Characterisation of Candida in Vulvovaginitis Patients with Special Reference to Nonalbicans from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai, India

Abstract

Introduction: Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) is one of the commonest vaginal infections caused by Candida spp. affecting women of reproductive age group. Though Candida spp. is of endogenous origin several host related and behavioural factors can contribute to the development of infection. Candida albicans is the commonest spp. responsible for infection. However, an increasing emergence of Non-albicans Candida (NAC) has led to the development of recurrent infections, treatment failure and complications. Aim: To characterise Candida spp. isolated from clinically suspected cases of VVC. Materials and Methods: It was an observational prospective study done during the period of May 2017 to Oct 2018. A total of 150 vaginal isolates from samples of vaginal discharge were included in the study. Candida spp identification was done by various methods like gram stain, germ tube test, culture on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA), Dalmau culture on corn meal agar, colour differentiation on CHROMagar (Chromogenic agar) and sugar assimilation tests. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used for statistical analysis. Results: Women of age group 26-35 years were most commonly affected population. Candida albicans (49.3%) and NAC (50.7%) both were present in almost equal number. The commonest isolate found was Candida albicans (49.3%) followed by Candida glabrata (29.3%) and Candida tropicalis (21.4%). Conclusion: Highest infection rate (54%) was seen in the women of age group 26-35 years. Candida albicans being the commonest spp. As NAC are emerging rapidly, speciation will play a vital role in appropriate selection of antifungal agents for the treatment of fungal infections prior to the initiation of therapy.

Keywords

• chromogenic agar
• fungal infections
• speciation
• vaginal candidiasis