Candida haemulonii species complex: emerging fungal pathogens of the Metschnikowiaceae clade

Chengjun Cao1,2, Jian Bing2, Guojian Liao1

  • 1The Medical Research Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.

PubMed

Insights

Non-albicans Candida species, including the multidrug-resistant Candida haemulonii complex, are increasingly causing invasive fungal infections. This review examines their epidemiology, biology, virulence, and resistance, exploring reasons for their rise in clinical settings.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Antimicrobial Resistance

Background:

  • Candida species are common human fungal pathogens causing superficial and invasive infections.
  • While Candida albicans is most frequent, non-albicans Candida species are increasingly reported.
  • The Candida haemulonii species complex, including Candida auris, is a growing concern due to multidrug resistance and transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology, biology, virulence, and drug resistance of the Candida haemulonii species complex.
  • To discuss potential reasons for the increasing prevalence of non-albicans Candida infections.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological data.
  • Analysis of biological and virulence factors.
  • Assessment of drug resistance mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • The Candida haemulonii complex exhibits significant multidrug resistance.
  • Non-albicans Candida species demonstrate increasing clinical prevalence.
  • Factors contributing to this rise are under investigation.

Conclusions:

  • The Candida haemulonii species complex poses a significant clinical threat due to resistance and transmission.
  • Understanding the rise of non-albicans Candida infections is crucial for effective management.