Short tandem repeat genotyping of Pichia kudriavzevii isolates reveals long-standing clinical clade with high transmission potential.

Short tandem repeat genotyping reveals a long-standing, highly transmissible clinical lineage of Pichia kudriavzevii across hospitals and countries, with 52 genotypes and multiple clusters.

• Why it matters: Understanding transmission pathways of P. kudriavzevii is crucial due to its role in candidemia, intrinsic fluconazole resistance, and potential for nosocomial spread, especially in vulnerable populations like neonates.
• What they did: The study genotyped 106 isolates from Delhi using STR analysis, compared results with global isolates, and confirmed findings with whole genome sequencing, identifying clusters and cross-country links.
• The result: Findings demonstrate multiple nosocomial transmission events in India and a globally distributed lineage with a transmission advantage, highlighting the need for infection control and further research.