Invasive Candida auris infections in Kuwait hospitals: epidemiology, antifungal treatment and outcome

Malik A, Nafady-Hego H, Hanana F, Abraham J, G. Garcell H, Hudaib G, Al-Wali W, Eltayeb F, Shams S, G. Thomas A, Saleem S, Abou-Samra AB, Butt AA. Spectrum of infection and outcomes in individuals with Candida auris infection in Qatar

BACKGROUND

We investigated the spectrum of infection and risk factors for invasive fungal disease due to Candida auris (CA) in Qatar.

METHODS

We performed structured chart reviews on individuals with any positive CA culture between May 2019 and December 2022 at three tertiary care hospitals in Qatar. Invasive CA disease (ICAD) was defined as a positive sterile site culture, or any positive culture for CA with appropriate antifungal prescription. Main outcomes included proportion of individuals who developed ICAD among those with positive cultures, and 30-day/in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

Among 331 eligible individuals, median age was 56 years, 83.1% were male, 70.7% were non-Qataris, and 37.5% had ≥ 3 comorbidities at baseline. Overall, 86.4% were deemed to have colonization and 13.6% developed ICAD. Those with ICAD were more likely to have invasive central venous or urinary catheterization and mechanical ventilation. Individuals with ICAD had longer prior ICU stay (16 vs 26 days, P = 0.002), and longer hospital length of stay (63 vs. 43 days; P = 0.003), and higher 30-day mortality (38% vs. 14%; P<0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, only mechanical ventilation was associated with a higher risk of ICAD (OR 3.33, 95% CI 1.09-10.17).

CONCLUSION

Invasive Candida auris Disease is associated with longer hospital stay and higher mortality. Severely ill persons on mechanical ventilation should be especially monitored for development of ICAD.

Emergence of highly resistant Candida auris in the United Arab Emirates: a retrospective analysis of evolving national trends

Introduction

The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control lists Candida auris, given its global emergence, multidrug resistance, high mortality, and persistent transmissions in health care settings as one of five urgent threats. As a new threat, the need for surveillance of C. auris is critical. This is particularly important for a cosmopolitan setting and global hub such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where continued introduction and emergence of resistant variant strains is a major concern.

Methods

The United Arab Emirates has carried out a 12 years of antimicrobial resistance surveillance (2010-2021) across the country, spanning all seven Emirates. A retrospective analysis of C. auris emergence from 2018-2021 was undertaken, utilising the demographic and microbiological data collected via a unified WHONET platform for AMR surveillance.

Results

Nine hundred eight non-duplicate C. auris isolates were reported from 2018-2021. An exponential upward trend of cases was found. Most isolates were isolated from urine, blood, skin and soft tissue, and the respiratory tract. UAE nationals nationals comprised 29% (n = 186 of 632) of all patients; the remainder were from 34 other nations. Almost all isolates were from inpatient settings (89.0%, n = 809). The cases show widespread distribution across all reporting sites in the country. C. auris resistance levels remained consistently high across all classes of antifungals used. C. auris in this population remains highly resistant to azoles (fluconazole, 72.6% in 2021) and amphotericin. Echinocandin resistance has now emerged and is increasing annually. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality between Candida auris and Candida spp. (non-auris) patients (p-value: 0.8179), however Candida auris patients had a higher intensive care unit (ICU) admission rate (p-value <0.0001) and longer hospital stay (p < 0.0001) compared to Candida spp. (non-auris) patients.

Conclusion

The increasing trend of C. auris detection and associated multidrug resistant phenotypes in the UAE is alarming. Continued C. auris circulation in hospitals requires enhanced infection control measures to prevent continued dissemination.

Spectrum and management of rare Candida/yeast infections in Kuwait in the Middle East

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are associated with high mortality rates and mostly affect patients with compromised immunity. The incidence of IFIs is increasing worldwide with the expanding population of susceptible patients. Candida and other yeast infections represent a major component of IFIs. Rare Candida/yeast infections have also increased in recent years and pose considerable diagnostic and management challenges as they are not easily recognized by routine phenotypic characteristic-based diagnostic methods and/or by the automated yeast identification systems. Rare Candida/yeasts also exhibit reduced susceptibility to antifungal drugs making proper management of invasive infections challenging. Here, we review the diagnosis and management of 60 cases of rare Candida/yeast IFIs described so far in Kuwait, an Arabian Gulf country in the Middle East. Interestingly, majority (34 of 60, 56.7%) of these rare Candida/yeast invasive infections occurred among neonates or premature, very-low-birth-weight neonates, usually following prior bacteremia episodes. The clinical details, treatment given, and outcome were available for 28 of 34 neonates. The crude mortality rate among these neonates was 32.2% as 19 of 28 (67.8%) survived the infection and were discharged in healthy condition, likely due to accurate diagnosis and frequent use of combination therapy. Physicians treating patients with extended stay under intensive care, on mechanical ventilation, receiving broad spectrum antibiotics and with gastrointestinal surgery/complications should proactively investigate IFIs. Timely diagnosis and early antifungal treatment are essential to decrease mortality. Understanding the epidemiology and spectrum of rare Candida/yeast invasive infections in different geographical regions, their susceptibility profiles and management will help to devise novel diagnostic and treatment approaches and formulate guidelines for improved patient outcome.

Candida auris Blood stream infection- a descriptive study from Qatar

BACKGROUND

Candida auris is an emerging yeast pathogen that can cause invasive infections, particularly candidemia, in healthcare settings. Candida auris is characterized by resistance to multiple classes of antifungal drugs and high mortality.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the risk factors, clinical characteristics, antifungal susceptibility pattern and outcomes of Candida auris blood stream infection.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of electronic medical records of C. auris fungemia cases in the facilities under Hamad Medical corporation, Qatar from 1/11/2018 to 31/7/2021. Demographic data, risk factors, antibiogram and 30-day outcome are described.

RESULTS

We identified 36 patients with C. auris fungemia. Most of the patients were in intensive care unit following severe COVID-19 pneumonia and had received steroids and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Most cases were central line related. Over 90% of isolates were non-susceptible to fluconazole, while amphotericin B resistance reached 85%. Factors associated with high mortality included initial SOFA score of 9 or above and absence of source control.

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals a concerning 41.6% mortality rate within 30 days of C. auris candidemia. Furthermore, the prevalence of amphotericin B resistance in Qatar exceeds what has been reported in the literature necessitating further exploration. Echinocandins retains nearly 100% susceptibility and should be prioritized as the treatment of choice. These findings emphasize the need for vigilant monitoring and appropriate management strategies to combat C. auris infections and improve patient outcomes.

First Report of Azole-Resistant Aspergillus fumigatus with TR46/Y121F/T289A Mutations in Kuwait and an Update on Their Occurrence in the Middle East

Pulmonary aspergillosis is a common fungal infection with several clinical manifestations including invasive, allergic and chronic chest diseases. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a leading cause of death in immunocompromised patients, particularly those receiving chemotherapy and among bone marrow transplant recipients. Aspergillus fumigatus is the most prevalent causative agent and voriconazole is the first-line therapy for IPA. In this study, we report the first isolation of voriconazole-resistant A. fumigatus carrying TR46/Y121F/T289A mutations from an immunocompromised pregnant lady in Kuwait. The patient was successfully treated for a probable respiratory infection with caspofungin and voriconazole. The literature review from PubMed has identified itraconazole-resistant clinical and environmental A. fumigatus isolates with TR34/L98H mutations in the cyp51A from several Middle Eastern countries including Kuwait. However, clinical A. fumigatus isolates with cyp51A TR46/Y121F/T289A mutations have not been reported previously from any country in the region while environmental isolates have been reported only from Iran. The source of voriconazole-resistant A. fumigatus CYP51A TR46/Y121F/T289A mutant in our patient remained unknown. Surveillance for azole resistance among clinical and environmental isolates of A. fumigatus is warranted in Kuwait.

Strategies to Prevent Transmission of Candida auris in Healthcare Settings

Purpose of Review

Candida auris, a recently recognized yeast pathogen, has become a major public health threat due to the problems associated with its accurate identification, intrinsic and acquired resistance to antifungal drugs, and its potential to easily contaminate the environment causing clonal outbreaks in healthcare facilities. These outbreaks are associated with high mortality rates particularly among older patients with multiple comorbidities under intensive care settings. The purpose of this review is to highlight strategies that are being adapted to prevent transmission of C. auris in healthcare settings.

Recent Findings

Colonized patients shed C. auris into their environment which contaminates surrounding equipment. It resists elimination even by robust decontamination procedures and is easily transmitted to new patients during close contact resulting in outbreaks. Efforts are being made to rapidly identify C. auris-infected/C. auris-colonized patients, to determine its susceptibility to antifungals, and to perform effective cleaning and decontamination of the environment and isolation of colonized patients to prevent further transmission.

Summary

Rapid and accurate identification of hospitalized patients infected/colonized with C. auris, rapid detection of its susceptibility patterns, and appropriate use of infection control measures can help to contain the spread of this highly pathogenic yeast in healthcare settings and prevent/control outbreaks.

Investigation of Novel Quinoline-Thiazole Derivatives as Antimicrobial Agents: In Vitro and In Silico Approaches

Infectious diseases are a major concern around the world. Today, it is an urgent need for new chemotherapeutics for infectious diseases. Because of that, our group designed, synthesized, and analyzed 14 new quinoline derivatives endowed with the pharmacophore moiety of fluoroquinolones primarily for their antimicrobial effects. Their cytotoxicity effects were tested against six bacterial and four fungal strains and NIH/3T3 cell line. Additionally, their action mechanisms were evaluated against DNA gyrase and lanosterol 14α-demethylase (LMD). Furthermore, to eliminate the potential side effects, the active compounds were evaluated against the aromatase enzyme. The experimental enzymatic results were evaluated for active compounds' binding modes using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies. The results were utilized to clarify the structure-activity relationship (SAR). Finally, compound 4m was the most potent compound for its antifungal activity with low cytotoxicity against healthy cells and fewer possible side effects, while compounds 4j and 4l can be used alone for special patients who are suffering from fungal infections in addition to the primer disease.

Candida auris: A Mini Review on Epidemiology in Healthcare Facilities in Asia

Candida auris, a newly emerging healthcare-associated yeast pathogen from the Metschnikowiaceae family, was first described in the ear canal of an elderly Japanese patient in 2009. The yeast is one of the causative agents of candidemia, which has been linked with nosocomial outbreaks and high mortality rates in healthcare facilities worldwide. Since its first isolation, the occurrence of C. auris in six continents has becomes a grave concern for the healthcare professionals and scientific community. Recent reports showed the identification of five geographically distinct clades and high rates of antifungal resistance associated with C. auris. Till date, there are no effective treatment options, and standardized measures for prevention and control of C. auris infection in healthcare facilities. This leads to frequent therapeutic failures and complicates the eradication of C. auris infection in healthcare facilities. Thus, this review focuses on the recent understanding of the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, transmission and prevention and control strategies of C. auris infection in healthcare facilities in Asia.

Silver Nanoparticles: A Promising Antifungal Agent against the Growth and Biofilm Formation of the Emergent Candida auris

Candida auris is a globally-emerging pathogen that is correlated to nosocomial infections and high mortality rates, causing major outbreaks in hospitals and serious public health concerns worldwide. This study investigated the antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on clinical isolates of C. auris. A total of eight clinical isolates were collected from blood, urine, ear swab, and groin. C. auris was confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS, and gene sequencing. All isolates confirmed as C. auris were subjected to antimicrobial agents, including amphotericin B, fluconazole, caspofungin, voriconazole, micafungin, and flucytosine. A serial dilution of a silver nanoparticles solution was prepared to test antifungal susceptibility testing under planktonic conditions. Moreover, an antibiofilm activity assay was determined using a colony-forming assay and a cell viability assay by a live−dead yeast kit. Significant antifungal and antibiofilm activity of AgNPs was detected against all isolates; MIC was <6.25 μg/mL, the range of MFC was from 6.25 to 12.5 μg/mL for all isolates, and the highest value of IC50 was 3.2 μg/mL. Silver nanomaterials could represent a possible antimicrobial agent to prevent outbreaks caused by C. auris infections.

Transcriptional Response of Candida auris to the Mrr1 Inducers Methylglyoxal and Benomyl

Candida auris is an urgent threat to human health due to its rapid spread in health care settings and its repeated development of multidrug resistance. Diseases that increase risk for C. auris infection, such as diabetes, kidney failure, or immunocompromising conditions, are associated with elevated levels of methylglyoxal (MG), a reactive dicarbonyl compound derived from several metabolic processes. In other Candida species, expression of MG reductase enzymes that catabolize and detoxify MG are controlled by Mrr1, a multidrug resistance-associated transcription factor, and MG induces Mrr1 activity. Here, we used transcriptomics and genetic assays to determine that C. auris MRR1a contributes to MG resistance, and that the main Mrr1a targets are an MG reductase and MDR1, which encodes a drug efflux protein. The C. auris Mrr1a regulon is smaller than Mrr1 regulons described in other species. In addition to MG, benomyl (BEN), a known Mrr1 stimulus, induces C. auris Mrr1 activity, and characterization of the MRR1a-dependent and -independent transcriptional responses revealed substantial overlap in genes that were differentially expressed in response to each compound. Additionally, we found that an MRR1 allele specific to one C. auris phylogenetic clade, clade III, encodes a hyperactive Mrr1 variant, and this activity correlated with higher MG resistance. C. auris MRR1a alleles were functional in Candida lusitaniae and were inducible by BEN, but not by MG, suggesting that the two Mrr1 inducers act via different mechanisms. Together, the data presented in this work contribute to the understanding of Mrr1 activity and MG resistance in C. auris. IMPORTANCE Candida auris is a fungal pathogen that has spread since its identification in 2009 and is of concern due to its high incidence of resistance against multiple classes of antifungal drugs. In other Candida species, the transcription factor Mrr1 plays a major role in resistance against azole antifungals and other toxins. More recently, Mrr1 has been recognized to contribute to resistance to methylglyoxal (MG), a toxic metabolic product that is often elevated in different disease states. MG can activate Mrr1 and its induction of Mdr1 which can protect against diverse challenges. The significance of this work lies in showing that MG is also an inducer of Mrr1 in C. auris, and that one of the major pathogenic C. auris lineages has an activating Mrr1 mutation that confers protection against MG.

Molecular characterisation of Candida auris isolates from immunocompromised patients in a tertiary-care hospital in Kuwait reveals a novel mutation in FKS1 conferring reduced susceptibility to echinocandins

BACKGROUND

Candida auris is an emerging, potentially multidrug-resistant pathogen that exhibits clade-specific resistance to fluconazole and also develops resistance to echinocandins and amphotericin B easily. This study analysed 49 C auris isolates for alterations in hotspot-1 and hotspot-2 of FKS1 for the detection of mutations conferring reduced susceptibility to echinocandins.

METHODS

C auris isolates (n = 49) obtained from 18 immunocompromised patients during June 2016-December 2018 were analysed. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed by Etest and broth microdilution-based MICRONAUT-AM assay. Mutations in hotspot-1 and hotspot-2 regions of FKS1 were detected by PCR sequencing and fingerprinting of the isolates was done by short tandem repeat typing.

RESULTS

The patients had multiple comorbidities/risk factors for Candida spp. infection including cancer/leukaemia/lymphoma/myeloma (n = 16), arterial/central line (n = 17), urinary catheter (n = 17), mechanical ventilation (n = 14) and major surgery (n = 9) and received antifungal drugs as prophylaxis and/or empiric treatment. Seven patients developed C auris candidemia/breakthrough candidemia, nine patients had candiduria with/without candidemia and four patients developed surgical site/respiratory infection. Resistance to fluconazole and amphotericin B was detected in 44 and four isolates, respectively. Twelve C auris isolates from eight patients showed reduced susceptibility to echinocandins. Seven isolates contained hostspot-1 mutations and three isolates from a candidemia patient contained R1354H mutation in hotspot-2 of FKS1. Ten patients died, five were cured, two were lost to follow-up and treatment details for one patient were not available.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings describe development of a novel mutation in FKS1 conferring reduced susceptibility to echinocandins in one patient during treatment and unfavourable clinical outcome for many C auris-infected patients.

Emerging Status of Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria and Fungi in the Arabian Peninsula

Simple Summary

The incidence and developing status of multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi, as well as their related mortality, is reviewed by a systematic published literature search from nine countries in the Arabian Peninsula. In order to analyse the emerging status and mortality, a total of 382 research articles were selected from a comprehensive screening of 1705 papers. More than 850 deaths reported since 2010 in the Arabian Peninsula due to the infection of multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi. Multidrug-resistant bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, and fungi Candida auris are the most prevalent and causing high deaths. To control these infections and associated deaths in the Arabian Peninsula, continuous preventive measures, accurate methods for early diagnosis of infection, active surveillance, constant monitoring, developing vaccines, eradicating multidrug resistance modulators, and data sharing among countries are required.

Abstract

We aimed to identify the prevalence and emerging status of multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi and their associated mortality in nine countries in the Arabian Peninsula. Original research articles and case studies regarding multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi in the Arabian Peninsula, published during the last 10 years, were retrieved from PubMed and Scopus. A total of 382 studies were included as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria, as well as the PRISMA guidelines, from a thorough screening of 1705 articles, in order to analyse the emerging status and mortality. The emerging nature of >120 multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria and fungi in the Arabian Peninsula is a serious concern that requires continuous monitoring and immediate preventive measures. More than 50% (n = 453) of multidrug-resistant, microbe-associated mortality (n = 871) in the Arabian Peninsula was due to MDR Acinetobacter baumannii, Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Staphylococcus aureus infection. Overall, a 16.51% mortality was reported among MDR-infected patients in the Arabian Peninsula from the 382 articles of this registered systematic review. MDR A. baumannii (5600 isolates) prevailed in all the nine countries of the Arabian Peninsula and was one of the fastest emerging MDR bacteria with the highest mortality (n = 210). A total of 13,087 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates were reported in the region. Candida auris (580 strains) is the most prevalent among the MDR fungal pathogen in the Arabian Peninsula, having caused 54 mortalities. Active surveillance, constant monitoring, the development of a candidate vaccine, an early diagnosis of MDR infection, the elimination of multidrug resistance modulators and uninterrupted preventive measures with enhanced data sharing are mandatory to control MDR infection and associated diseases of the Arabian Peninsula. Accurate and rapid detection methods are needed to differentiate MDR strain from other strains of the species. This review summarises the logical relation, prevalence, emerging status and associated mortality of MDR microbes in the Arabian Peninsula.

Epidemiology of Candidemia in Kuwait: A Nationwide, Population-Based Study

The Candida species cause a majority of invasive fungal infections. In this article, we describe the nationwide epidemiology of candidemia in Kuwait in 2018. Yeast bloodstream isolates submitted from all major hospitals and identified by phenotypic MALDI-TOF MS and/or by molecular methods were studied. Susceptibility testing was performed by Etest. Out of 313 bloodstream yeasts, 239 Candida spp. isolates (excluding duplicate isolates) were obtained during 234 candidemic episodes among 223 patients. Mixed-species candidemia and re-infection occurred in 5 and 11 patients, respectively. C. albicans (n = 74), C. parapsilosis (n = 54), C. tropicalis (n = 35), C. auris (n = 33), C. glabrata (n = 32), other Candida spp. (n = 11), and other yeasts (n = 9) caused fungemia. Nearly 50% of patients were in intensive care units. Candida spp. isolates (except C. glabrata) were susceptible to caspofungin and 27% of C. auris were amphotericin B-resistant. Resistance to fluconazole was 100% in C. auris, 17% in C. parapsilosis, 12% in C. glabrata, and 1% in C. albicans. Mortality was 47% for other Candida/yeast infections. Nationwide candidemia incidence in 2018 was 5.29 cases/100,000 inhabitants. Changes in species spectrum, increasing fluconazole resistance in C. parapsilosis, and the emergence of C. auris as a major pathogen in Kuwait are noteworthy findings. The data could be of help in informing decisions regarding planning, in the allocation of resources, and in antimicrobial stewardship.

Candida auris: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Pathogenesis, Antifungal Susceptibility, and Infection Control Measures to Combat the Spread of Infections in Healthcare Facilities

Candida auris, a recently recognized, often multidrug-resistant yeast, has become a significant fungal pathogen due to its ability to cause invasive infections and outbreaks in healthcare facilities which have been difficult to control and treat. The extraordinary abilities of C. auris to easily contaminate the environment around colonized patients and persist for long periods have recently resulted in major outbreaks in many countries. C. auris resists elimination by robust cleaning and other decontamination procedures, likely due to the formation of 'dry' biofilms. Susceptible hospitalized patients, particularly those with multiple comorbidities in intensive care settings, acquire C. auris rather easily from close contact with C. auris-infected patients, their environment, or the equipment used on colonized patients, often with fatal consequences. This review highlights the lessons learned from recent studies on the epidemiology, diagnosis, pathogenesis, susceptibility, and molecular basis of resistance to antifungal drugs and infection control measures to combat the spread of C. auris infections in healthcare facilities. Particular emphasis is given to interventions aiming to prevent new infections in healthcare facilities, including the screening of susceptible patients for colonization; the cleaning and decontamination of the environment, equipment, and colonized patients; and successful approaches to identify and treat infected patients, particularly during outbreaks.

Genomic Epidemiology of Candida auris in Qatar Reveals Hospital Transmission Dynamics and a South Asian Origin

Candida auris is an emerging, multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen that has become a public health threat with an increasing incidence of infections worldwide. Candida auris spreads easily among patients within and between hospitals. Infections and outbreaks caused by C. auris have been reported in the Middle East region including Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar; however, the origin of these isolates is largely unknown. Pathogen whole genome sequencing (WGS) was used to determine the epidemiology and drug resistance mutations of C. auris in Qatar. Forty-four samples isolated from patients in three hospitals and the hospital environment were sequenced by Illumina NextSeq. Core genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revealed that all isolates belonged to the South Asian lineage with genetic heterogeneity that suggests previous acquisition from foreign healthcare. The genetic variability among the outbreak isolates in the two hospitals (A and B) was low. Four environmental isolates clustered with the related clinical isolates, and epidemiologically linked isolates clustered together, suggesting that the ongoing transmission of C. auris could be linked to infected/colonized patients and the hospital environment. Prominent mutations Y132F and K143R in ERG11 linked to increased fluconazole resistance were detected.

Murine model of colonization with fungal pathogen Candida auris to explore skin tropism, host risk factors and therapeutic strategies

Candida auris is an emerging multi-drug-resistant human fungal pathogen. C. auris skin colonization results in environmental shedding, which underlies hospital transmissions, and predisposes patients to subsequent infections. We developed a murine skin topical exposure model for C. auris to dissect risk factors for colonization and to test interventions that might protect patients. We demonstrate that C. auris establishes long-term residence within the skin tissue compartment, which would elude clinical surveillance. The four clades of C. auris, with geographically distinct origins, differ in their abilities to colonize murine skin, mirroring epidemiologic findings. The IL-17 receptor signaling and specific arms of immunity protect mice from long-term C. auris skin colonization. We further determine that commonly used chlorhexidine antiseptic serves as a protective and decolonizing agent against C. auris. This translational model facilitates an integrated approach to develop strategies to combat the unfolding global outbreaks of C. auris and other skin-associated microbial pathogens.

First Candida auris Outbreak during a COVID-19 Pandemic in a Tertiary-Care Center in Lebanon

Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen considered as a global health threat. Recently there has been growing concern regarding drug resistance, difficulty in identification, as well as problems with eradication. Although outbreaks have been reported throughout the globe including from several Arab countries, there were no previous reports from Lebanon. We herein report the first cases of C. auris infection from the American University of Beirut Medical Center, a tertiary care center in Lebanon describing the clinical features of the affected patients in addition to the infection control investigation and applied interventions to control the outbreak. Fourteen patients with C. auris infection/colonization identified using MALDI-TOF and VITEK 2- Compact system were reported over a period of 13 weeks. Patients were admitted to four separate critical care units. All of them came through the emergency room and had comorbid conditions. Half of the patients were infected with COVID-19 prior to isolation of the C. auris. C. auris was isolated from blood (two isolates), urine (three isolates), respiratory tract (10 isolates) and skin (one isolate). All the patients had received broad spectrum antibiotics prior to isolation of C. auris. Six patients received antifungal treatment, while the remaining eight patients were considered colonized. Environmental cultures were taken from all four units and failed to isolate the organism from any cultured surfaces. A series of interventions were initiated by the Infection Prevention and Control team to contain the outbreak. Rapid detection and reporting of cases are essential to prevent further hospital transmission. A national standardized infection control registry needs to be established to identify widespread colonization.

Drug Resistance-Associated Mutations in ERG11 of Multidrug-Resistant Candida auris in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Eastern Saudi Arabia

Candida auris is an emerging multi-drug resistant pathogen with high mortality rate; nosocomial infections have been reported worldwide, causing a major challenge for clinicians and microbiological laboratories. The study aims to describe new cases of C. auris and detect drug resistance-associated mutations of C. auris by the sequencing of ERG11 and FKS1 genes. A total of six specimens were collected from blood, urine, ear swab, and groin screening samples. Isolates were incubated for 48 h on Sabouraud Dextrose agar (SDA) at 42 °C, then confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS. Furthermore, antifungal susceptibility testing was performed using the Vitek 2 system to detect Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) of six antifungals. Sequences of 18S rRNA gene and ITS regions from isolates and phylogenetic analysis were performed. Gene sequencing was analysed to detect drug resistance-associated mutations by FKS1 and ERG11 genes sequencing. All C. auris isolates were confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS, and evolutionary analyses using sequences of 18S rRNA gene and ITS region. Antifungal susceptibility testing showed that all isolates were resistant to fluconazole. Sequencing of ERG11 and FKS1 genes from the isolates revealed the presence of two (F132Y and K143R) drug resistance-associated mutations in ERG11, however, FKS1 gene was devoid of mutations. The study sheds light on a public health threat of an emerging pathogen, and the hospital implemented strict contact screening and infection control precautions to prevent C. auris infection. Finally, there is a critical need to monitor the antifungal resistance in different geographical areas and implementation of efficient guidelines for treatment.

Two Cases of the Emerging Candida auris in a university hospital from Saudi Arabia

Candida auris is an opportunistic multidrug-resistant pathogen that was first isolated in 2009 and has since been reported from about 30 countries. In Saudi Arabia, only four cases of C. auris have previously been reported; here, we report two new cases of this infection. Both patients were polymorbid and had long hospitalization periods with recurrent intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. The findings of the tissue/blood cultures and antimicrobial therapy protocols are explained in the case report. Urine culture in both cases was positive for C. auris, and the colonies grew well at 42°C. The fungal isolates were confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The first patient was treated with the recommended dose of caspofungin, but he passed away. The second patient was also planned to be treated with caspofungin, but he passed away before the treatment could be initiated. The present cases further corroborate signs of a growing number of reports of C. auris in patients with high-risk factors, such as hospitalization in ICU, multiple chronic conditions and prolonged antimicrobial treatment exposure. It also highlights the need for hospitals to further improve their infection control practices to prevent nosocomial infections such as C. auris.

Candida auris outbreak involving liver transplant recipients in a surgical intensive care unit

Candida auris is a yeast that is difficult to eradicate and has caused outbreaks in health care facilities. We report a cluster of 5 patients in 1 intensive care unit who were colonized or infected in 2017. The initial 2 patients were recipients of liver transplants who had cultures that grew C auris within 3 days of each other in June 2017 (days 43 and 30 posttransplant). Subsequent screening cultures identified 2 additional patients with C auris colonization. Respiratory and urine cultures from a fifth patient yielded C auris. All isolates were fluconazole resistant but susceptible to echinocandins. Whole genome sequencing showed the strains were clonal, suggesting in-hospital transmission, and related but distinct from New York/New Jersey strains, consistent with a separate introduction. However, no source or contact was found. Two of the 5 patients died. C auris infection likely contributed to 1 patient death by infecting a vascular aneurysm at the graft anastomosis. Strict infection control precautions were initiated to control the outbreak. Our experience reveals that although severe disease from C auris can occur in transplant recipients, outbreaks can be controlled using recommended infection control practices. We have had no further patients infected with C auris to date.

Molecular Epidemiology of Candida Auris Outbreak in a Major Secondary-Care Hospital in Kuwait

The emerging, often multidrug-resistant Candida auris is increasingly being associated with outbreaks in healthcare facilities. Here we describe the molecular epidemiology of a C. auris outbreak during 18 months, which started in 2018 in the high dependency unit (HDU) of a secondary-care hospital in Kuwait. Demographic and clinical data for candidemia and colonized patients were prospectively recorded. Clinical and environmental isolates were subjected to phenotypic and molecular identification; antifungal susceptibility testing by broth microdilution method; PCR-sequencing of ERG11 and FKS1 for resistance mechanisms to triazoles and echinocandins, respectively; and molecular fingerprinting by short tandem repeat (STR) analyses. Seventy-one (17 candidemic and 54 colonized) patients including 26 with candiduria and seven environmental samples yielded C. auris. All isolates were identified as C. auris by Vitek2, MALDI-TOF MS, PCR amplification and/or PCR-sequencing of rDNA. Twelve candidemia and 26 colonized patients were admitted or exposed to HDU. Following outbreak recognition, an intensive screening program was instituted for new patients. Despite treatment of all candidemia and 36 colonized patients, 9 of 17 candidemia and 27 of 54 colonized patients died with an overall crude mortality rate of ~50%. Nearly all isolates were resistant to fluconazole and contained the Y132F mutation in ERG11 except one patient's isolates, which were also distinct by STR typing. Only urine isolates from two patients developed echinocandin resistance with concomitant FKS1 mutations. The transmission of C. auris in this outbreak was linked to infected/colonized patients and the hospital environment. However, despite continuous surveillance and enforcement of infection control measures, sporadic new cases continued to occur, challenging the containment efforts.

Is the superbug fungus really so scary? A systematic review and meta-analysis of global epidemiology and mortality of Candida auris

BACKGROUND

Candida auris is a new pathogen called "superbug fungus" which caused panic worldwide. There are no large-scale epidemiology studies by now, therefore a systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to determine the epidemic situation, drug resistance patterns and mortality of C. auris.

METHODS

We systematically searched studies on the clinical report of Candida auris in Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane databases until October 6, 2019. A standardized form was used for data collection, and then statics was performed with STATA11.0.

RESULTS

It showed that more than 4733 cases of C. auris were reported in over 33 countries, with more cases in South Africa, United States of America, India, Spain, United Kingdom, South Korea, Colombia and Pakistan. C. auirs exhibited a decrease in case count after 2016. Clade I and III were the most prevalent clades with more cases reported and wider geographical distribution. Blood stream infection was observed in 32% of the cases, which varied depending on the clades. Resistance to fluconazole, amphotericin B, caspofungin, micafungin and anidulafungin in C. auris were 91, 12, 12.1, 0.8 and 1.1%. The overall mortality of C. auris infection was 39%. Furthermore, subgroup analyses showed that mortality was higher in bloodstream infections (45%), and lower in Europe (20%).

CONCLUSIONS

Over 4000 cases of C. auris were reported in at least 33 countries, which showed high resistance to fluconazole, moderate resistance to amphotericin B and caspofungin, high sensitivity to micafungin and anidulafungin. The crude mortality for BSI of C. auris was 45% which was similar to some drug-resistant bacteria previously reported. In conclusion, C. auris displayed similar characteristics to some drug resistance organisms. This study depicts several issues of C. auris that are most concerned, and is of great significance for the clinical management.

Candida kefyr in Kuwait: Prevalence, antifungal drug susceptibility and genotypic heterogeneity

Objective

Candida kefyr causes invasive candidiasis in immunocompromised patients, particularly among those with oncohematological diseases. This study determined the prevalence of C. kefyr among yeast isolates collected during 2011–2018 in Kuwait. Antifungal susceptibility testing (AST) and genotypic heterogeneity among C. kefyr was also studied.

Methods

Clinical C. kefyr isolates recovered from bloodstream and other specimens during 2011 to 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. All C. kefyr isolates were identified by CHROMagar Candida, Vitek2 and PCR amplification of rDNA. AST was performed by Etest. Molecular basis of resistance to fluconazole and echinocandins was studied by PCR-sequencing of ERG11 and FKS1, respectively. Genotypic heterogeneity was determined with microsatellite-/minisatellite-based primers and for 27 selected isolates by PCR-sequencing of IGS1 region of rDNA.

Results

Among 8257 yeast strains, 69 C. kefyr (including four bloodstream) isolates were detected by phenotypic and molecular methods. Isolation from urine and respiratory samples from female and male patients was significantly different (P = 0.001). Four isolates showed reduced susceptibility to amphotericin B and one isolate to all (amphotericin B, fluconazole, voriconazole and caspofungin/micafungin) antifungals tested. Fluconazole-resistant isolate contained only synonymous mutations in ERG11. Echinocandin-resistant isolate contained wild-type hotspot-1 and hotspot-2 of FKS1. Fingerprinting with microsatellite-/minisatellite-based primers identified only three types. IGS1 sequencing identified seven haplotypes among 27 selected isolates.

Conclusions

The overall prevalence of C. kefyr among clinical yeast isolates and among candidemia cases was recorded as 0.83% and 0.32%, respectively. The frequency of isolation of C. kefyr from bloodstream and other invasive samples was stable during the study period. The C. kefyr isolates grown from invasive (bloodstream, bronchoalveolar lavage, abdominal drain fluid, peritonial fluid and gastric fluid) samples and amphotericin B-resistant isolates were genotypically heterogeneous strains.

Update on invasive fungal infections in the Middle Eastern and North African region

In the recent years, the epidemiology of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) has changed worldwide. This is remarkably noticed with the significant increase in high-risk populations. Although surveillance of such infections is essential, data in the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) region remain scarce. In this paper, we reviewed the existing data on the epidemiology of different IFIs in the MENA region. Epidemiological surveillance is crucial to guide optimal healthcare practices. This study can help to guide appropriate interventions and to implement antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention and control programs in countries.

Candida auris: a fungus with identity crisis

Candida auris is a new fungal species that has puzzlingly and simultaneously emerged on five continents. Since its identification in 2009, the scientific community has witnessed an exponential emergence of infection episodes and outbreaks in healthcare facilities world-wide. Candida auris exhibits several concerning features compared to other related Candida species, including persistent colonization of skin and nosocomial surfaces, ability to resist common disinfectants and to spread rapidly among patients. Resistance to multiple drug classes and misidentification by available laboratory identification systems has complicated clinical management, and outcomes of infection have generally been poor with mortality rates approaching 68%. Currently, the origins of C. auris are unclear, and therefore, it is impossible to determine whether environmental and climactic changes were contributing factors in its recent emergence as a pathogen. Nevertheless, a robust response involving rapid diagnostics, prompt interventions and implementation of precautions, are paramount in curtailing the spread of  infections by this fungal species. Importantly, there is a pressing need for the development of new antifungal drugs. In this article, we present a brief overview highlighting some of the important aspects of C. auris epidemiology, pathogenesis and its puzzling global emergence.

Cutaneous manifestations of a 21st century worldwide fungal epidemic possibly complicating the COVID-19 pandemic to jointly menace mankind

In view of the new viral COVID-19 pandemic, the fungal Candida auris epidemic still in progress worldwide highlights non-Candida albicans candidal infections. We describe an immunocompetent woman with a cutaneous manifestation of Candida parasilopsis fungemia, a prominent eschar, which proved to be the nidus for the candidemia. We stress the value of selectively removing eschars. C. parasilopsis and C. auris are increasingly important causes of sepsis and wound infections. We emphasize that commercially available biochemical-based tests may misidentify C. auris as C. parapsilosis, and stress the added danger of C. auris to critically ill-hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Any health care facility with evidence of infection or colonization with C. auris requires very close monitoring, since this fungus is a nosocomial threat comparable to SARS-CoV-2 in its mortality and fomite adhesiveness! Both organisms have the potential to be transmitted as nosocomial pathogens; health care workers need to follow strict CDC guidelines. During this COVID-19 pandemic, every health care facility should closely monitor for the possible deadly combination of the SARS-CoV-2 and C. auris. The identification of C. auris necessitates use of sophisticated technology not readily available to make this essential diagnosis since C. auris is multi-drug resistant and isolation precautions would become paramount.

Nine Things Genomics Can Tell Us About Candida auris

Candida auris is a recently emerged multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen causing severe illness in hospitalized patients. C. auris is most closely related to a few environmental or rarely observed but cosmopolitan Candida species. However, C. auris is unique in the concern it is generating among public health agencies for its rapid emergence, difficulty to treat, and the likelihood for further and more extensive outbreaks and spread. To date, five geographically distributed and genetically divergent lineages have been identified, none of which includes isolates that were collected prior to 1996. Indeed, C. auris' ecological niche(s) and emergence remain enigmatic, although a number of hypotheses have been proposed. Recent genomic and transcriptomic work has also identified a variety of gene and chromosomal features that may have conferred C. auris with several important clinical phenotypes including its drug-resistance and growth at high temperatures. In this review we discuss nine major lines of enquiry into C. auris that big-data technologies and analytical approaches are beginning to answer.

Antifungal drug susceptibility, molecular basis of resistance to echinocandins and molecular epidemiology of fluconazole resistance among clinical Candida glabrata isolates in Kuwait

Candida glabrata readily develops resistance to echinocandins. Identification, antifungal susceptibility testing (AST) and resistance mechanism to echinocandins among C. glabrata was determined in Kuwait. C. glabrata isolates (n = 75) were tested by Vitek2, multiplex PCR and/or PCR-sequencing of rDNA. AST to fluconazole, caspofungin, micafungin and amphotericin B was determined by Etest and to micafungin by broth microdilution (BMD). Mutations in hotspot-1/hotspot-2 of FKS1/FKS2 and ERG11 were detected by PCR-sequencing. All isolates were identified as C. glabrata sensu stricto. Seventy isolates were susceptible and five were resistant to micafungin by Etest and BMD (essential agreement, 93%; categorical agreement, 100%). Three micafungin-resistant isolates were resistant and two were susceptible dose-dependent to caspofungin. Four and one micafungin-resistant isolate contained S663P and ∆659 F mutation, respectively, in hotspot-1 of FKS2. Micafungin-resistant isolates were genotypically distinct strains. Only one of 36 fluconazole-resistant isolate contained nonsynonymous ERG11 mutations. Thirty-four of 36 fluconazole-resistant isolates were genotypically distinct strains. Our data show that micafungin susceptibility reliably identifies echinocandin-resistant isolates and may serve as a surrogate marker for predicting susceptibility/resistance of C. glabrata to caspofungin. All micafungin-resistant isolates also harbored a nonsynonymous/deletion mutation in hotspot-1 of FKS2. Fingerprinting data showed that echinocandin/fluconazole resistance development in C. glabrata is not clonal.

Increasing Trends of Reduced Susceptibility to Antifungal Drugs Among Clinical Candida glabrata Isolates in Kuwait

Among non-albicans Candida species, Candida glabrata is the leading cause of invasive infections in critically ill patients. It is intrinsically less susceptible to fluconazole/other azoles that limits therapeutic options. This study determined distribution of C. glabrata in clinical specimens and determined their susceptibility to fluconazole, caspofungin, and amphotericin B by E test. During 8-year period (2011-2018), 1,410 isolates were obtained from 1,410 patients including 600, 409, and 131 isolates from respiratory, urine, and bloodstream specimens, respectively. Proportion of C. glabrata isolates was nearly the same during the two 4-year periods. Demographic details were available from 731 patients and susceptibility data for 1,225 isolates. C. glabrata isolation from bloodstream, respiratory, and urine specimens was higher from elderly (>60 years) versus younger patients. More bloodstream and urine isolates were obtained from female patients, however, more respiratory isolates were recovered from male patients (p = <0.05). Resistance to all three drugs increased during 2015-2018 compared with 2011-2014 but was more pronounced for fluconazole (p = 0.001). More isolates with reduced susceptibility to fluconazole/amphotericin B were obtained from elderly patients versus younger subjects and urine versus respiratory samples (p = <0.05). Our data show increasing trends of reduced susceptibility to antifungals, particularly fluconazole, among clinical C. glabrata isolates in Kuwait. Most isolates with reduced susceptibility to fluconazole/amphotericin B were obtained from elderly patients and urine/respiratory samples with urinary tract appearing as the most favorable niche for antifungal drug resistance development. The study also highlights the need for continued surveillance and better antifungal drug stewardship to control resistance development in C. glabrata.

In Vitro Activity of Ibrexafungerp (SCY-078) against Candida auris Isolates as Determined by EUCAST Methodology and Comparison with Activity against C. albicans and C. glabrata and with the Activities of Six Comparator Agents

Ibrexafungerp (SCY-078) is a novel first-in-class antifungal agent targeting glucan synthase. Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant species that has caused outbreaks on five continents. We investigated the in vitro activity of ibrexafungerp against C. auris by applying EUCAST E.Def 7.3.1 methodology. C. albicans and C. glabrata, as well as anidulafungin, micafungin, amphotericin B, fluconazole, voriconazole, and isavuconazole, were included as comparators. Three C. auris reference strains (CBS12372, CBS12373, and CBS10913) and 122 C. auris, 16 C. albicans, and 16 C. glabrata isolates were evaluated. C. albicans ATCC 64548, C. parapsilosis ATCC 22019, and C. krusei ATCC 6258 served as quality control strains. Echinocandin-resistant isolates were fks sequenced. MIC ranges and modal MIC and MIC₅₀ values were determined. Wild-type upper limits (the upper MIC value where the wild-type distribution ends) were determined according to EUCAST principles for setting ECOFFs. Nine repetitions of three QC strains and MICs for C. albicans and C. glabrata yielded narrow MIC ranges with modal MICs in agreement with established EUCAST modal MICs, confirming a robust test performance. The ibrexafungerp MICs against C. auris isolates displayed a Gaussian distribution with a modal MIC (range) of 0.5 mg/liter (0.06 to 2 mg/liter), suggesting uniform susceptibility. Of 122 isolates, 8 were echinocandin resistant and harbored the S639F Fks1 alteration. All but one were fluconazole resistant, and the MIC distributions for voriconazole and isavuconazole were multimodal confirming variable susceptibility. Ibrexafungerp demonstrated promising activity against C. auris, including isolates resistant to echinocandins and/or other agents. The MICs were similar to those reported for the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute method, suggesting that a common clinical breakpoint may be appropriate.

Candida auris in various hospitals across Kuwait and their susceptibility and molecular basis of resistance to antifungal drugs

BACKGROUND

Candida auris, a multidrug-resistant species, has the propensity of nosocomial transmission despite normal decontamination procedures. Here, we describe the isolation of C auris from patients in various hospitals in Kuwait during 2014-2018. Susceptibility to antifungal drugs and molecular basis of resistance to fluconazole, voriconazole and micafungin were also studied.

METHODS

Candida auris (n = 314) obtained from 126 patients in eight hospitals were studied. All isolates were identified by PCR amplification and/or PCR-sequencing of ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Antifungal susceptibility was determined by Etest. Molecular basis of resistance to fluconazole and micafungin was studied by PCR-sequencing of ERG11 and FKS1 genes, respectively.

FINDINGS

Bloodstream (n = 58), urine (n = 124), respiratory (n = 98) and other (n = 34) specimens yielded 314 C auris isolates. The proportion of bloodstream C auris among all yeast isolates was higher (42 of 307, 13.7%) in 2018 as compared to 2014-2017 (16 of 964, 1.7%) (P = .001). More bloodstream isolates (42 of 139) were cultured in 2018 than during 2014-2017 (16 of 175) (P = .001). Resistance to amphotericin B, fluconazole, voriconazole and micafungin was detected in 27.1%, 100%, 41.1% and 1.7% isolates, respectively. Fluconazole-resistant isolates contained either Y132F or K143R mutation in ERG11. Isolates with K143R mutation were additionally resistant to voriconazole. Micafungin-resistant isolates contained S639F mutation in hot spot 1 of FKS1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights spreading of C auris in major hospitals across Kuwait and its increasing role as a bloodstream pathogen in 2018. Cross-resistance to voriconazole was also seen in isolates with K143R mutation in ERG11, while micafungin-resistant isolates harboured S639F mutation in hot spot 1 of FKS1.

The epidemiology of Candida species in the Middle East and North Africa

In recent decades, the epidemiology of invasive candidiasis (IC) has progressively changed worldwide. This notably includes emergence of several Candida species. Although some surveillance programs provided global trends in IC epidemiology, data from countries from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) remain scarce. In this manuscript, we reviewed the existing available data on the epidemiology of Candida species associated with IC, particularly candidemia, in MENA region regarding species distribution. As witnessed worldwide, an evident shift of Candidaalbicans towards non-albicansCandida (NAC) has been observed in the MENA region. The worrying emergence of multi-drug resistant Candida species in MENA calls for a better understanding of their epidemiology. This represents an essential prerequisite for the implementation of effective infection control strategies and surveillance systems to prevent IC among high-risk patients.

Identification of Drug Resistant Candida auris

Candida auris is a multidrug resistant yeast, recognized as a cause of invasive infections and health care associated outbreaks around the world. C. auris is of great public health concern, due to its propensity for drug resistance, mode and pace of its transmission, and the possibility that biologic and epidemiologic factors could exacerbate worldwide emergence of C. auris infections. Currently, outbreak response is complicated by limited treatment options and inadequate disinfection strategies, as well as by issues (misidentification, long turnaround time) associated with application of commonly used diagnostic tools. Misdiagnosis of C. auris is common since many diagnostic platforms available in clinical and public health laboratories depend on reference databases that have not fully incorporated C. auris. Moreover, the correlation between minimal inhibitory concentration values (MICs) and clinical outcomes is poorly understood resulting in the absence of C. auris-specific breakpoints. New, accurate and fast diagnostic methods have emerged to facilitate effective patient management and improve infection control measures, ultimately reducing the potential for C. auris transmission. This review provides an overview of available C. auris detection/identification and antifungal susceptibility determination methods and discusses their advantages and limitations. A special emphasis has been placed on culture-independent methods that have recently been developed and offer faster turnaround times.

Candida auris-the growing menace to global health

A paradigm shift of candidiasis from Candida albicans to non-albicans Candida species has fundamentally increased with the advent of C. auris. C. auris, despite being a newly emerged multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, is associated with severe invasive infections and outbreaks with high mortality rates. Initially reported from Japan in 2009, C. auris have now been found in different countries on all the continents except Antarctica. Due to its capability of nosocomial transmission and forming adherent biofilms on clinically important substrates, a high number of related hospital outbreaks have been reported worldwide. As C. auris is a multidrug-resistant pathogen and is prone to misidentification by available conventional methods, it becomes difficult to detect and manage C. auris infection and also limits the therapeutic options against this deadly pathogen. The emergence of multidrug-resistant C. auris advocates and amplifies the vigilance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of fungal infections. In this review, we discussed the nine-year-old history of C. auris-its trends in global emergence, epidemiological relatedness, isolation, mortality, associated risk factors, virulence factors, drug resistance and susceptibility testing, diagnostic challenges, microbiological characteristics, therapeutic options and infection prevention and control associated with this pathogen.

The Epidemiology and Prevention of Candida auris

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Candida auris has recently emerged as a pathogen with the potential for nosocomial transmission and outbreaks. The aim of this review is to summarize the global dissemination of this pathogen, characterize patient and facility characteristics associated with infection and outbreaks, and outline evidence to support interventions to prevent of transmission in the healthcare setting.

RECENT FINDINGS

C. auris has emerged separately in four clades, with international spread within a decade of its first identification and report. Acquisition and infection have predominantly been identified as healthcare-associated events. The presence of invasive devices, intensive care, and broad-spectrum antibiotic and antifungal use may be important risk factors for the development of infection due to C. auris. Nosocomial transmission is likely associated with colonization density and suboptimal infection prevention practices. The optimal strategy for reducing transmission from the environment requires further study. Candida auris is a recently emerging fungal pathogen that may cause nosocomial infections and outbreaks. Based on observed transmission patterns and interventions, key prevention measures outlined in the review include case finding and surveillance, hand hygiene, and environmental disinfection.

The emerging pathogen Candida auris: A focus on the Middle-Eastern countries

Recent emergence of Candida auris as a multidrug resistant fungal pathogen, associated with difficult-to-control nosocomial transmission and high mortality, raises serious concerns for public health. Since it was first reported from Japan in 2009, C. auris infections have been diagnosed in several countries from all over the world. However, there is a paucity of reported cases from the Middle East. Literature search resulted in finding only six countries (Kuwait, Israel, Oman, KSA, UAE and Iran) reporting C. auris infections in the past three years. All patients were adults with several underlying comorbidities. Majority of the cases presented with bloodstream infection with crude mortality rate of 60%. All isolates were misidentified as C. haemulonii by commercial systems requiring specialized methods for identification. In vitro antifungal susceptibility testing showed 100% strains to be resistant to fluconazole (MIC 32 ≥ 256 mg/L) while variable resistance against other antifungal agents.

Candida auris otomycosis in Iran and review of recent literature

Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant yeast emerging in immunocompromised and in otherwise healthy individuals. Due to difficulties in microbiological identification of C. auris because of the lack of available laboratory technology in developing countries, the number of patients affected is most likely underestimated. We report the first case of C. auris otitis which now adds Iran as the fifth country around the Persian Gulf, in addition to Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Candida auris is an unknown pathogen in routine laboratories in Iran because most Candida isolates are probably misdiagnosed. Otomycosis seems to be a different clinical presentation of C. auris mainly involving isolates from the East-Asian clade. We compared the mycological and clinical details of the Iranian patient with other cases of otitis reported since the last review of C. auris otomycosis in 2017.

Epidemiologic characteristics of adult candidemic patients in a secondary hospital in Kuwait: A retrospective study

Candida blood steam infection is a life-threatening disease that seems to be under estimated. Understanding epidemiology of such disease is crucial for improved diagnosis, optimized treatment, and better outcome. Through this retrospective study, we aimed to determine the incidence of candidemia in a secondary care hospital, and to describe the epidemiology and outcome of candidemia among adult patients. The incidence of candidemia for all age groups was 0.24, 0.16 and 0.15 cases/1000 patient-days in 2014, 2015 and 2016 respectively. Among adult patients, 82 cases were identified. The patients had the following clinical characteristics with varying proportions: old age, diabetes, antibiotic exposure, use of vascular catheter, abdominal surgery, ICU hospitalization, haemodialysis, and total parenteral nutrition. All-cause 30-day mortality was 54% and ICU hospitalization was a recognized risk factor for death. The leading causative agents were Candida albicans (32%), and Candida parapsilosis (32%), followed by Candida tropicalis (20%), Candida glabrata (13%) and one each by Candida dubliniensis, Candida famata, and Candida auris. Almost all tested isolates were susceptible to caspofungin and amphotericin B. With regard to fluconazole, C. glabrata showed variable susceptibility. Other species were susceptible except one isolate, each of C. parapsilosis and C. auris. The study highlights the growing importance of non-C. albicans Candida species in the etiology of candidemia. Emergence of C. auris is a warning sign and needs to be closely monitored.

Novel multiplex real-time quantitative PCR detecting system approach for direct detection of Candida auris and its relatives in spiked serum samples

The multidrug-resistant opportunistic yeast species of Candida auris, Candida haemulonii, Candida duobushaemulonii and Candida pseudohaemulonii continue to endanger the healthcare settings around the globe. Due to the lack of a specific qPCR assay for detection of these species from clinical samples, we developed a multiplex qPCR assay. Analytical specificity and sensitivity showed 100% specificity and the sensitivity of up to ten genomes of target species with a high value of reproducibility (R² >0.99). Subsequently, from spiked serum samples, our qPCR specifically could detect up to ten genomes of C. auris and one genome of C. haemulonii, C. duobushaemulonii and C. pseudohaemulonii (R² >0.98). Lack of cross reaction with the human DNA, a high degree of specificity and sensitivity, showed the potential of our multiplex PCR for direct detection of C. auris and closely related species from serum samples of suspected patients. Future studies are warranted to assure its applicability in clinical settings.

Antifungal Resistance: Specific Focus on Multidrug Resistance in Candida auris and Secondary Azole Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus

Antifungal resistance is a topic of concern, particularly for specific fungal species and drugs. Among these are the multidrug-resistant Candida auris and azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus. While the knowledge on molecular mechanisms of resistance is now accumulating, further data are also available for the clinical implications and the extent of correlation of in vitro resistance to clinical outcomes. This review article summarizes the epidemiology of C. auris infections, animal models focusing on the activity of novel antifungal compounds in C. auris infections, virulence factors, and the mechanisms of antifungal resistance for this multi-resistant Candida species. Regarding A. fumigatus, the significance of azoles in the treatment of A. fumigatus infections, reference methods available for the detection of resistance in vitro, molecular mechanisms of secondary azole resistance, routes of acquisition, and clinical implications of in vitro resistance are covered to provide guidance for the current status of azole resistance in A. fumigatus.