C. auris Screen - Provincial
Discipline
Microbiology
Overview
Description
- Candida auris (C. auris) is an emerging fungal pathogen that can cause colonization to severe infection in hospitalized patients. Some strains of this yeast are resistant to all 3 classes of antifungal agents typically used to treat candidiasis patients. C.auris spreads among hospitalized patients in healthcare settings. Screening is recommended in select patients by Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC).
Ordering Recommendations
- Symptomatic patients with travel history to affected areas as determined by Public Health/IPAC
- Screening for colonization in cases of suspected transmission to control spread of this organism in healthcare settings.
- Lives with someone or has been a roommate in hospital with someone who is positive for C.auris
Specimen Information
Specimen types accepted
- A single bilateral swab of a patient’s axilla and groin.
- Single swabs of previously colonized or clinically relevant sites may also be indicated (for example: wounds, exit sites of devices, external ear canal).
Specimen collection container
- Liquid-based E-swab collection system (preferred) or M-40 Transystem swabs.
Transport and stability
Transport at room temperature, as soon as possible. If delay anticipated, keep specimen at 4°C.
- Room temperature stability 48h
- 4°C stability 4 days
Testing Information
Relevant clinical history
- Received health care outside of Canada (includes all medical visits, regardless of type or length) in the past 12 months
Performance
Methodology
- Chromagar plating followed by MALDI-TOF MS identification
Days/times performed
Availability
- Test only available in RGH and RUH Microbiology laboratories
Maximum laboratory time
Result reporting
- 48-72 h from being received at the testing lab
Specimen retention time
- 7 days after culturing
Last Updated: April 17, 2024