Candida parapsilosis is a non-albicans Candida species associated with urinary tract infections and wound infections.
Urinary tract infections: Candida parapsilosis is another non-albicans species that can cause urinary tract infections, particularly in neonates and inviduals with urinary catheters. It is known for its ability to form biofilms on medical devices, contributing to persistent infections. Although less common than C. albicans, its clinical significance is rising, especially in ICU settings, warranting its inclusion in PCR-based detection panels (Trofa et al 2008, Silva et al. 2012).
Wound infections: Candida parapsilosis is a fungus commonly found on human skin that can cause wound infections, especially after surgery or in burn wounds especially in immunocompromised or hospitalized patients. Inclusion of C. parapsilosis in a PCR wound panel is justified because it is an emerging cause of wound and tissue infections (Turkal & Baumgardner 1995, Trofa et al. 2008)
Trofa D, Gácser A, Nosanchuk JD. Candida parapsilosis, an emerging fungal pathogen. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2008 Oct;21(4):606-25. doi: 10.1128/CMR.00013-08. PMID: 18854483; PMCID: PMC2570155.
Silva S, Negri M, Henriques M, Oliveira R, Williams DW, Azeredo J. Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis and Candida tropicalis: biology, epidemiology, pathogenicity and antifungal resistance. FEMS Microbiol Rev. 2012 Mar;36(2):288-305.
Turkal, N. W., & Baumgardner, D. J. (1995). Candida parapsilosis infection in a rose thorn wound. The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice, 8(6), 484–485.
