The frequency distribution and consistency of assimilation biotypes of Candida albicans

Two hundred and fifty clinical strains of Candida albicans and six isolates from a cross-infection outbreak were studied for their ability to assimilate 19 carbohydrates in the API-20C system (APILaboratory Products Ltd., Basingstoke, UK). The assimilation profiles were stable on repeat testing; at intervals in the 72 h duration of the test; and when incubated at different temperatures. Although not a complete system of biotyping, the API-20C system shows high typability, and fair reproducibility and discrimination, having a limited role in indicating which isolates should be typed by more elaborate methods.