Candida auris: Emerging fungal pathogen in the US

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Mycology
• Public Health

Background:

• Candida auris (C. auris) is an emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen.
• It can colonize individuals asymptomatically or cause severe invasive infections.
• Increasing incidence of C. auris infections, especially drug-resistant strains, is a global health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of Candida auris.
• To discuss the epidemiology and clinical significance of C. auris infections.
• To outline essential infection prevention and control (IPC) measures for C. auris.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of C. auris epidemiology and clinical manifestations.
• Synthesis of current data on drug resistance patterns.
• Compilation of recommended IPC guidelines.

Main Results:

• C. auris exhibits high rates of antifungal drug resistance.
• Invasive infections are associated with significant mortality.
• Effective IPC measures are critical to limit transmission.

Conclusions:

• Candida auris poses a substantial threat due to its resistance and virulence.
• Enhanced surveillance and strict adherence to IPC are vital.
• Further research into novel treatments and diagnostics is needed.