Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2025
Growing a Cystic Fibrosis-Relevant Polymicrobial Biofilm to Probe Community Phenotypes
Published on: April 19, 2024
Candida auris Outbreaks: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Silvia De Gaetano1, Angelina Midiri1, Giuseppe Mancuso1
1Mycology Laboratory, Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy.
Abstract:
Candida auris has been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a critical priority pathogen on its latest list of fungi. C. auris infections are reported in the bloodstream and less commonly in the cerebrospinal fluid and abdomen, with mortality rates that range between 30% and 72%. However, no large-scale epidemiology studies have been reported until now. The diagnosis of C. auris infections can be challenging, particularly when employing conventional techniques. This can impede the early detection of outbreaks and the implementation of appropriate control measures. The yeast can easily spread between patients and in healthcare settings through contaminated environments or equipment, where it can survive for extended periods. Therefore, it would be desirable to screen patients for C. auris colonisation. This would allow facilities to identify patients with the disease and take appropriate prevention and control measures. It is frequently unsusceptible to drugs, with varying patterns of resistance observed among clades and geographical regions. This review provides updates on C. auris, including epidemiology, clinical characteristics, genomic analysis, evolution, colonisation, infection, identification, resistance profiles, therapeutic options, prevention, and control.
Insights
Candida auris is a critical fungal pathogen causing severe infections with high mortality. This review details its epidemiology, diagnosis, and resistance, crucial for effective control.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Candida auris is a critical priority pathogen identified by the World Health Organization (WHO).
- C. auris infections present high mortality rates (30-72%) and pose diagnostic challenges.
- The yeast spreads easily in healthcare settings, necessitating effective screening and control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide comprehensive updates on Candida auris.
- To cover epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and genomic analysis.
- To discuss identification, resistance, treatment, and prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research and data.
- Information was gathered on epidemiology, clinical presentation, and genomic studies.
- Data on antifungal resistance, treatment, and control measures were compiled.
Main Results:
- Large-scale epidemiology studies are lacking but C. auris is a growing global concern.
- Diagnostic challenges exist, hindering early outbreak detection.
- Antifungal resistance is a significant issue, varying by clade and region.
Conclusions:
- Effective screening for C. auris colonization is essential for prevention and control.
- Understanding resistance profiles is key to selecting appropriate therapies.
- Further research and standardized control measures are needed to combat this pathogen.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Steps in Outbreak Investigation
01:20Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
01:25Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...