Epidemiology of Invasive Candidiasis
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Updated: Jun 14, 2025
An Ex vivo Assay to Study Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Published on: July 1, 2020
Derek J Bays1, Emily N Jenkins2,3, Meghan Lyman3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Invasive candidiasis (IC) is an increasingly prevalent, costly, and potentially fatal infection brought on by the opportunistic yeast, Candida. Previously, IC has predominantly been caused by C. albicans which is often drug susceptible. There has been a global trend towards decreasing rates of infection secondary to C. albicans and a rise in non-albicans species with a corresponding increase in drug resistance creating treatment challenges. With advances in management of malignancies, there has also been an increase in the population at risk from IC along with a corresponding increase in incidence of breakthrough IC infections. Additionally, the emergence of C. auris creates many challenges in management and prevention due to drug resistance and the organism's ability to transmit rapidly in the healthcare setting. While the development of novel antifungals is encouraging for future management, understanding the changing epidemiology of IC is a vital step in future management and prevention.
Insights
Invasive candidiasis (IC) is rising, driven by drug-resistant non-albicans Candida species and Candida auris. Understanding these trends is crucial for effective management and prevention of this serious infection.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Invasive candidiasis (IC) is a significant, life-threatening opportunistic infection caused by Candida yeast.
- Historically dominated by drug-susceptible Candida albicans, IC epidemiology is shifting globally.
- Rising incidence in immunocompromised patients and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains like Candida auris present major challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the evolving epidemiology of invasive candidiasis.
- To underscore the challenges posed by non-albicans Candida species and Candida auris.
- To emphasize the need for updated management and prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on invasive candidiasis trends.
- Analysis of epidemiological shifts in causative Candida species.
- Assessment of antifungal resistance patterns and clinical implications.
Main Results:
- Decreasing rates of Candida albicans infections globally.
- Increasing prevalence of non-albicans Candida species with higher drug resistance.
- Emergence of Candida auris, characterized by multidrug resistance and rapid healthcare transmission.
- Higher incidence of breakthrough IC in patients with advanced malignancies.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the changing landscape of IC pathogens is critical for effective treatment.
- Antifungal resistance and emerging species like C. auris necessitate new therapeutic approaches.
- Continued surveillance and research are vital for combating invasive candidiasis.
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