Improving detection of Candida auris with high sensitivity, multi-site screening

Professor Joseph Meletiadis, Head of the Mycology Unit at Attikon University General Hospital, Greece, emphasizes a critical principle in controlling Candida auris: effective screening is key.

This multidrug-resistant fungus can rapidly colonize patients and persist in healthcare settings, making early identification essential for timely infection prevention. Melatiadis outlines a structured approach that begins with prioritizing high-risk patients, such as those with prolonged hospitalization, critical illness, immunosuppression, or prior antimicrobial exposure, followed by optimizing laboratory workflows to maximize detection.

Crucially, screening must go beyond a single sample, requiring testing from multiple anatomical sites to accurately identify where patients are colonized. The use of appropriate culture media is vital to detect even low-level presence, while molecular methods such as PCR and LAMP further enhance sensitivity and speed. Together, this integrated workflow enables more reliable detection and supports prompt infection control measures, including isolation and cohorting.

Real-world experience from Greece demonstrates how combining risk-based screening with robust diagnostics can significantly improve management of this emerging pathogen.

To learn more about the challenges in identification, treatment and infection control of Candida auris, download this whitepaper: Comprehensive screening of Candida auris (Candidozyma auris) to prevent healthcare-associated infections.

Interview recorded at ESCMID Global 2026.