Flucytosine-Resistant Candida tropicalis in Paris
Author Information
Author(s): Desnos-Ollivier Marie, Bretagne Stéphane, Bernède Claire, Robert Vincent, Raoux Dorothée, Chachaty Elisabeth, Forget Elisabeth, Lacroix Claire, Dromer Françoise
Primary Institution: Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
Hypothesis
Could the flucytosine-resistant isolates represent a subgroup of Candida tropicalis?
Conclusion
A clone of flucytosine-resistant Candida tropicalis is widespread in the Paris area and is associated with malignancies and lower mortality than other isolates.
Supporting Evidence
- 35% of Candida tropicalis isolates were found to be resistant to flucytosine.
- The R5FC clone was significantly associated with malignancies.
- Patients infected with the R5FC clone had a lower mortality rate compared to those infected with other isolates.
- Genetic analysis indicated that the R5FC isolates were clonal.
- Resistance was linked to a specific mutation in the URA3 gene.
Takeaway
Some germs that can make people sick are getting stronger and harder to treat. This study found a group of these germs in Paris that are linked to people with cancer but don't make them die as often.
Methodology
Clinical isolates of Candida tropicalis were collected from blood cultures over four years, and their resistance to flucytosine was analyzed using molecular typing and epidemiologic data.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the study being conducted in a specific geographic area and clinical centers.
Limitations
The study was limited to isolates from blood cultures in the Paris area and may not represent other regions.
Participant Demographics
Patients with candidemia, particularly those with malignancies.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.4–10.1
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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