Candida auris: an emergent virulent and multidrug-resistant yeast associated with serious health implications

Abstract

Background to the study: Invasive candidiasis is a critical healthcare-related fungal infection caused by several Candida species. Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant, non-albicans species responsible for nosocomial infections, from skin colonization to invasive candidiasis outbreaks. It causes horizontal transmission, persistent outbreaks, and high mortality rates ranging from 30% to 78% across the affected populations.Objectives and methodological approach: This study aimed to review the data obtained on various virulence and resistance factors of C. auris strains that facilitate their survival. The available published research articles related to C. auris pathogenicity were retrieved and reviewed from four reliable databases, namely ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus.Results: Common virulent factors of C. auris include host-defense evasion, enzyme production (proteinase, hemolysin, and phospholipase), and adherence ability to host cells. Invasive candidiasis management requires the administration of an appropriate antifungal drug for successful clinical outcomes. Currently, only a few classes of antifungal drugs are available for antifungal therapeutic use. The emergence of resistance to a single class or multidrug greatly impaired effective management. About 90% of C. auris have intrinsic resistance to fluconazole.Conclusions and outcomes: Early, rapid, and sensitive diagnosis is essential for initiation of effective therapy since C. auris strains often produce virulent characteristics and are likely to resist the commonly used antifungal drugs.