Candidemia diagnosed within the Hassan II University Hospital in Fez

Introduction: Candidemia are yeast infections of the candida type that are relatively common in intensive care and are burdened with a high mortality rate that has not decreased for decades. The aim of this work is to determine the frequency of candidaemia and to identify the epidemiological profile of the Candida species most implicated in these infections. Materials and methods: This is a descriptive retrospective study over a period of 5 years and 7 months, spanning from January 2017 to July 2022, and involving all blood cultures of patients hospitalized at the CHU Hassan II in Fez. The samples were inoculated into Mycosis IC/F bottles and incubated for 7 days in the BD Bactec® automaton. 37°C. The identification of yeasts was based on morphological, phenotypic, biochemical and sometimes immunological criteria. This identification is followed by the realization of an antifungigram. Results: During the study period, 145 blood cultures were performed, 42 of which were positive for candida. 69% of patients were hospitalized in intensive care. The female sex (52.3%) was more affected than the male sex (47.6%) with an average age of 31 years. The frequency of candidaemia is estimated at 28.9%. They were mainly caused by Candida non albicans (64.2%) including Candida glabrata 33.3%, Candida tropicalis 29.6%, Candida parapsilosis 20%, Candida krusei 18.5% and Candida lusitaniae 3.7%. While Candida albicans was positive in 15 patients. Sensitivity to amphotericin B and fluconazole was 89% and 70% respectively. Conclusion: Candidemia is a frequently fatal opportunistic infection. The proper use of antifungals is essential to better understand changes in the distribution of Candida species and limit the emergence of resistance