An update on clinically relevant, rare, and emerging Candida and Saccharomycotina yeasts that have been recently reclassified from Candida.

Abstract

SUMMARYMany yeast species causing life-threatening invasive infections that were formerly classified in the genus Candida have been reclassified due to their evolutionary and phylogenetic relationships elucidated by DNA sequencing methods that are increasingly using whole genomes. This review explores the evolving taxonomy, epidemiology, and clinical implications of clinically relevant, rare, emerging Candida and Saccharomycotina yeasts that have recently been reclassified from Candida. This article highlights the urgent need for intensified research efforts to enhance knowledge and improve outcomes in the management of infections caused by these yeasts. Communicating results from molecular phylogenetic studies of yeasts, which lead to their reclassification, is of great importance to the medical mycology community to implement such results in clinical practice.