Evaluation of a novel PCR-based assay for the detection of <i>Candida auris</i> colonization

<i>Candida auris</i> is an important yeast notable for its ability to easily colonize people as well as its drug resistance. Colonized patients who become immunocompromised may ultimately become infected with <i>C. auris</i>, without many options for treatment. Many health care facilities mandate screening patients for colonization with this yeast to help prevent transmission. This work evaluates the recently FDA approved Diasorin Simplexa <i>C. auris</i> PCR based screening assay and compares its performance to cultures, as well as two existing lab-developed assays. It is the first assay performance evaluation outside of the FDA submission.