Candida auris (C. auris) Specialists in Karnataka
Candida auris is an emerging, often multidrug-resistant fungus that presents a serious global health threat, particularly in healthcare settings. It can cause s…
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What is Candida auris (C. auris)?
Candida auris is an emerging, often multidrug-resistant fungus that presents a serious global health threat, particularly in healthcare settings. It can cause severe invasive infections in hospitalized patients.
Severe
Thousands of cases reported globally; rapidly spreading in over 30 countries
Yes
Causes of Candida auris (C. auris)
Caused by the fungus Candida auris. Spreads easily in healthcare facilities through contact with contaminated surfaces and equipment. Risk factors include prolonged hospitalization, immunocompromised state, previous antibiotic use.
Symptoms of Candida auris (C. auris)
Fever and chills that don't improve after antibiotic treatment. Symptoms depend on site of infection: bloodstream, wound, or ear infections. Often asymptomatic colonization on skin.
Treatment & Types of Candida auris (C. auris) in Karnataka
Echinocandin antifungals (anidulafungin, caspofungin, micafungin) are first-line treatment. Many strains are resistant to fluconazole and amphotericin B.
Candida auris infections are classified by site — bloodstream infection (the most serious form), wound infections, ear infections, and asymptomatic skin colonization without active infection — and importantly by antifungal susceptibility pattern, since many strains show resistance to one or more classes of antifungal medication, which directly determines treatment choice.
Infectious Disease Specialists in Karnataka (0)
No specialists listed yet in Karnataka — browse all doctors instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Candida auris dangerous for healthy people?
It mainly causes serious infections in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients; healthy people are generally at low risk but can carry it on their skin without symptoms and spread it to vulnerable patients.
Why is this fungus considered such a serious threat?
Many strains are resistant to multiple standard antifungal medications, and it can survive on hospital surfaces and spread easily between patients, making outbreaks difficult to control.
How is it treated if standard antifungals don't work?
Echinocandin antifungal medications are typically used as first-line treatment, since many strains remain susceptible to this class even when resistant to others.
Can it be picked up just from being in a hospital?
Yes, it spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces, equipment, or healthcare workers' hands, which is why strict infection control practices are essential in hospitals.
Does having it on my skin mean I'm sick?
Not necessarily — colonization without symptoms is common, though it still requires precautions since it can be transmitted to others and, in some hosts, cause active infection.