3034. PCR. Candida (albicans+krusei+glabrata, u/g scraping)

PCR testing for Candida albicans, glabrata, and krusei from urogenital swabs is a sensitive method for detecting yeast fungi that cause vulvovaginal candidiasis. It allows for differentiation between Candida species, which influences treatment decisions.

Yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida are one of the most common causes of vulvovaginal candidiasis, an infection that primarily affects women of reproductive age. The main symptoms are:

• itching;
• burning;
• cheesy or thick white discharge;
• discomfort in the vagina or external genitalia.

Candida albicans is the primary causative agent, but in cases of relapse or chronicity, non-standard strains such as Candida glabrata and Candida krusei are increasingly being identified.

These species have specific susceptibility patterns to antifungal medications:

• C. glabrata – is often weakly susceptible to fluconazole;
• C. krusei – is naturally resistant to fluconazole, making standard treatment ineffective.

Why is PCR important?

Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most modern and accurate method for diagnosing candidiasis. It is aimed at:

• detection of fungal DNA even at low levels or in asymptomatic patients;
• identification of the specific Candida species, which is impossible with conventional microscopy or even some culture tests;
• determination of the cause of recurrent or resistant candidiasis when other tests are inconclusive.

The study is performed from a urogenital scraping (from the vagina or cervix), which ensures maximum sensitivity and specificity.

• Women with typical symptoms of candidiasis (itching, burning, cottage cheese-like or thick discharge).
• In cases of recurrent or chronic candidiasis, especially after several courses of treatment.
• In cases of ineffective fluconazole or empirical antifungal therapy.
• Pregnant women – if symptoms are present or before childbirth (to prevent neonatal candidiasis).
• Women planning a pregnancy, particularly before IVF.
• Before gynecological procedures, IUD insertion, or hysteroscopy – to rule out latent fungal infections.

• Scrapes from various sites depending on the test

Women