Evaluation of phenotypic methods for speciation of Candida and in vitro production of virulence factors from Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Background: Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) is an extremely common infection in women of all strata of society. In order to colonize, infect and evade host defense mechanisms, Candida possesses a repertoir of virulence attributes which includes adhesion factors, phenotypic switching and extra cellular lipolytic and proteolytic activity. VVC can be caused by both Candidia albicans and nonalbicans Candida (NAC). However identification is laborious and intricate by traditional methods in rural laboratories. Aim: Study was performed to evaluate the performance of a chromogenic medium for identification of Candida and also to study their virulence properties like phospholipase, proteinase, hemolysin and biofilm production. Methods: A total of 40 Candida isolates from VVC was processed by both conventional and CHROM agar. These isolates were further tested for virulence factors such as phospholipase, proteinase, haemolysin and biofilm. Results: There was 100% agreement in identification of isolates by conventional and chromogenic medium. The isolates demonstrated phospholipase activity in 52.5%, caseinase in 50%, haemolysin in 25% and biofilm in 100%. Conclusion: Data suggested CHROM agar could be used in rural settings. Our study showed that capacity of all Candida spp to fabricate biofilm reveals the pathogenic potential of the isolates.