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An Indian-led study warns
that the fungus "Candida auris" is becoming more dangerous.
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The study says fungus is
spreading across the world.
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"Candida auris"
is resistant to multiple antifungal drugs and has ability to survive on human
skin.
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The research was carried
out by scientists from the University of Delhi working at the Vallabhbhai Patel
Chest Institute.
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The study was done in
collaboration with the US National Institutes of Health.
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Researchers found that
invasive fungal infections are increasing globally. About 6.5 million people
are affected each year.
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Mortality can exceed 50
percent even with treatment.
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The fungus can change its
form from yeast to filamentous growth and this ability helps it spread more.
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Its cell wall proteins
allow it to strongly attach to human skin. Long-term skin colonisation is a
major medical concern.
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Patients carrying the
fungus risk developing severe systemic infections.
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Standard lab tests often
misidentify it as other yeasts. The awareness of this fungal threat is
increasing.
