Candida psilosis Complex

Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto is a common fungal pathogen of low birth weight infants. Together with the less frequently clinically encountered pathogens C. orthopsilosis and C. metapsilosis they compose the C. parapsilosis sensu lato species complex. These yeasts are associated with humans, but typically do not damage individuals with a competent immune system; however, mild to severe manifestations of disease may occur in susceptible patients. Studies presented to date regarding the species complex focus mostly on virulence factors, secreted enzymes, adhesion properties, host receptors and secreted cytokines. This article will review our current knowledge of the C. parapsilosis sensu lato species complex.