Candidiasis
What is it?
Candidiasis (also known as moniliasis) is a fungal infection that may affect the mouth, vagina, gastrointestinal tract, skin, nails, or mucous membranes throughout the body. The infection can spread from the genitals or mouth to other moist regions of the body. Normally, the body harbors a small amount of the fungus Candida albicans, in addition to some harmless bacteria that compete with this fungus and thus keep it under control. If the number of suchbacteria diminish for any reason (with the use of antibiotics, for example), the fungus may grow without restriction and begin to cause symptoms.
Candidiasis occurring in the vagina—familiarly known as a yeast infection—is very common and tends to recur, but it is not serious. However, among drug addicts and immunosuppressed or other seriously ill people, the Candida fungus may enter the bloodstream and invade the kidneys, heart, or brain, although this is rare.
What Causes It?
- The use of antibiotics may kill the bacteria that normally keep the fungus in check.
- Oral contraceptives or pregnancy may disrupt the normal acidity and moisture of the vagina, thus promoting a yeast infection.
- Patients with diabetes mellitus are at greater risk of Candida infections.
- A weakened immune system may encourage the growth of the fungus. Those taking immunosuppressant drugs or undergoing chemotherapy and people with AIDS or other immune disorders are especially susceptible.
Prevention
- Women should wear cotton undergarments. Nylon fibers, which do not "breathe," create a warm, moist environment that may encourage fungal growth.
- Douche or use feminine hygiene sprays only when so advised by your doctor.
- Avoid sexual intercourse with a partner infected with C. albicans until the infection is cured.
- Women prone to candidiasis and using oral contraceptives should consider another birth control method.
- Pregnant women in the third trimester should be examined for candidiasis to avoid spreading an infection to the baby.
- Those prone to Candida infections of the skin should keep their skin as dry as possible.D I A G N O S I S
- Analysis of skin scrapings, vaginal discharge, or pus is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
- Blood or tissue cultures may be required.
Diagnosis
- Analysis of skin scrapings, vaginal discharge, or pus is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
- Blood or tissue cultures may be required.
How to Treat It
- For candidiasis of the vagina, penis, mouth, or throat, your doctor may prescribe antifungal creams, suppositories, or tablets. Preparations for vaginal yeast infections are also available over the counter but consider seeing a doctor before initial use.
- Intravenous antifungal drugs may be prescribed in severe cases of candidiasis of the mouth, digestive system, or other internal organs.
When to Call a Doctor
- Call a doctor if you experience any symptoms of candidiasis.
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Copyright © 2008 Medletter Associates, LLC
Content excerpted from Johns Hopkins Symptoms and Remedies: The Complete Home Medical Reference.