Insights into the Clinico-etiological Aspects and Outcome of Patients with Candidemia in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Year Long Study

INTRODUCTION: Candidemia is an important risk factor for morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. AIM: This study aims at studying the clinico-etiological profile, species distribution, antifungal resistance pattern and outcome of patients with candidemia in ICU. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective observational study done in all patients with candidemia over the past 1 year. RESULTS: A total of 43 candidemia cases were identified during the study period. The most common species identified were Candida parapsilosis (27.9%) followed by Candida auris (20.9%). Non-albicans Candida species accounted for 83.7% of cases. Azole resistance was observed in 32.6% of cases. The most common comorbidities associated were renal disorders (48.8%), followed by diabetes mellitus (32.6%) and liver diseases (25.6%). Intravenous steroid use was seen in 23% of cases and 4.6% (2 out of 43) of patients received total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The mortality rate was 30.2%. There was no significant difference in mortality between antifungal-resistant and sensitive strains. CONCLUSION: The study reveals a significant shift in the distribution of Candida species, with non-albicans Candida accounting for 83.7% of the cases. Azole resistance was observed in 32.6% of the cases, and despite the high resistance, there was no significant difference in mortality between resistant and sensitive strains. This underscores the evolving nature of candidemia and highlights the need for continuous surveillance and tailored antifungal therapies.