Pathogenicity and virulence of <i>Candida auris</i>

Candida auris (Candidozyma auris) has emerged as a multidrug‑resistant human fungal pathogen that causes infections of high morbidity and mortality. Notably, it exhibits a unique ability to grow and persist on human skin, thus leading to efficient transmission through skin-to-skin contact. As a result, C. auris poses a significant risk of outbreaks in healthcare settings, especially in nursing homes that care for elderly patients. Most concerning, C. auris clinical isolates demonstrate widespread and, in some cases, untreatable resistance to all antifungal drug classes, including azoles, polyenes (amphotericin B), and echinocandins. Consequently, invasive C. auris infections cause high mortality rates (30–60%) even with antifungal therapy. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of candidiasis caused by C. auris, discussing both host and pathogen determinants of skin colonization, as well as key challenges associated with preventing dissemination and management of disseminated fungal infections.