Candida spp. species distribution and biofilm patterns in women of childbearing age: an epidemiological study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/issn.2176-7262.rmrp.2025.221162Palabras clave:
Candidiasis, Vulvovaginitis, Candida albicans, BiofilmsResumen
Purpose: This study aimed to carry out the isolation and phenotypic characterization of Candida spp. in the microbiota of women of childbearing age Methods: It was isolated Candida spp. from the microbiota of women of childbearing age by sampling of vaginal contents from asymptomatic and symptomatic women aged 18 to 55 years during a routine consultation in a gynecological office. Demographic data, laboratory tests, vaginal pH assessment, Nugent score, and Pap smear were collected. The isolates were evaluated for biofilm formation. Results: In total, 101 patients were included. Approximately 27% of the samples of vaginal secretion demonstrated the presence of Candida spp. Candida albicans was the most common species isolated in symptomatic patients, however, non-albicans Candida species such as Candida tropicalis and Candida krusei were isolated from asymptomatic patients. Recurrent candidiasis and pH contributed to the presence of Candida spp. in the samples (p<0.05), while age and altered microbiota were relevant in the development of vulvovaginal candidiasis (p<0.05). About 97% of them were able to form biofilms. Candida spp. composes the microbiota of symptomatic and asymptomatic women of childbearing age, and its characterization brings benefits regarding the pathogenesis of the disease and the development of treatment strategies. The culture method remains the best way to indicate the presence of Candida spp. in the vaginal microbiota. Conclusion : Different profiles of Candida spp. between asymptomatic and symptomatic women were found. Thus, the vaginal microbiota aspect is important for clinical practice, since vaginal dysbiosis is associated with several pathologies of the female reproductive system.
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Derechos de autor 2026 Letícia Suzano Lelis Bellusci, Crislaine dos Santos Ferreira, Jéssica Kaori Okada, Nathalia dos Santos Souza, Karolinny Cristiny de Oliveira Vieira, Daniela Vanessa Moris de Oliveira, Valéria Cataneli Pereira, Lizziane Winkelstroter
Esta obra está bajo una licencia internacional Creative Commons Atribución 4.0.
