Genetically distinct strains of Candida albicans with elevated secretory proteinase production are associated with diarrhoea in hospitalized children

Background: Candida albicans has been implicated as the aetiological agent in a significant percentage of children with diarrhoea. The virulence prope rties of C. albicans strains associated with acute and chronic diarrhoea in hospitalized children were investigated. Methods: The genotypic relationships between the isolates were determined u sing restriction enzyme analysis and hybridization with a C. albicans-speci fic DNA probe, 27A. Results and Conclusion: In patients with acute and chronic diarrhoea, there is evidence for selection of specific, genetically distinct strains of C. albicans. Higher levels of secretory Candida acid proteinase produced by is olates from patients with acute diarrhoea may account for the more severe s ymptoms. However, the lower adherence of these isolates may predispose to t he rapid (within 2 to 4 days) resolution of the condition. In patients with chronic diarrhoea the lower levels of proteinase produced correlate with t he less severe symptoms, while the increased adherence may account for the persistence of the infection. (C) 2000 Blackwell Science Asia Pty Ltd.