Analysis of the distribution and antifungal susceptibility of Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida isolated from human blood culture

Background Candidaemia is a growing concern worldwide, and its species distribution has shifted toward non-albicans Candida in recent decades, especially in patients with malignancy. The population continues to age worldwide, especially in developing countries and among groups with high socioeconomic status. Aims This study aimed to analyse the Candida species and associated antifungal susceptibility in one region of Korea. Methods From December 2014 to June 2018, 126 specimens of Candida species from blood cultures were analysed using various methods. We used VITEK 2 to perform the blood culture and the R statistical program for analysis. In addition, an antifungal susceptibility test was performed. Results C. albicans was detected in 51 (40.5 per cent), C. glabrata and C. tropicalis in 24 (19.0 per cent), and C. parapsilosis in 16 (12.7 per cent) specimens. The mean age of patients with C. albicans was 63.8 years and that of patients with non-albicans Candida was 65.6 years. We performed an antifungal susceptibility test using six agents, and eight (6.3 per cent) specimens exhibited antifungal resistance. The data showed that C. albicans was the most commonly detected species. Moreover, a large proportion of the elderly subjects were infected with C. albicans, and the rate of antifungal agent resistance was as high as 6.3 per cent. Conclusion Our study indicates that C. albicans was the most commonly detected species and the infection rate was high among elderly patients. Therefore, clinics should remain vigilant, and preparedness levels must be increased in regions with a high percentage of elderly people.