Abstract
is an emerging multi-drug resistant pathogen with high mortality rate; nosocomial infections have been reported worldwide, causing a major challenge for clinicians and microbiological laboratories. The study aims to describe new cases of
and detect drug resistance-associated mutations of
by the sequencing of
and
genes. A total of six specimens were collected from blood, urine, ear swab, and groin screening samples. Isolates were incubated for 48 h on Sabouraud Dextrose agar (SDA) at 42 °C, then confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS. Furthermore, antifungal susceptibility testing was performed using the Vitek 2 system to detect Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) of six antifungals. Sequences of
gene and ITS regions from isolates and phylogenetic analysis were performed. Gene sequencing was analysed to detect drug resistance-associated mutations by
and
genes sequencing. All
isolates were confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS, and evolutionary analyses using sequences of
gene and ITS region. Antifungal susceptibility testing showed that all isolates were resistant to fluconazole. Sequencing of
and
genes from the isolates revealed the presence of two (F132Y and K143R) drug resistance-associated mutations in
, however,
gene was devoid of mutations. The study sheds light on a public health threat of an emerging pathogen, and the hospital implemented strict contact screening and infection control precautions to prevent
infection. Finally, there is a critical need to monitor the antifungal resistance in different geographical areas and implementation of efficient guidelines for treatment.