Abstract :
Background: Candidiasis predominantly impacts individuals with compromised immune systems, resulting in opportunistic infections that can present in various forms (e.g., skin lesions or systemic involvement). Species of Candida are often recognized as significant pathogens in such instances. Biofilm formation serves as a crucial virulence factor, enhancing the organism's adherence to host tissues and facilitating its proliferation. The secretion of proteinases is thought to augment the organism's capacity to colonize and penetrate host tissues, while also evading immune responses. Additionally, phospholipases may greatly assist in the invasion of host tissues during candidiasis lesions by disrupting epithelial cell membranes. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify Candida species from clinical samples, as well as to evaluate the distribution of virulence factors among species.
Materials and Methods: A total of sixty Candida isolates were gathered from patient samples for this investigation. The evaluation of virulence markers associated with various Candida species—including phospholipase, proteinase and biofilm production—was performed using phenotypic assessment techniques. However, challenges arose during the analysis, which complicates the interpretation of results. Although the study was thorough, some limitations were encountered because of the inherent variability within clinical samples.
Results: Among the 60 isolates examined, the species that was most prevalent was Candida albicans, which accounted for 67% of the isolates. Candida parapsilosis followed closely, comprising 24% of the total. The rates of occurrence for various virulence factors across different Candida species were notable: 65% for proteinase production, 55% for biofilm formation and 50% for phospholipase production. Moreover, Candida growth was predominantly observed in individuals aged between (50 and 81) years, at a rate of 75%.
Conclusion: The virulence factors linked to Candida such as biofilm, proteinase and phospholipase—exhibit variability that is related to species and host immunity. Early detection is crucial (because it aids in evaluating invasiveness and informing clinical decision-making).
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