Detection of cutaneous candidiasis in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients from North India

Bharti Sharma & Skarma Nonzom

Sydowia 75: 259-267

Published online on February 7th, 2023

Cutaneous candidiasis refers to the infections restricted to the skin and its appendages (hair and nails) which are caused by the species of Candida. Generally, the species of Candida represent a part of the normal human microflora as harmless commensals, but they may become opportunistic and cause infections under favourable circumstances. In the present investigation, cutaneous candidiasis in three patients from District Jammu of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, was studied. Two species of Candida, namely C. parapsilosis and C. krusei, were isolated from the infected skin and hair specimens of three patients (2 immunocompetent and 1 immunocompromised). Direct microscopy, cultural and microscopic characteristics were taken into account to identify the causal agents. Molecular characterization was done for the confirmation of one of the causal agents, C. parapsilosis. In-vitro antifungal susceptibility test showed fluconazole to be the most effective antifungal drug. Careful and repeated isolations followed by correct identification of causal agents form the basis of appropriate treatment. Results of in-vitro antifungal susceptibility tests may prove helpful for clinicians in choosing a specific antifungal drug to cure infections.

Keywords: Yeast infections, skin and hair infections, mycological examinations, in-vitro antifungal susceptibility test, Jammu and Kashmir (India)

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