scope:

This guideline provides an established methodology for disk diffusion testing of select Candida spp. For zone diameter breakpoints, interpretive categories, and recommended QC ranges for caspofungin, micafungin, fluconazole, and voriconazole, refer to CLSI document M60.⁴

The method described is intended for testing select Candida spp. This method is not currently applicable to any other genera and has not been used in studies of the yeast form of dimorphic fungi (eg, Blastomyces dermatitidis or Histoplasma capsulatum). Moreover, testing of filamentous fungi (ie, moulds) is not covered in the current procedure.

The method described in this guideline must be followed exactly to obtain reproducible results. When new problems are recognized or improvements in these criteria are developed, changes will be incorporated into future editions of M44 and new breakpoint information will be distributed in periodic informational supplements (see CLSI document M60⁴).

This guideline is intended for use by, among others, health care, academic, government, industry, or independent research organizations that perform antifungal susceptibility testing of yeasts.