Identification, Distribution and Antifungal Sensitivity of Candida Species in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Abstract

Objective: To identify the distribution pattern and antifungal sensitivity of candida species in vulvovaginal candidiasis to
improve patient safety and provide better health care.
Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in association with
Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Apr 2018 to Sep 2018.
Methodology: The Candida strains were isolated from high vaginal swabs and were cultured on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar
and then stored in glycerol broth. To confirm growth, Gram staining was performed and the documentation was done using
growth pattern on CHROM agar and biochemical testing with API 20 C AUX. The antifungal sensitivity pattern was checked
by disc diffusion method on Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar with drug disks of Nystatin 100 units/disc, Miconazole 10μg,
Fluconazole 25μg (Oxoid), Amphotericin 20μg and Clotrimazole 10μg.
Results: Among 100 collected isolates of candida species 68% were C. albicans and 32% were non-albicans, comprising C.
glabrata 16%, C. tropicalis 8%, C. famata 4 (4%), C. guilliermondii 2 (2%), S. cerevisiae 1 (1%) and C. lusitaniae 1 (1%). Moreover, C.
albicans, C. glabrata (16%), and C. tropicalis (8%) were found to be susceptible to antifungals used in this study, while C. famata
(4%), C. guilliermondii 2 (2%), and S. cerevisiae (1%) revealed maximum resistance against these antifungals.
Conclusion: This study display that C. albicans is greater than non-albicans candida in patients with VVC and non-albicans
candida species are found to be almost completely resistant against commonly prescribed anti-fungal drugs.