Abstract: Candida species under physiological conditions exist as saprophytes, colonizing the skin, digestive, and urogenital tracts. Their presence in the urine may represent contamination, colonization, local or generalized infection. The present study aimed to determine the frequency of isolation of Candida yeasts and their species composition in urine samples of outpatients. Candiduria was found in 97 urine samples of 85 patients. The relative proportion of C. albicans (38%), C. glabrata (24%) and C. kefyr (13%) was the highest. The mean age of the patients was 58.65 years (range 12-92 years) with a female to male ratio 2.70. Data from the literature as well as the results of the current study suggest that candiduria is a finding that should be sought and reported. After the microbiological laboratory has proved it, medical professionals must stratify patients according to the presence or absence of risk factors. Species identification of Candida yeast is important in the selection of antifungal therapy.

Keywords: Candida species, urine, outpatients

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