Testing the LightCycler Candida Kit M GRADE in artificially-contaminated whole blood and serum: Consequences for the diagnosis of invasive candidiasis

Development of molecular assays in the diagnosis of Candida albicans infections

“…In addition, the presence of Candida in the urine usually implies only colonization (Fisher et al 1995). According to Estran et al (2008), serum is superior to whole blood for testing, which agrees with research conducted by Kasai et al (2006). This may be because extracting Candida DNA directly from serum is less time-consuming and involves no cellular components, while extracting DNA from whole blood may result in the presence of significant amounts of PCR-inhibitory compounds (Maaroufi et al 2004).…”

“…As various degrees of azoles resistance has developed in C. albicans, early and accurate diagnosis of this pathogen is very important. At present, RT-PCR has the most exciting potential over other procedures because its rapid and accurate results allow physicians to prescribe optimal antifungal therapy, reducing the need for empirical therapy and facilitating better clinical outcomes at reduced cost (Estran et al 2008). But RT-PCR may soon be challenged by PNA Fish.…”