Abstract

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of Candida species in primary endodontic infections in addition to its biofilm forming ability and antifungal susceptibility.

After consenting of 100 patients, microbiological samples were obtained using paper points from the main canal in single-rooted teeth and largest canal or canal with periapical radiolucency in multi-rooted teeth with primary endodontic infections. Samples were cultured onto Sabouraud's dextrose agar with chloramphenicol and CAN2 chromogenic agar plates and tested for culture and sensitivity. Congo red agar plate was used to test for biofilm formation. Antifungal susceptibility testing was then performed against Amphotericin B, Fluconazole, Voriconazole, Caspofungin, Micafungin, and Flucytosine to measure the minimal inhibitory concentration by the automated VITEK-2 System for yeast according to CLSI. Candida species was present in 15% of the patients. Candida albicans showed significantly higher biofilm forming ability than candida tropicalis.

Candida albicans and candida tropicalis were susceptible to all antifungal drugs tested. Candida Krusie was resistant to fluconazole. C. albicans might play a role in primary endodontic infection and intracanal biofilm formation.