Study of biofilm production and its correlation with antifungal resistance among Candida species isolated from suspected cases of Tuberculosis

Production of the biofilm may be considered as a virulence factor because it shows resistance towards many antimicrobial agents. Candida albicans is the most commonly isolated fungal pathogen and cause severe secondary infections in immuno-compromised population, including tuberculosis patients. This study was aimed to speciate Candida isolates, production of biofilm and its antifungal susceptibility pattern.

Totally 178 sputum specimens were screened by RNTCP Unit were included in the study. The clinical isolates of candida were identified by using conventional methods and their ability to produce biofilm formation was detected by the tube method. Antifungal susceptibility testing was carried out by direct susceptibility method using CHROM agar.

Out of 178 sputum samples, Candida albicans 26 (72.2%) was the predominant species isolated. Strong biofilm production was seen with Candida albicans (47.2%), Candida parapsilosis (8.3%) and C.kruseii (5.5%) whereas C.dubliniensis (2.7%) was found to be weak biofilm producer. The biofilm positivity was found more with C.albicans (47.2%) as compared to Non-albicans Candida (18.1%). Antifungal resistance by Candida strains for Itraconazole, Nystatin, and Amphotericin B about 33.3%, 19.4% and 8.3% respectively.