Antifungal susceptibility and comparative analysis of biofilm production and metabolic activity in Candida spp. isolated from clinical samples

Candida, known as a commensal yeast in the oral and vaginal canals, can also cause a range of opportunistic diseases. Its ability to form biofilms is what underlies its infectious pathogenicity. This research aimed to examine clinical Candida isolates regarding their ability to form biofilms and their susceptibility to antifungal drugs. Samples from vaginal and oral sites were collected and identified using phenotypic tests such as CHROMagar, and carbohydrate assimilation. Total biofilm biomass and metabolic activity were assessed using crystal violet staining and tetrazolium salt reduction, respectively. Out of 120 Candida species isolated, C. albicans was the most common (85%), followed by C. glabrata (12.5%), C. dubliniensis (1.67%), and C. tropicalis (0.83%). The majority of isolates showed high sensitivity to fluconazole (93.3%), followed by amphotericin B (79.2%). A significant correlation was observed between biofilm biomass and metabolic activity, with non-albicans Candida strains exhibiting the highest biofilm formation, followed by C. albicans strains. These findings emphasize the importance of considering these factors when managing Candida infections.