Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026

An Ex vivo Assay to Study Candida albicans Hyphal Morphogenesis in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Published on: July 1, 2020
Shifting Epidemiology and Antifungal Susceptibility Patterns of Clinical Fungal Isolates in an Intensive Care Unit
Madalina Preda Solomon1,2, Beatrice Mahler3,4, Oana Popescu5
1Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Virology, Faculty of Nursing, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.
Background:
Antifungal resistance among Candida species represents a growing clinical challenge, particularly in the context of increasing prevalence of non-albicans species.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 747 fungal isolates collected between 2021 and 2026, evaluating species distribution, antifungal susceptibility profiles, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) patterns, and temporal trends in resistance.
Results:
Non-albicans Candida species accounted for 67.5% of isolates, exceeding the proportion of Candida albicans. Fluconazole and flucytosine exhibited the highest resistance rates (16.1% and 17.4%, respectively), while amphotericin B showed the highest susceptibility rate (82.1%). MIC analysis revealed elevated MIC90 values for azoles in Candida glabrata and Candida krusei, consistent with reduced susceptibility. A significant association between antifungal agent and susceptibility profile was observed (χ2 = 33.81, p < 0.001; Cramér's V = 0.205). Temporal analysis demonstrated fluctuating resistance patterns rather than a consistent increase over time. Multidrug resistance was uncommon (2.5%), although non-susceptibility to multiple agents was more frequent (20.3%).
Conclusions:
The study highlights substantial variability in antifungal susceptibility across Candida species and antifungal agents, emphasizing the importance of continuous surveillance and species-specific treatment strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Candidiasis
Antifungal Agents
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
Healthcare Associated Infections I: Iatrogenic, Exogenic and Endogenic
HAIs significantly increase the cost of health care. Extended stays in healthcare institutions, increased disability, increased costs of medications, including specialized antibiotics, and prolonged recovery times add to the patient's expenses and the healthcare institution and funding bodies. Common...
Urine Studies II: Urine Culture and Sensitivity Test
