What are the common causes of candida skin infections. How can you recognize the symptoms of cutaneous candidiasis. What treatment options are available for fungal skin infections.

Understanding Candida Skin Infections: An Overview

Candida infection of the skin, medically known as cutaneous candidiasis, is a common fungal infection caused by various species of Candida yeast. These microscopic organisms naturally reside on human skin, but under certain conditions, they can overgrow and cause infections. The most frequent culprit is Candida albicans, although other species can also be responsible.

Cutaneous candidiasis can affect various parts of the body, particularly warm, moist areas prone to friction. While it’s generally not a serious condition, it can cause discomfort and may indicate underlying health issues in some cases.

What makes candida infections unique?

Unlike many other skin conditions, candida infections are caused by fungi rather than bacteria or viruses. This distinction is crucial because it affects both the diagnosis and treatment approach. Candida fungi are opportunistic pathogens, meaning they can take advantage of weakened immune systems or disrupted skin barriers to cause infections.

The Causes and Risk Factors of Candida Skin Infections

Several factors can contribute to the development of cutaneous candidiasis:

• Warm, moist environments
• Poor hygiene
• Tight-fitting clothing
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Weakened immune system
• Antibiotic use
• Steroid therapy
• Chemotherapy

Understanding these risk factors is essential for both prevention and treatment of candida skin infections.

How does diabetes increase the risk of candida infections?

Diabetes can significantly increase the risk of developing cutaneous candidiasis. High blood sugar levels provide an ideal environment for Candida fungi to thrive. Additionally, diabetes can impair the immune system’s ability to fight off infections, making individuals more susceptible to fungal overgrowth.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Cutaneous Candidiasis

Identifying the symptoms of a candida skin infection is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Common signs include:

• Intense itching
• Red, growing skin rash
• Rash in skin folds, genitals, and other warm, moist areas
• Infection of hair follicles resembling pimples
• Scaling or flaking of the affected skin
• Burning or soreness in the infected area

It’s important to note that symptoms can vary depending on the location of the infection and the individual’s overall health status.

What distinguishes candida rashes from other skin conditions?

Candida rashes often have a characteristic appearance that sets them apart from other skin conditions. They typically present as red, inflamed patches with defined borders, often accompanied by satellite lesions (smaller spots near the main affected area). The rash is usually more pronounced in skin folds and can have a moist, shiny appearance.

Diagnosing Candida Skin Infections: What to Expect

If you suspect you have a candida skin infection, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Visual examination of the affected area
2. Medical history review
3. Skin scraping or swab for laboratory analysis
4. Blood tests to check for underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes)

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other skin conditions or identify specific Candida species.

Why is proper diagnosis crucial for effective treatment?

Accurate diagnosis is vital because many skin conditions can mimic the appearance of cutaneous candidiasis. Misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective treatment and potentially worsen the condition. By identifying the specific cause, healthcare providers can prescribe the most appropriate treatment, reducing the risk of complications and recurrence.

Treatment Options for Candida Skin Infections

The treatment of cutaneous candidiasis typically involves a combination of topical antifungal medications and lifestyle modifications. Common treatment approaches include:

• Topical antifungal creams or ointments (e.g., clotrimazole, miconazole)
• Oral antifungal medications for severe or resistant cases
• Keeping the affected area clean and dry
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing
• Addressing underlying conditions (e.g., managing diabetes)

The duration of treatment can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s response to therapy.

How effective are over-the-counter antifungal treatments?

Over-the-counter antifungal treatments can be effective for mild cases of cutaneous candidiasis. However, it’s important to use them as directed and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. In some cases, prescription-strength medications may be necessary for complete resolution of the infection.

Preventing Recurrence: Long-Term Management Strategies

Preventing recurrence of candida skin infections is an important aspect of long-term management. Key strategies include:

• Maintaining good personal hygiene
• Keeping skin dry, especially in prone areas
• Wearing breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics
• Managing underlying health conditions
• Avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use
• Using probiotics to support a healthy microbiome

By implementing these preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing recurrent candida skin infections.

Can dietary changes help prevent candida overgrowth?

While the impact of diet on cutaneous candidiasis is not fully understood, some evidence suggests that certain dietary changes may help prevent candida overgrowth. These include reducing sugar and refined carbohydrate intake, consuming probiotic-rich foods, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support immune function.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Candida Skin Infections

While many cases of cutaneous candidiasis can be managed with over-the-counter treatments, there are situations where professional medical care is necessary. Seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment
• The infection spreads to large areas of the body
• You develop fever or other systemic symptoms
• You have a weakened immune system
• You have diabetes or other chronic health conditions
• The infection occurs in sensitive areas (e.g., genitals, face)

Prompt medical intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

How can you differentiate between mild and severe candida infections?

Mild candida infections typically involve localized symptoms and respond well to topical treatments. Severe infections may spread to larger areas, cause intense discomfort, or be accompanied by systemic symptoms. If you’re unsure about the severity of your infection, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance.

The Connection Between Candida and Other Health Conditions

Cutaneous candidiasis can sometimes be an indicator of underlying health issues. Conditions associated with an increased risk of candida infections include:

• Diabetes
• HIV/AIDS
• Autoimmune disorders
• Chronic stress
• Hormonal imbalances
• Certain medications (e.g., long-term corticosteroid use)

Understanding these connections can help healthcare providers identify and address potential underlying causes of recurrent candida infections.

How does candida overgrowth affect overall health?

While cutaneous candidiasis primarily affects the skin, systemic candida overgrowth can have broader health implications. Some researchers suggest that chronic candida overgrowth may contribute to various symptoms, including fatigue, digestive issues, and brain fog. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between candida and these systemic effects.

In conclusion, candida skin infections are common but manageable conditions. By understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms, and implementing appropriate treatment and prevention strategies, individuals can effectively manage cutaneous candidiasis and maintain healthy skin. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals for persistent or severe infections, as they can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

Candida infection of the skin Information | Mount Sinai

Skin infection – fungal; Fungal infection – skin; Skin infection – yeast; Yeast infection – skin; Intertriginous candidiasis; Cutaneous candidiasis

Candida infection of the skin is a yeast infection of the skin. The medical name of the condition is cutaneous candidiasis.

This microscopic film shows a fluorescent stain of Candida. Candida is a yeast (fungus) that causes mild disease, but in immunocompromised individuals it may cause life-threatening illness. (Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

This child has a large rash caused by candidiasis, affecting the skin around the mouth. There are also other lesions that aren’t connected to the large lesion, called satellite lesions.

Fungal infections are caused by microscopic organisms (fungi) that can live on the skin. They can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers.

Causes

The body normally hosts a variety of germs, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body, some produce no harm or benefit, and some can cause harmful infections.

Some fungal infections are caused by fungi that often live on the hair, nails, and outer skin layers. They include yeast-like fungi such as candida. Sometimes, these yeast penetrate beneath the surface of the skin and cause infection.

In cutaneous candidiasis, the skin is infected with candida fungi. This type of infection is fairly common. It can involve almost any skin on the body, but most often it occurs in warm, moist, creased areas such as the armpits and groin. The fungus that most often causes cutaneous candidiasis is Candida albicans.

Candida is the most common cause of diaper rash in infants. The fungi take advantage of the warm, moist conditions inside the diaper. Candida infection is also particularly common in people with diabetes and in those who are obese. Antibiotics, steroid therapy, and chemotherapy increase the risk of cutaneous candidiasis. Candida can also cause infections of the nails, edges of the nails, and corners of the mouth.

Oral thrush, a form of candida infection of the moist lining of the mouth, usually occurs when people take antibiotics though only a small number of people who take antibiotics get thrush. It may also be a sign of an HIV infection or other weakened immune system disorders when it occurs in adults. Individuals with candida infections are not usually contagious, though in some settings people with weakened immune systems may catch the infection. When it occurs in the mouth or vagina, it is sometimes called mucocutaneous candidiasis.

Candida is also the most frequent cause of vaginal yeast infections. These infections are common and often occur with antibiotic use.

Symptoms

Candida infection of the skin can cause intense itching.

Symptoms also include:

• Red, growing skin rash
• Rash on the skin folds, genitals, middle of the body, buttocks, under the breasts, and other areas of skin
• Infection of the hair follicles that may look like pimples

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin. Your provider may gently scrape off a sample of skin for testing.

Older children and adults with a yeast skin infection should be tested for diabetes. High sugar levels, seen in people with diabetes, act as food for the yeast fungus and help it grow.

Treatment

Good general health and hygiene are very important for treating candida infections of the skin. Keeping the skin dry and exposed to air is helpful. Drying (absorbent) powders may help prevent fungal infections.

Losing weight may help eliminate the problem if you are overweight.

Proper blood sugar control may also be helpful to those with diabetes.

Antifungal skin creams, ointments, or powders may be used to treat a yeast infection of the skin, mouth, or vagina. You may need to take antifungal medicine by mouth for severe candida infections in the mouth, throat, or vagina.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Cutaneous candidiasis often goes away with treatment, especially if the underlying cause is corrected. Repeat infections are common.

Possible Complications

These complications may occur:

• Infection of the nails may cause the nails to become oddly shaped and may cause an infection around the nail.
• Candida skin infections may return.
• Widespread candidiasis may occur in people with weakened immune systems.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if you develop symptoms of cutaneous candidiasis.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Fungal diseases: candidiasis. www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/index.html. Updated June 28, 2022. Accessed January 3, 2023.

James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Diseases resulting from fungi and yeasts. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 15.

Lionakis MS, Edwards JE. Candida species. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 256.

Last reviewed on: 12/4/2022

Reviewed by: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Associate Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Associate in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Candidiasis of the Skin: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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Candidiasis is a fungal skin infection. Home remedies and lifestyle changes often help, but antifungal cream or powder may be necessary.

Different types of bacteria and fungi live and grow on your skin. Most of them aren’t dangerous. Your body requires the majority of them to carry out normal functions. However, some can cause infections when they begin to multiply uncontrollably.

The Candida fungus is one of these potentially harmful organisms. When an overgrowth of Candida develops on the skin, an infection can occur. This condition is known as candidiasis of the skin, or cutaneous candidiasis.

Candidiasis of the skin often causes a red, itchy rash to form, most commonly in the folds of the skin. This rash may also spread to other areas of the body. While the symptoms are often bothersome, they can usually be treated with improved hygiene and antifungal creams or powders.

The main symptom of candidiasis of the skin is a rash. The rash often causes redness and intense itching. In some cases, the infection can cause the skin to become cracked and sore. Blisters and pustules may also occur.

The rash can affect various parts the body, but it’s most likely to develop in the folds of the skin. This includes areas in the armpits, in the groin, between the fingers, and under the breasts. Candida can also cause infections in the nails, edges of the nails, and corners of the mouth.

Other conditions that may resemble candidiasis of the skin include:

• ringworm
• hives
• herpes
• diabetes-related skin conditions
• contact dermatitis
• seborrheic dermatitis
• eczema
• psoriasis

Candidiasis of the skin develops when the skin becomes infected with Candida. A small amount of Candida fungi naturally live on the skin. When this type of fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, however, it can cause an infection. This may occur because of:

• warm weather
• tight clothing
• poor hygiene
• infrequent undergarment changes
• obesity
• the use of antibiotics that kill harmless bacteria that keep Candida under control
• the use of corticosteroids or other medications that affect the immune system
• a weakened immune system as a result of diabetes, pregnancy, or another medical condition
• incomplete drying of damp or wet skin

Candida fungi thrive and grow in warm, moist areas. This is why the condition often affects areas where there are folds of skin.

Babies can also develop candidiasis of the skin, especially on the buttocks. A diaper tends to provide an ideal environment for Candida.

Candidiasis of the skin usually isn’t contagious. However, people with weakened immune systems may develop the condition after touching the skin of an infected person. Those with compromised immune systems are also more likely to develop a severe infection as a result of candidiasis.

Your doctor will likely be able to make a diagnosis simply by performing a physical examination. During the exam, they’ll inspect the location of your rash and the appearance of your skin.

Your doctor may also want to perform a skin culture before making a diagnosis of candidiasis of the skin. During a skin culture, your doctor will rub a cotton swab over the affected area and collect a skin sample. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory to be tested for the presence of Candida.

Candidiasis of the skin can usually be prevented with home remedies, the most important of which is proper hygiene. Washing the skin regularly and drying the skin thoroughly can prevent the skin from becoming too moist. This is vital to keeping Candida infections at bay.

There are many lifestyle changes you can make to both prevent and treat a candidiasis infection.

Helpful tips

• Quickly change out of damp clothing, such as swimsuits or sweaty workout clothes.
• Change your socks and undergarments regularly.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Use gentle and scent-free soap on affected areas.
• Add probiotics to your diet.
• Reduce the amount of sugar in your diet.

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Since abnormal blood sugar levels can contribute to the development of Candida infections, keeping your blood sugar under control may also help relieve symptoms. You may be able to lower your blood sugar by reducing the amount of sugar in your diet and by exercising for 30 minutes at least three times per week. If you have diabetes, it’s important to continue following your doctor’s instructions as you may need to start receiving oral medications or an increased amount of insulin.

In severe or persistent cases of candidiasis, your doctor may recommend using an antifungal cream or powder that can be applied to your skin. Over-the-counter antifungal creams that are often recommended include clotrimazole (Mycelex), miconazole (Monistat), and tioconazole (Vagistat). This type of treatment can kill Candida and reduce the spread of the infection.

Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream such as nystatin or ketoconazole if the over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective. If the infection has already spread to areas inside your body, such as your throat or mouth, you may need to take an oral antifungal to get rid of it.

Cutaneous candidiasis (or candidiasis present on skin, nails, or hair) is a common occurrence in infants and babies.

Candidiasis-related diaper rash is one of the most frequently occurring candidiasis infections in babies. This rash is typically red with a well-defined border, and normally lasts more than three days. Treatment includes changing the infant’s diaper frequently and allowing them to wear loose-fitting clothes on top of the diaper. The antifungal nystatin may be prescribed.

Oral thrush is another common occurrence in newborns and infants under 6 months old. Symptoms can include cracked skin in the corners of the mouth and whitish patches on the lips, tongue, or inside of the cheeks. Your doctor can prescribe an antifungal medication that’s applied to the infant’s mouth several times a day.

If candidiasis infection is left untreated, it can enter the bloodstream and spread. See your doctor if you believe your baby has candidiasis.

Learn more: Oral thrush »

Although healthy children have strong immune systems, a 2010 study found that the rate of topical fungal infections among children is increasing rapidly. Children sometimes develop candidiasis infections after receiving antibiotics that treat another condition. Children who suck their thumbs may be prone to developing candidiasis infections in or around their nail beds.

If your child is 9 months or older and has reoccurring thrush or skin infections, this could point to an underlying health concern, such as HIV or another problem with the immune system. Older children with frequent or severe skin infections should also be tested for diabetes.

Candidiasis of the skin usually goes away with treatment, and most people fully recover without complications. If treated, the candidiasis typically resolves within one to two weeks. Without prescription treatment, recovery can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the infection.

Even with treatment, it is possible for the infection to return in the future. People with compromised immune systems, especially those undergoing chemotherapy and those with HIV or AIDS, are at a much higher risk of severe or life threatening Candida infections. If you’re undergoing chemotherapy or you have HIV or AIDs and you develop severe throat pain, headache, or high fevers, you should see your doctor immediately.

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Skin candidiasis – daily symptoms in children and adults, diagnosis and treatment

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Fungus

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26 April

Candidiasis of the skin: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Definition

Skin candidiasis is an infectious skin disease caused by microscopic fungi of the genus Candida (most often Candida albicans ).

Causes of skin candidiasis

Candida albicans is believed to be the cause of almost 70-80% of cases of candidiasis. In addition to it, C. glabrata , C. tropicalis , C. krusei , and C. Dubliniensis , can cause skin candidiasis, but incomparably less often.

The fungus Candida is normally present on the skin and mucous membranes without causing harm. However, with a prolonged increase in humidity, thermal exposure and violation of the protective mechanisms of the skin, the pathogen begins to multiply rapidly.

There are risk factors that contribute to the manifestation of skin candidiasis:

• hot weather,
• tight clothing made of synthetic fabrics,
• non-compliance with personal hygiene,
• violation of microflora as a result of antibiotic therapy,
• inflammatory processes in skin folds,
• taking corticosteroids and immunosuppressants,
• diabetes mellitus and other endocrine disorders (eg, Cushing’s disease), HIV/AIDS, or T cell defects.

Classification

• Candidal lesions of the lips and mouth.
• Smooth skin lesion.
• Damage to large folds.
• Interdigital candidiasis.
• Candidal lesions of the palms and soles.
• Candidal balanoposthitis.
• Chronic generalized candidiasis (candidiasis granuloma).

There are several forms of candidiasis:

• Carriage. There are no clinical manifestations of candidiasis.
• Sharp. Accompanied by itching, rashes.
• Chronic. Characterized by the remission of symptoms and their re-manifestation. It develops in case of improper and prolonged treatment with antibiotics.

Symptoms of skin candidiasis

The disease is manifested by small vesicles, sometimes with purulent contents, which open with the formation of erosions. Erosions quickly increase, merge with each other, forming extensive areas of damage. Foci of candidiasis have a dark red color and a moist surface. Fresh small erosions form around large foci. In children, the first signs of candidiasis usually appear in the folds of the skin, from where they already spread to the skin of the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. There may be painful cracks in the depth of the folds.

Candidiasis of smooth skin in children may resemble seborrheic dermatitis with itchy nodules and erosions. In adults, the disease can manifest as red spots with peeling in the center and small vesicles along the periphery.

Interdigital candidal erosion is observed mainly in persons who have prolonged contact with water, which contributes to skin maceration (waterlogging of the skin with its characteristic swelling). Patients are concerned about itching, burning, and in the presence of cracks – soreness.

In lactating women, candidiasis of the smooth skin of the nipples may develop in the form of hyperemia, maceration and small bubbles in the areola of the nipple.

Candidiasis of the palms can proceed according to the type of dry lamellar dyshidrosis (surface lamellar peeling) and have a vesicular-pustular form (vesicles and pustules against the background of hyperemic and edematous skin). Less commonly, the disease resembles hyperkeratotic eczema – against the background of diffuse hyperkeratosis or individual areas of keratinized skin, sharply demarcated wide skin furrows are observed that have a dirty brown color.

Candidiasis of the skin of the soles is observed mainly in children and is characterized by the presence of small vesicles and pustules, hyperemic spots with peeling and exfoliating waterlogged epidermis along the edges.

In chronic generalized (granulomatous) candidiasis, clinical manifestations on the skin can be varied.

Candida balanoposthitis (an inflammatory disease that affects the glans penis and the inner layer of the foreskin) can be mild with slight lamellar peeling or be more pronounced when there is hyperemia, maceration, erosion on the skin of the glans penis and the inner layer of the preputial sac, as well as in the coronary sulcus on the adjacent surfaces. Erosions can merge and form foci with clear boundaries and a shiny surface. Subjectively, patients are concerned about itching and burning. The disease can be complicated by ulceration and the development of phimosis.

Diagnosis of skin candidiasis

On examination, the doctor reveals inflamed areas of the skin, delimited by waterlogged epidermis.

The diagnostic search algorithm for candidiasis of any localization includes taking material from the affected area, followed by microscopy, seeding to determine the type of fungus and its sensitivity to antimycotic (antifungal) drugs.

Candida, determination of DNA (Candida albicans, DNA) in skin epithelial cell scrapings.

Candida, determination of DNA (Candida albicans, DNA) in scraping of epithelial skin cells

Synonyms: Candida DNA in a scraping of epithelial skin cells; Scraping of epithelial skin cells for candida.

Candida albicans, DNA testing; Candida albicans REAL-TIME PCR DNA, scraping of skin epithelial cells; . ..

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Determination of antibodies of the IgG class to Candida.

Candida IgG

An indicator of the immune response used in the diagnosis of invasive forms of candidiasis.

Fungi of the genus Candida (most often Candida albicans) are ubiquitous. They are present…

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The quantitative determination of Candida is of diagnostic value, since the presence of a small number of Candida fungi is the norm.

Identification of the causative agent of skin candidiasis and determination of its sensitivity to antifungal drugs is carried out by sowing the scraping biomaterial.

Yeast Culture. Identification and Antimycotic Susceptibility testing (Yeast Culture. Identification and Antimycotic Susceptibility testing)

Isolated pathogens: yeast-like fungi (genus Candida, Cryptococcus and others). Material for examination: depending on the type of suspected infection, urine is examined…

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With candidiasis of smooth skin of large folds and outside the folds, the disease should be differentiated from seborrheic eczema, psoriasis and other mycoses.

Which doctors to contact

A dermatologist is engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of skin candidiasis.

Treatment of skin candidiasis

Small lesions of smooth skin can be treated with topical antimycotic (antifungal) agents.

In recent years, azole preparations with a wide spectrum of action, as well as polyene antibiotics, have been used in the treatment of candidiasis.

In case of candidiasis of smooth skin of large folds with acute inflammation, treatment should be started with the use of an aqueous solution of brilliant green (1-2%) in combination with powder and carried out for 2-3 days. Then antimycotic drugs are prescribed: a cream or ointment is applied in a thin layer to the lesions 1-2 times a day. Treatment is continued until resolution of clinical manifestations, plus another 7 days to prevent relapse.

With widespread processes on the skin and the ineffectiveness of local therapy, antifungal agents of systemic action are prescribed: The duration of therapy is 2-4 weeks.

Complications

With a long course, the acute form of candidiasis can turn into a chronic one, which is extremely difficult to treat.

Prevention of skin candidiasis

There is no specific prevention of candidiasis of the skin. Of the generally accepted means of prevention, it should be noted the standard skin hygiene, the priority of underwear and clothing made from natural fabrics.

Sources:

1. Butov Yu.S. Dermatovenereology. National leadership. Brief edition / ed. Yu.S. Butova, Yu.K. Skripkina, O.L. Ivanova – M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2017. – 896 p.
2. Infectious diseases. National leadership / N.D. Yushchuk, Yu.Ya. Vengerov. – M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2018. – 1112 p.
3. Zachinyaeva A.V. Medical mycology / Zachinyaeva A.V., Moskalev A.V., Andreev V.A., Sboychakov V.B. – M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2018. – 288 p.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

Skin candidiasis. What is skin candidiasis?

IMPORTANT
The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.

Skin candidiasis is a superficial skin lesion caused by fungi of the genus Candida. Skin candidiasis presents as red and edematous lesions with vesicles, papules, and erosions. Most often, the process is localized in the skin folds of the axillary and inguinal regions, in the interdigital spaces and under the mammary glands. The diagnosis of candidiasis of the skin is confirmed by the detection of Candida fungi on microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Treatment is carried out by local, and if necessary, general, use of antifungal drugs.

• Causes of skin candidiasis
• Classification of skin candidiasis
• Symptoms of skin candidiasis
• Diagnosis of skin candidiasis
• Treatment of skin candidiasis
• Prices for treatment

General

Recently, there has been an increase in the incidence of fungal infections in general and skin candidiasis in particular. The disease occurs in people of absolutely any age from newborns to the elderly. Since Candida fungi are opportunistic flora and are present in the body of a healthy person, their transition to a pathogenic state with the development of skin candidiasis can signal abnormalities occurring in the body and, first of all, a decrease in immunity.

skin candidiasis

Causes of skin candidiasis

For most people, Candida enters the body in the first year of life. Further fungi are present in the human body as a natural flora. Candidiasis of the skin develops in the case of the transition of fungi from a saprophytic state to a pathogenic one. This may be due to endogenous causes, that is, with changes in the body of the person himself. For example, metabolic disorders (dysproteinemia, obesity, diabetes mellitus), imbalance of the intestinal microflora in dysbacteriosis, decreased immunity, weakening of the body’s defenses against the background of chronic infections, increased sweating, vitamin deficiency can lead to the development of skin candidiasis. Certain types of drug therapy can lead to changes that contribute to the onset of skin candidiasis: treatment with cytostatics or corticosteroids, antibiotic therapy.

It is possible to develop skin candidiasis as a result of exogenous causes, that is, environmental factors that enhance the pathogenic properties of Candida fungi. One of these factors is humidity. The fact is that Candida develops well in a humid environment and at the same time can turn into a pathogenic state. So skin candidiasis is often affected by pool and bath workers, washers and housewives often in contact with water. Elevated ambient temperature, which promotes sweating and maceration of the skin, can also be the cause of skin candidiasis. A favorable environment for the development of pathogenic fungi Candida exists in the confectionery industry and in the canning industry, where, in addition to a large number of fungi in the external environment and raw materials, there is a constant maceration of the skin of the hands of workers with sugary substances, citric, malic and other acids.

Classification of skin candidiasis

There are the following types of candidiasis of the skin:

• candidal intertrigo – candidiasis of large skin folds;
• genital candidiasis;
• candidiasis of the skin of the interdigital spaces of the feet and hands;
• candidal folliculitis – a fungal infection of the hair follicles of the armpit, and in men in the beard and mustache area, occasionally occurs on the scalp;
• dressing skin candidiasis – with increased skin moisture under a plaster cast or on the back in bedridden patients;
• diaper candidiasis – in infants in the perineum.

Symptoms of skin candidiasis

Skin candidiasis begins with the appearance of areas of redness on it with some swelling and various elements of the rash: papules, pustules, vesicles. After the opening of the elements, weeping erosions are formed, which merge to form clearly demarcated lesions with scalloped edges. The erosion surface is shiny and smooth, has a characteristic whitish coating. On the periphery of the foci of skin candidiasis, there are separate seropapules, edematous-erythematous spots, vesicles and pustules. Most often, skin candidiasis begins with large skin folds: between the buttocks, in the armpits, under the mammary glands, in the groin.

Depending on the clinical picture, erythematous and vesicular forms of skin candidiasis are distinguished. In the erythematous form, edematous-erythematous foci with areas of erosion predominate. The vesicular form is characterized by the presence of a large number of vesicles, pustules and papules against the background of inflamed skin.

Candidiasis of the skin can take a chronic relapsing course. In this case, the manifestations described above occur during an exacerbation several times a year and are more common. Chronic candidiasis is more difficult to treat. In severe cases, against the background of concomitant diseases and severe immune disorders, chronic candidiasis can turn into a generalized form with osteoporosis, anemia, recurrent bronchitis and pneumonia, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and other internal organs.

Interdigital candidiasis of the skin is more often observed in preschoolers and adults working in gardens and orchards. It is manifested by maceration foci with edematous and red skin, along the periphery of which there are vesicles and papules. For employees of vegetable stores and confectionery factories, localization of skin candidiasis between III and IV or IV and V fingers is typical. Candidiasis of the skin of the genital organs is often combined with candidal vaginitis, balanoposthitis and balanitis.

Diagnosis of skin candidiasis

The fastest and easiest way to diagnose fungal etiology of skin lesions is to identify characteristic oval cells with elements of pseudomycelium by direct microscopy of scrapings for pathogenic fungi taken from the affected area of ​​the skin. Preliminary data can be obtained by PCR diagnostics, immunofluorescence reaction (RIF) and enzyme immunoassay (ELISA). The quantitative determination of Candida is of diagnostic value, since the presence of a small number of Candida fungi is normal for the microflora of the human body. Accurate identification of the causative agent of skin candidiasis and determination of its sensitivity to antifungal drugs is carried out by sowing the scraping material on Sabouraud’s medium.

Additionally, to identify concomitant diseases and infections in skin candidiasis, the following can be prescribed: a clinical blood test, determination of blood sugar and urine, an immunogram, a test for HIV infection, etc. If necessary, differential diagnosis of skin candidiasis with eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis of the skin folds, favus, recurrent genital herpes, lupus erythematosus, etc.

Treatment of skin candidiasis

The basis of the course treatment of skin candidiasis is the appointment of antifungal drugs. These include: antifungal antibiotics (nystatin, amphotericin B, natamycin, levorin), medicines of the azole group (ketoconazole, isoconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole, econazole, fluconazole) and other drugs (flucytosine, dequalinium chloride, ciclopirox, terbinafine, naftifine, undecylenic acid preparations).