Drug-Resistant Fungus Alert: Candida auris
Context
An Indian-led study has warned that Candida auris, a drug-resistant fungal pathogen, is becoming increasingly virulent and spreading rapidly across the globe, with high mortality rates reported even after antifungal treatment.
Overview of Candida auris
Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen responsible for severe invasive infections, particularly in hospitalised and immunocompromised individuals. Since its first identification in 2009, it has emerged as a major global public health concern due to frequent treatment failures.
Habitat and Persistence
The fungus is predominantly found in healthcare environments such as hospitals and long-term care facilities. It can survive for extended periods on human skin, medical instruments, and hospital surfaces, facilitating outbreaks.
Clinical Manifestations
Clinical symptoms vary depending on the site of infection and often resemble bacterial sepsis, making early diagnosis difficult. Common features include persistent fever, chills, hypotension, tachycardia, and bloodstream infections (candidemia).
Distinctive Characteristics
- Extensive drug resistance: Resistant to multiple antifungal drug classes, narrowing therapeutic options.
- Enhanced virulence: Mortality rates frequently exceed 50% despite medical intervention.
- Phenotypic adaptability: Ability to shift between yeast and filamentous forms aids tissue invasion.
- Immune escape mechanisms: Rapid adaptation to host immune defences and environmental stress.
Routes of Transmission
Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected or colonised individuals, including asymptomatic carriers. Indirect spread happens via contaminated surfaces, medical equipment, and invasive devices such as catheters and ventilators.
Conclusion
The rapid global spread, high mortality, and multidrug resistance of Candida auris underscore the urgent need for strengthened infection control measures, enhanced surveillance, rapid diagnostics, and sustained research into novel antifungal therapies.
Source : DD News