A yeast isolated from a blood culture of a febrile neutropenic patient forms true germ tubes when incubated in serum at 37 degrees Celsius for 2 to 3 hours. This finding identifies the isolate as:

• A Candida albicans ✓
• B Candida glabrata
• C Candida krusei
• D Candida tropicalis

Explanation

Germ tube formation in serum at 37 degrees within 3 hours is a rapid diagnostic test specific for Candida albicans, and Candida dubliniensis is the rare exception that can also be positive. Candida glabrata and Candida krusei never form germ tubes and are notable for intrinsic or reduced susceptibility to fluconazole, which matters therapeutically in this neutropenic setting. Candida tropicalis forms pseudohyphae but no germ tube.

Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.