Study of Colonisation Pattern and Antifungal Sensitivity Profile of Candida Species in Diabetic Patients

Introduction: In recent times, various studies have pointed out the rise in prevalence of Candida species causing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Candiduria appears to be underdiagnosed entity and thus has been the source of morbidity and mortality. Emergence of drug resistant Candida species has further complicated the patient management. Aim: To understand the colonisation pattern and antifungal sensitivity profile of Candida species in diabetic patients. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of six months (July 2019 to December 2019) at a tertiary care teaching centre of southern Haryana, India. A total of 360 urine samples were collected from patients admitted both outpatient and in-patient. Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) >= 6.5% was taken as having diabetes. The urine samples were collected as per standard guidelines. Urine wet mount examination was performed. Confirmation of identification and antifungal susceptibility testing was done for all the Candida isolates. Data was analysed using statistical software. Results: The prevalence of candiduria was 65 (18.1%) among study subjects. Out of significant candiduria patients 19 (29.23%) were having Candida albicans, 30 (46.16%) were Candida tropicalis, 10 (15.38%) were Candida krusei, 6 (9.23%) Candida glabrata. Candida albicans was found to be sensitive to amphotericin-B in 100% of cases. Sensitivity to flucytosine, voriconazole and fluconazole was found to be 89.47%, 89.47% and 84.21% respectively in case of Candida albicans. Conclusion: The prevalence of candiduria is definitely high in this region. Non albicans Candida species are more resistant to antifungal drugs compared to Candida albicans.