In vitro antifungal susceptibility pattern of Candida species isolated from gastroesophageal candidiasis

The current study aimed to determine the antifungal susceptibility profile of Candida species isolated from gastroesophageal lesions

Gastroesophageal candidiasis is a common infection among HIV/AIDS patients and those who are taking PPI and H2RAs drugs. More than 20 Candida spp. can cause different types of mucocutaneous infections in humans. The present study was conducted to assess the antifungal susceptibility testing of clinical Candida spp. isolated from gastroesophageal lesions.

Forty-eight clinical samples were collected from 60 patients undergoing endoscopy. All isolates were identified by molecular techniques (PCR-RFLP). The profiles of the susceptibility of Candida spp. to seven antifungal agents, i.e. amphotericin B, fluconazole, itraconazole, luliconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, and caspofungin, were evaluated using broth microdilution.

The susceptibility profile of Candida isolates revealed 100% sensitivity to amphotericin B, caspofungin, and voriconazole. Moreover, fluconazole- (6.5%) and itraconazole-resistant (2.1%) isolates were observed.

With regard to the increase in fluconazole-resistant Candida species, it is necessary to determine the in vitro antifungal susceptibility pattern of clinical isolates for the best management of infection and to prevent the emergence of drug resistant isolates.