Clinical Impact of Candida auris in Otology: Prevalence and Surgical Outcomes From a Single-Center Study in Korea

Background: Candida auris is an emerging pathogenic yeast of increasing global concern.This study aimed to explore recent epidemiological trends in C. auris at a single center and evaluate its impact on otologic surgery outcomes.Methods: An epidemiological review was conducted for patients with positive fungal culture results at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital between January 2018 and December 2023.Medical records of patients with C. auris were retrospectively analyzed, focusing on surgical outcomes and comparing them with those of patients infected with other fungi.Results: Of 3,430 fungal cultures from ear discharge, C. auris was identified in 104 cases (3.0%).Among 89 patients with C. auris isolated from ear discharge, 53 (59.6%) had mixed infections, with Staphylococcus species being the most common co-pathogen.Of 207 patients with fungal infections who underwent otologic surgery, 39 had C. auris.The postoperative complication rate was significantly higher in the C. auris group (34.2%) compared to that with other fungal infections (16.1%) (P = 0.011).Conclusion: C. auris is widely distributed in the community and is particularly prevalent in patients requiring surgical treatment.Its presence in otologic surgery cases is linked to a higher risk of postoperative complications.Enhanced vigilance and proactive management by otolaryngologists are crucial to minimize nosocomial transmission and improving surgical outcomes.