in the detection of C. auris. These include the expansion of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) databases to include C. auris, the development of both laboratory-developed tests and commercially available kits for its detection, and special CHROMagar for identification from laboratory specimens. Here we discuss the current tools and resources that are available for C. auris identification and detection.
Insights
Candida auris, a yeast causing difficult-to-treat infections, is increasingly detected using improved methods. Advances in diagnostics like MALDI-TOF MS and specialized CHROMagar now aid in identifying this rapidly spreading, antifungal-resistant pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Clinical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen known for healthcare-associated transmission.
- This yeast exhibits rapid development of antifungal resistance, complicating treatment.
- Early detection was limited to DNA sequencing, posing challenges for clinical laboratories.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current diagnostic tools and resources for Candida auris identification.
- To highlight advancements in Candida auris detection methods over the past decade.
Main Methods:
- Review of diagnostic technologies including matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS).
- Assessment of laboratory-developed tests and commercial kits for Candida auris detection.
- Evaluation of specialized CHROMagar media for yeast identification.
Main Results:
- MALDI-TOF MS databases have been expanded to include Candida auris.
- Both in-house and commercial diagnostic kits are now available.
- Specialized CHROMagar media facilitate laboratory identification.
Conclusions:
- Significant progress has been made in the detection and identification of Candida auris.
- Current tools offer improved capabilities for clinical microbiology laboratories.
- Enhanced diagnostic resources are crucial for managing Candida auris outbreaks.
