Early identification of candiduria by polymerase chain reaction in high risk patients.

Overview

PURPOSE: Polymerase chain reaction amplification of Candida albicans deoxyribonucleic acid was evaluated as a diagnostic tool for candiduria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Urine from 120 patients was tested for C. albicans 158 base pair deoxyribonucleic acid by polymerase chain reaction. The study groups included 30 patients with positive urine cultures, 60 critically ill patients and 30 healthy volunteers. RESULTS: All patients with proved candiduria had a positive polymerase chain reaction. Of the 60 critically ill patients 5 (8.3%) had a positive polymerase chain reaction for C. albicans 24 to 48 hours before identification with routine fungal culture. No healthy volunteer had a positive polymerase chain reaction. CONCLUSIONS: Polymerase chain reaction amplification is an effective laboratory tool for the early diagnosis of candiduria.