Disc diffusion test in the identification of Candida species.

A total of 448 clinical isolates and seven reference strains of Candida species were tested for their susceptibility to a group of dyes and chemicals. All strains were also identified by conventional methods. The chemicals/dyes used in the disc diffusion tests were brilliant green, janus green, cycloheximide, fast green, rhodamine 6 G, ethidium bromide and 2, 3, 5 triphenyl tetrazolium chloride. Sensitivity to the chemicals was coded by a seven-figure code. Resistogram patterns obtained were found to be specific for each species. The disc diffusion test was found to be inexpensive, quick and gave reliable results within 18 h.