In vitro evaluation of hydrolytic enzyme activity and biofilm formation of Candida parapsilosis species complex from a nosocomial environment

• Published in: Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical
• Main Authors: Shaiana Paula-Mattiello, Sílvia Dias de Oliveira, Renata Medina-Silva
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical (SBMT)
• Subjects: Candida parapsilosis complex; Biofilm; Hydrolytic enzymes; Arctic medicine. Tropical medicine; RC955-962; Arctic
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1590/0037-8682-0032-2017; https://doaj.org/article/d032bd7da078480b89b4755598452972

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Candida parapsilosis complex species, frequently found in hospital environments, have gained importance as etiological agents of candidemia. METHODS: Candida parapsilosis complex isolates from a nosocomial environment were identified and their hydrolitic enzyme activity and ability to form biofilm were characterized. RESULTS: Twenty-two C. parapsilosis sensu stricto isolates produced proteinase and three produced phospholipase. Most Candida metapsilosis isolates produced proteinase and one also produced phospholipase. All 29 isolates formed biofilms. CONCLUSIONS: The nosocomial environment may act as a reservoir for C. parapsilosis complex isolates with phenotypic features that could possibly lead to nosocomial infections and health complications in hospital patients.