RESUMEN
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.
Asunto(s)
Biopelículas/crecimiento & desarrollo , Candida/enzimología , Péptido Hidrolasas/biosíntesis , Fosfolipasas/biosíntesis , Candida/aislamiento & purificación , Candida/metabolismo , Ambiente de Instituciones de Salud , HidrólisisRESUMEN
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.