Use of the VITEK 2 machine for identification and antifungal sensitivity test of Candida spp

Abstract

In patients with compromised immune systems, infections caused by Candida represent a significant source of illness and death; thus, timely and accurate identification is crucial for effective patient care. A Candida isolate was identified using both conventional techniques and the Vitek-2 system. Antifungal susceptibility testing (AST) was conducted with the Vitek-2 system following the guidelines set forth by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. The most commonly identified species of Candida was albicans, followed by tropicalis, krusei, parapsilosis, and glabrata. The average agreement rate between the Vitek-2 system and traditional methods exceeded 94%. Most isolates demonstrated sensitivity to amphotericin B (97.67%) and fluconazole (88.95%). The AST agreement rates for fluconazole and amphotericin B were over 94% and more than 99%, respectively, with statistical significance noted (P < 0.01).