Risk factors associated with <i>Candida auris</i> Candidemia: A single-centre retrospective case–control study

<i>Candida auris</i> has emerged as a major nosocomial pathogen due to multidrug resistance (MDR), outbreak potential, and high mortality in critically ill patients. Identifying risk factors for <i>C. auris</i> candidemia is essential for prevention and infection control. In this single-centre, retrospective case-control study, we analysed adults with <i>C. auris</i> candidemia (n = 52) and matched controls (n = 104) hospitalized between February 2019 and October 2024. Matching was based on hospital unit and blood culture timing. Clinical and epidemiological variables were compared, and multivariate logistic regression identified independent risk factors. Antifungal susceptibility and 14- and 28-day all-cause mortality were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Independent risk factors included recent hospitalization (odds ratio (OR): 7.93), prolonged hospital stay (OR: 1.01), prior broad-spectrum antibiotic use (OR: 46.20), central venous catheter (CVC) (OR: 3.88), sepsis (OR: 9.43), and high Candida Colonization Index (OR: 14.10). All-cause mortality at 14 and 28 days was 30.8% and 46.2%, respectively. Fluconazole resistance was 96%, while 8.7% of isolates were pandrug resistant. <i>C. auris</i> candidemia represents a serious clinical challenge with substantial mortality and modifiable risk factors. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship, colonization surveillance, and early recognition in high-risk patients may reduce its impact.