Candidiasis and Other Emerging Yeasts.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The review presents a comprehensive and updated information on the contemporary status of invasive candidiasis (IC), other emerging yeast infections, and the challenges they present in terms of at-risk population, specific virulence attributes, and antifungal susceptibility profile.

RECENT FINDINGS

With the advancement in medical field, there has been parallel expansion of vulnerable populations over the past two decades. This had led to the emergence of a variety of rare yeasts in healthcare settings, both and non-Candida yeast causing sporadic cases and outbreaks. The advancements in diagnostic modalities have enabled accurate identification of rare species and non-Candida yeast (NCY) of clinical importance. Their distribution and susceptibility profile vary across different geographical regions, thus necessitating surveillance of local epidemiology of these infections to improve patient outcomes.

SUMMARY

The challenges in management of IC have been complicated with emergence of newer species and resistance traits. has already overtaken in many Asian ICUs, while is rising rapidly worldwide. Recent genomic research has reclassified several yeasts into newer genera, and an updated version of MALDI-TOF MS or ITS sequencing is necessary for accurate identification. Having a knowledge of the differences in predisposing factors, epidemiology and susceptibility profile of already established pathogenic yeasts, as well as new emerging yeasts, are imperative for better patient management.