Molecular evaluation of candida species as etiologic agents of onychomycosis

Background and Aim: The aim of the present study is rapid and precise identification of yeast species isolated from nail of patients with clinical features of onychomycosis using PCR-RFLP technique. Methods: 50 patients with involvement of 29 fingernails and 21 toenails were enrolled in the study. Different yeast species were identified by conventional mycological. The PCR-RFLP was tested on yeast isolated and the PCR-RFLP products were separated by electrophoresis in 2% agarose gel, with DNA stain. Results: The main causative agents were yeasts in 12 cases (24%). Candida albicans was the most commonly isolated yeast species followed by Candida parapsilosis (6%), and Candida glabrata (4 %). Conclusion: PCR-RFLP method using ITS1-ITS4 primers and MspI restriction enzymes is a rapid, accurate and cost-effective method for specific diagnosis of the most prevalent candida spp. Its ability to detect low amounts of fungal DNA in patient samples in 6-8 hours could be useful for clinical laboratories for optimal management of these infections.