Comparative analysis of candidal carriage rates in long-term and short-term COVID-19 patients: An RT-PCR study

Most individuals who had COVID-19 infection recover completely. However, current research shows that 10-20 % of the population, especially immunocompromised and elderly people, endure numerous adverse effects and multiple complications associated with different organs and systems during its pathogenic cycle. Also, many fungal coinfections are seen as post-COVID dysbiosis, the most common fungal organism being Candida. This study aims to compare the candidal carriage rate of short-term and long-term affected SARS-COV-2 patients in saliva using PCR and compare it with healthy individuals.

The study included both male (15) and female (23) long-term and short-term post-COVID patients and healthy individuals [Male (5) and Female (15)]. The candidal carriage rate was increased in long-term COVID patients than in short-term COVID patients and healthy individuals (p < 0.001∗). Among long-term COVID patients, those who had oxygen assistance (p=0.04) and were admitted to the ICU (p=0.01) had relatively higher candidal carriage rates than those who didn't receive any intensive care procedures.

COVID-19 significantly affects the oral microbiome, leading to dysbiosis and increased candidal carriage. The manifestation of fungal coinfections in post-COVID patients appears to be influenced by various factors, including oxygen support, catheterization, and immunosuppressive treatments. Thereby, early diagnosis and early intervention, along with health care providers acquainted with potential risks and the likelihood of secondary infections, are the only ways to reduce the consequences of this devastating disease.