Characterization of Candida species isolated from clinical specimens: insights into virulence traits, antifungal resistance and molecular profiles.

Background: Candida species have emerged as a significant cause of opportunistic infections. Alongside the expression of various virulence factors, the rise of antifungal resistance among Candida species presents a considerable clinical challenge.

Aim: This study aimed to identify different Candida species isolated from clinical specimens, evaluate their antifungal sensitivity patterns, identify key genes regulating virulence mechanisms using multiplex PCR and to assess any correlation between their virulence profiles and antifungal resistance patterns.