Rising Threat of Candida auris Prompts Innovative Diagnostic and Treatment Approaches
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A concerning surge in candida auris infections, coupled with increasing drug resistance, is driving a wave of innovation in fungal disease diagnostics and therapies, spearheaded by institutions like teh Center for Revelation and innovation (CDI) at Hackensack Meridian. This is part of a new series spotlighting medical institutions and infectious disease programs.
The incidence of Candida auris saw a dramatic 95% increase between 2020 and 2021, according to data tracked by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) using the Premier Healthcare database. This comprehensive electronic healthcare data repository provides critical insights into hospitalization trends related to the infection.
Who is at Risk?
Candida auris primarily affects vulnerable populations, including older adults, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those with multiple underlying medical conditions.Infections are most common in hospitalized patients and residents of long-term care nursing facilities (LTCF), where the fungus can readily colonize. The infection is particularly dangerous due to its frequent multidrug resistance and association with higher mortality rates.
One study, lead by Lyman et al, estimated a crude mortality rate of 34% for patients with Candida auris. Previous research has consistently demonstrated elevated mortality rates among those infected with the fungus.
CDI Pioneers Rapid Diagnostic Tools
The Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI) is at the forefront of combating this emerging threat. In a recent episode of “Media Day,” David Perlin, PhD, chief scientific officer and executive vice president at CDI, discussed the challenges inherent in diagnosing fungal infections.
“We wanted to have a molecular rapid point of care diagnostic to be able to help with patient management,” Perlin stated. his team was among the first to develop a molecular diagnostic specifically for Candida auris, recognizing the limitations of existing commercial testing systems in accurately distinguishing between Candida species. CDI has as expanded its diagnostic capabilities, developing FDA-approved molecular tests for a range of acute disease agents.
Collaborative Efforts for a Holistic Solution
CDI is actively forging partnerships with industry leaders like Cepheid and academic institutions such as Johns Hopkins University to accelerate the growth of both improved diagnostics and novel treatments for Candida. These collaborative projects focus on creating a rapid point-of-care diagnostic tool and exploring immunotherapies targeting Candida infections.
“Collectively, we see trying to create a complete holistic solution for invasive fungal disease, wich starts with diagnostics and then layers on next generation antifungals,” Perlin explained.
Looking ahead, the next episode of “Media Day” will feature Barry Kreiswirth, PhD, discussing strategies for controlling infections in high-risk cancer and transplant patients.
References
- Parkinson J. Tracking Candida Auris. ContagionLive. July 5, 2023. Accessed February 3,2024. https://www.contagionlive.com/view/tracking-candida-auris
- Lyman M, Forsberg K, Sexton D, et al. Worsening Spread of Candida auris in the United States, 2019 to 2021.Ann internal with 2023; 176: 489-495. [Epub 21 March 2023]. doi:10.7326/m22-3469
Reader question: Why is Candida auris so dangerous?
Pro tip: Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for managing Candida auris infections and preventing their spread.
Did you know? Candida auris can survive on surfaces for extended periods, making environmental cleaning and disinfection essential.
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