Identification of Different Species of Candida in Diabetic Patients using PCR-RFLP

Background and Diabetes affects the function of many organs in the body. It predisposes an environment for colonization of different microorganisms including Candida species which are normal floral of the skin, vagina and digestive system and increases their susceptibility to fungal infections. This study aimed at isolating different species of candida in diabetic patients attending Valiasr Hospital in Qaemshahr, Iran. In this cross sectional study, during one year, sampling was performed in the skin, mouth and vagina in 300 diabetic patients. Based on the measurement of HbA1c (Glycated heamoglobin) the participants were divided into two groups; controlled (HbA1c <7) and uncontrolled (HbA1c >7) diabetes mellitus. The identification of Candida isolates was done by direct microscopy and culture on chrome agar and confirmed by PCR-RLF method. A total of 111 (37%) cases were positive for candida species and C. albicans was the most common isolated species (104 cases, 93.7 %). HbA1c level was lower than 7 in 52 (17.3%) patients and in 248 (82.7%) patients it was higher than 7. The majority of Candida species (88.3%) were isolated from patients whose HbA1c level was higher than 7. The results showed that diabetes is a favorable condition for growth of Candida albicans and none albicans species. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes are more susceptible to Candida colonization.