Candida Species Diversity in Oral Cavity of Type 2 Diabetic Patients and their In vitro Antifungal Susceptibility

OBJECTIVE: To identify and compare the species variation and Colony Forming Units of the species and antifungal susceptibility from oral rinse samples of individuals in poorly-controlled, moderately-controlled and well controlled diabetes patients with control group. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Study group comprised of well-controlled, moderately-controlled and poorly controlled Type II diabetic patients grouped according to the level of glycated hemoglobin concentration with 50 patients in each group and 50 healthy individuals. Oral rinse samples were collected in a sterile container with phosphate-buffered saline and then transported immediately for various mycological investigations and antifungal susceptibility tests. Statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in frequency of Candida in poorly controlled diabetes when compared to moderately controlled diabetes, well controlled diabetes and normal patients (P = 0.045). A higher number of colony count was seen among poorly controlled diabetes than well controlled, moderately controlled and non diabetic subjects. A comparatively low number of non-albicans were seen in healthy individuals. C. albicans showed an increased resistance to fluconazole in DM patients in comparison to control group (P = 0.001). Other species showed a variable sensitivity pattern. CONCLUSION: The decreased immunity and change in oral habitat in diabetic patients creates a diversification in various species of Candida. These non albicans vary in their susceptibility and pathogenesis. A definite identification of these diverse species in the oral cavity of such patients and their susceptibility mandates proper management to avoid recurrence and drug resistance.