What are the different types of candidiasis. How does Candida affect various parts of the body. What are the risk factors for developing a yeast infection. How can you prevent and treat candidiasis effectively. What are the latest trends in Candida infections and antifungal resistance.

The Prevalence and Impact of Candidiasis: A Growing Concern

Candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by various species of Candida yeast, has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. This condition can affect multiple parts of the body, leading to a range of symptoms and potential complications. Understanding the scope and impact of candidiasis is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

According to recent statistics, candidemia (bloodstream infections caused by Candida) incidence in the United States has shown notable trends. While there was a decline during 2008-2013, the rate has since stabilized at approximately 9 cases per 100,000 population during 2013-2017. This stabilization suggests that while progress has been made in combating these infections, they remain a significant health concern.

Demographic Disparities in Candidiasis Infections

Interestingly, candidiasis rates vary significantly across different demographic groups. Recent data indicates that rates have decreased among infants and the elderly between 2009 and 2012, but have remained relatively stable since then. What factors contribute to these age-related trends? Possible explanations include changes in prophylaxis guidelines and improved infection control practices, such as enhanced hand hygiene and catheter care protocols.

Moreover, racial disparities in candidiasis rates have been observed. Candidemia rates are approximately twice as high in Black individuals compared to non-Black populations. This discrepancy raises important questions about underlying factors, including differences in:

• Underlying health conditions
• Socioeconomic status
• Access to healthcare
• Healthcare availability

These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and further research to address these disparities and improve outcomes for all populations affected by candidiasis.

The Evolving Landscape of Candida Species: Implications for Treatment

The world of Candida infections is not static; it’s constantly evolving. Up to 95% of all invasive Candida infections in the United States are caused by five primary species: C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei. However, the distribution of these species is not uniform across geographic regions or patient populations.

While C. albicans remains the leading cause of candidemia in the United States, there’s been a notable shift in recent years. Non-albicans species are increasingly responsible for a larger proportion of cases, now accounting for approximately two-thirds of candidemia infections. This trend is particularly concerning because many of these non-albicans species exhibit resistance to common antifungal drugs.

The Emergence of Candida auris: A New Threat

Since 2015, a new player has entered the scene: Candida auris. This emerging species has been causing an increasing number of invasive Candida infections in the United States. What makes C. auris particularly worrisome? Its resistance to multiple antifungal drugs and its ability to spread rapidly in healthcare settings pose significant challenges for infection control and treatment.

Antifungal Resistance: A Growing Challenge in Candida Infections

The rise of antifungal resistance among Candida species presents a significant obstacle in the fight against candidiasis. Approximately 7% of all Candida bloodstream isolates tested at CDC are resistant to fluconazole, a first-line antifungal medication. More than 70% of these resistant isolates belong to the species C. glabrata or C. krusei.

While fluconazole resistance has remained relatively stable over the past two decades, a more concerning trend is emerging: resistance to echinocandins. These drugs, including anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin, are considered the first-line treatment for many Candida infections, particularly those caused by C. glabrata. However, approximately 3% of C. glabrata isolates now show resistance to echinocandins, with even higher percentages observed in some hospitals.

Implications of Antifungal Resistance

What does the increasing antifungal resistance mean for patients and healthcare providers? It presents several challenges:

1. Limited treatment options for resistant infections
2. Potentially longer hospital stays and increased healthcare costs
3. Higher risk of treatment failure and complications
4. Need for more frequent use of broader-spectrum antifungal drugs

These factors underscore the importance of ongoing surveillance, research into new antifungal agents, and implementation of effective antifungal stewardship programs to preserve the efficacy of existing treatments.

Common Types of Candidiasis: From Thrush to Invasive Infections

Candidiasis can manifest in various forms, affecting different parts of the body. Understanding these different types is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Let’s explore some of the most common forms of candidiasis:

Oropharyngeal Candidiasis (Thrush)

Thrush occurs when Candida yeast overgrows in the mouth and throat. It’s particularly common in newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. What are the telltale signs of thrush? Look for:

• White or yellow patches on the tongue, lips, gums, and inner cheeks
• Redness or soreness in the mouth and throat
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth
• Pain when swallowing (if the infection spreads to the throat)

Treatment typically involves antifungal medications such as nystatin, clotrimazole, or fluconazole. For individuals with weakened immune systems, rinsing the mouth with chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash may help prevent recurrent infections.

Genital Yeast Infections

Genital candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, affects a significant portion of the population. Did you know that three out of four adult women will experience at least one yeast infection in their lifetime? These infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina.

While less common, men can also develop genital yeast infections. Symptoms may include:

• Itching and burning in the genital area
• Redness and swelling of the vulva (in women)
• Thick, white, odorless discharge (in women)
• Rash on the penis (in men)

Treatment typically involves over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications, available in creams, suppositories, or oral tablets.

Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies for Candidiasis

While Candida is a normal part of the body’s microbiome, certain factors can increase the risk of developing an overgrowth or infection. Understanding these risk factors is key to implementing effective prevention strategies. What conditions or behaviors might predispose an individual to candidiasis?

Common Risk Factors

Several factors can increase susceptibility to Candida infections:

• Weakened immune system (due to HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or other conditions)
• Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, use of hormonal contraceptives)
• Prolonged use of corticosteroids
• Frequent douching (for vaginal yeast infections)
• Poor oral hygiene (for oral thrush)

Recognizing these risk factors can help individuals and healthcare providers take proactive steps to prevent Candida overgrowth.

Prevention Strategies

How can you reduce your risk of developing a Candida infection? Consider implementing these prevention strategies:

1. Maintain good hygiene practices, including proper handwashing
2. Wear breathable, cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing
3. Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use
4. Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
5. Limit sugar and refined carbohydrate intake
6. Use probiotics to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria
7. Practice safe sex to prevent the spread of genital yeast infections

By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing candidiasis.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Candidiasis

Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for effectively managing candidiasis. How do healthcare providers diagnose Candida infections, and what treatment options are available?

Diagnostic Approaches

Diagnosing candidiasis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Physical examination and assessment of symptoms
• Microscopic examination of affected tissue or discharge
• Culture tests to identify the specific Candida species
• Blood tests to detect Candida antibodies or antigens (for systemic infections)

In some cases, additional imaging studies may be necessary to assess the extent of infection, particularly for invasive candidiasis.

Treatment Options

The choice of treatment for candidiasis depends on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient’s overall health status. What are the primary treatment approaches for different types of Candida infections?

1. Topical antifungal medications: Creams, ointments, or suppositories for superficial infections
2. Oral antifungal drugs: Such as fluconazole or itraconazole for more persistent or systemic infections
3. Intravenous antifungal therapy: For severe or invasive candidiasis, often using echinocandins or amphotericin B
4. Combination therapy: In some cases, a combination of antifungal medications may be necessary

It’s important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and the development of drug-resistant strains.

The Future of Candidiasis Research and Treatment

As our understanding of Candida infections continues to evolve, what does the future hold for candidiasis research and treatment? Several promising areas of investigation are currently underway:

Novel Antifungal Agents

With the rise of antifungal resistance, there’s an urgent need for new treatment options. Researchers are exploring novel antifungal compounds that target Candida through different mechanisms of action. These include:

• Peptide-based antifungals
• Natural product derivatives
• Repurposed drugs with antifungal properties

The development of these new agents could provide much-needed alternatives for treating resistant Candida infections.

Immunotherapy Approaches

Another promising area of research focuses on harnessing the power of the immune system to combat Candida infections. Immunotherapy approaches under investigation include:

1. Vaccines to prevent or treat recurrent candidiasis
2. Monoclonal antibodies targeting Candida virulence factors
3. Immune-enhancing therapies to boost the body’s natural defenses against fungal infections

These innovative approaches could potentially revolutionize the way we prevent and treat candidiasis, particularly in high-risk populations.

Personalized Medicine in Candidiasis Management

As our understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of Candida infections grows, there’s increasing interest in personalized approaches to candidiasis management. How might personalized medicine impact the future of candidiasis treatment?

• Genetic testing to identify individuals at higher risk for recurrent or invasive infections
• Tailored antifungal regimens based on the patient’s specific Candida strain and resistance profile
• Individualized prevention strategies targeting each patient’s unique risk factors

By taking a more personalized approach, healthcare providers may be able to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of complications associated with candidiasis.

In conclusion, while candidiasis remains a significant health concern, ongoing research and advancements in treatment strategies offer hope for improved management of these infections in the future. By staying informed about the latest developments and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and effectively treat Candida infections.

Statistics | Invasive Candidiasis | Candidiasis | Types of Diseases | Fungal Diseases

Candidemia trends in the United States

Although there are notable differences by site, overall candidemia incidence has declined. Candidemia incidence declined during 2008–2013 and then stabilized at approximately 9 cases per 100,000 population during 2013–2017.^3,4 It is possible that the observed declines in candidemia during 2008–2013 are related to healthcare delivery improvements such as those involving catheter care and maintenance.³ Increases in incidence for certain surveillance areas may be due to increases in the number of candidemia cases related to injection drug use, which has recently been re-emerging as a risk factor for candidemia.^5-7

Demographic trends

Candidemia rates by age group have recently changed. Rates decreased significantly among infants and the elderly between 2009 and 2012, but have remained more stable since 2012.^8,9 The reasons for the decline in candidemia rates in some age groups are not fully understood but might be related to factors such as changes in prophylaxis guidelines and improved infection control practices, such as hand hygiene and catheter care. Among all ages, candidemia rates are approximately twice as high in Black people as in non-Black people. The differences by race might be due to differences in underlying conditions, socioeconomic status, healthcare access and availability, or other factors.

Learn more about candidemia incidence rates by age group and race.

Trends in species distribution

Up to 95% of all invasive Candida infections in the United States are caused by five species of Candida: C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei. The proportion of infections caused by each species varies by geographic region and by patient population.¹⁰ Although C. albicans is still the leading cause of candidemia in the United States, increasing proportions of cases in recent years have been attributed to non-albicans species that are often resistant to antifungal drugs.^11-13 Altogether, non-C. albicans species cause approximately two-thirds of candidemia cases in the United States.^3,11 In some locations, C. glabrata is the most common species. Since 2015, an emerging species called Candida auris (C. auris) has been an increasing cause of invasive Candida infections in the United States.¹⁴

Learn more about Candida species distribution.

Trends in antifungal resistance

Some types of Candida are increasingly resistant to the first-line and second-line antifungal medications, such as fluconazole and the echinocandins (anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin). About 7% of all Candida bloodstream isolates tested at CDC are resistant to fluconazole. More than 70% of these resistant isolates are the species C. glabrata or C. krusei.^11,15 CDC’s surveillance data indicate that the proportion of Candida isolates resistant to fluconazole has remained fairly constant over the past 20 years.^11,16,17 Echinocandin resistance, however, appears to be emerging, especially among C. glabrata isolates. Approximately 3% of C. glabrata isolates are resistant to echinocandins, but the percentage may be higher in some hospitals. This is especially concerning because echinocandins are the first-line treatment for C. glabrata, which already has high levels of resistance to fluconazole.¹⁵

Learn more about trends in antifungal resistance in Candida spp. isolates.

Yeast Infections, Thrush, Diaper Rash

There are many kinds of fungus that live in the human body. One type is called candida. It’s a type of yeast that normally lives in small amounts in places like your mouth and belly, or on your skin without causing any problems. But when the environment is right, the yeast can multiply and grow out of control.

The infection it causes is called candidiasis. There are several different types of it. Most can be easily treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Thrush (Oropharyngeal Candidiasis)

When the candida yeast spreads in the mouth and throat, it can cause an infection called thrush. It’s most common in newborns, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Also more likely to get it are adults who:

The symptoms include:

• White or yellow patches on the tongue, lips, gums, roof of mouth, and inner cheeks
• Redness or soreness in the mouth and throat
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth
• Pain when swallowing, if it spreads to the throat

Thrush is treated with antifungal medicines like nystatin, clotrimazole, and fluconazole. Rinsing the mouth with chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash may help prevent infections in people with weakened immune systems.

Genital Yeast Infection (Genital Candidiasis)

Three out of four adult women will get at least one yeast infection during their lifetime. This happens when too much yeast grows in the vagina. (Men also can get a genital yeast infection, but it’s much less common).

A yeast infection typically happens when the balance in the vagina changes. This can be caused by:

• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Some medicines, including antibiotics and birth control pills
• Use of some douches, vaginal sprays, lubricants, or spermicides
• A weakened immune system
• Wearing a wet bathing suit or workout clothes, or underwear that doesn’t breathe

Occasionally, the infection can be passed from person to person during sex.

The symptoms include:

• Extreme itchiness in the vagina
• Redness and swelling of the vagina and vulva (the outer part of the female genitals)
• Pain and burning when you pee
• Discomfort during sex
• A thick, white “cottage cheese” discharge from the vagina

A man with a yeast infection may have an itchy rash on their penis.

Because the symptoms in women can be similar to other infections like bacterial vaginosis (bacterial overgrowth in the vagina) and sexually transmitted diseases, it’s important to visit your doctor.

Most times, an over-the-counter antifungal suppository, tablet, or cream will knock out the infection. Your doctor might also prescribe a single dose of a prescription antifungal medicine like fluconazole. Tell your doctor if you get yeast infections more than four times a year. They may recommend regular doses of antifungal medication over several months to fight the repeated infections.

Diaper Rash From Yeast Infection

Though diaper rashes are usually caused by leaving a wet or soiled diaper on too long, once your baby’s skin is irritated, infection is more likely. If their diaper rash isn’t going away, check to see if their bottom is red and sensitive, and if there’s a raised red border around the sores. If so, have your pediatrician check for candidiasis. It can be treated with an antifungal cream.

Keeping your baby’s bottom clean and dry is a good start to help prevent diaper rash and candidiasis.

Invasive Candidiasis

If candida yeast enters the bloodstream (usually through medical equipment or devices), it can travel to the heart, brain, blood, eyes, and bones. This can cause a serious, life-threatening infection.

This happens most often to people who have recently been admitted to a hospital or live in a health care facility, such as a nursing home. Like other types of yeast infections, if you have diabetes, a weakened immune system, kidney failure, or are on antibiotics, your chances of getting it are greater.

The symptoms include fever and chills. Since it’s likely a person with this infection is already sick with another condition, it can be hard to diagnose.

Invasive candidiasis is treated with an oral or intravenous dose of antifungal medication. If you are having surgery and have higher odds of a yeast infection, your doctor might prescribe a series of antifungal medicines before the procedure.

Familial candidiasis: MedlinePlus Genetics

Familial candidiasis is an inherited tendency to develop infections caused by a type of fungus called Candida. Affected individuals typically have infections of the skin, the nails, and the moist lining of body cavities (mucous membranes). These infections are recurrent and persistent, which means they come back repeatedly and can last a long time. This pattern of infection is called chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis.

Candida is commonly present on the skin and on the mucous membranes, and in most people usually causes no health problems. However, certain medications (such as antibiotics and corticosteroids) and other factors can lead to occasional overgrowth of Candida (candidiasis) in the mouth (where it is known as thrush) or in the vagina. These episodes, commonly called yeast infections, usually last only a short time before being cleared by a healthy immune system.

Most people with familial candidiasis have chronic or recurrent yeast infections that begin in early childhood. Skin infections lead to a rash with crusty, thickened patches; when these patches occur on the scalp, they can cause loss of hair in the affected area (scarring alopecia). Candidiasis of the nails can result in thick, cracked, and discolored nails and swelling and redness of the surrounding skin. Thrush and gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea are common in affected individuals. Women with familial candidiasis can develop frequent vaginal yeast infections, and infants can have yeast infections on the skin that cause persistent diaper rash.

Depending on the genetic change involved in this condition, some affected individuals are at risk for developing systemic candidiasis, a more severe condition in which the infection spreads through the bloodstream to various organs including the brain and the meninges, which are the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Systemic candidiasis can be life-threatening.

Chronic or recurrent yeast infections can occur in people without familial candidiasis. Some individuals experience recurrent candidiasis as part of a general susceptibility to infections because their immune systems are impaired by a disease such as acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), medications, or other factors. Other individuals have syndromes such as autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) or autosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome (AD-HIES) that include a tendency to develop candidiasis along with other signs and symptoms affecting various organs and systems of the body.

Candida | DermNet NZ

Author: Hon A/Prof Amanda Oakley, Dermatologist, Hamilton, New Zealand, 2003.

What is candida?

Candida is the name for a group of yeasts (yeast is a type of fungus) that commonly infect the skin. The name ‘candida’ refers to the white colour of the organisms in culture. Candidal infection is known as ‘candidiasis’, ‘candidosis’ or ‘moniliasis’ (monilia is also a genus of ascomycete fungi).

Who gets candida?

Candida depends on a living host for survival. It is a normal inhabitant of the human digestive tract from early infancy, where it lives without causing any disease most of the time. However, if the host’s defences are lowered, the organism can cause infection of the mucosa (the lining of the mouth, anus and genitals), the skin, and rarely, deep-seated infection.

How is candida classified?

The most common Candida (C) species to result in candidiasis is C. albicans. Other non-albicans candida species are:

• C. tropicalis
• C. parapsilosis
• C. glabrata
• C. guilliermondii

Candidal skin infections include:

Candida skin problems

See more images of candida infection.

Predisposing factors for candida infection

Cutaneous candidiasis is more likely in the following circumstances:

Invasive candidiasis

invasive candidiasis refers to spread of candida through the bloodstream (candidaemia) and infection of heart, brain, eyes, bones, and other tissues. This occurs in patients that are very unwell or that are immune suppressed. The common species of candida are usually found on culture, but sometimes one of about 15 other species are detected, such as:

See Non-albicans candida infections.

How is candida diagnosed?

Microscopy and culture of skin swabs and scrapings aid in the diagnosis of candidal infections. However, candida can live on a mucosal surface quite harmlessly. It may also secondarily infect an underlying skin disorder such as psoriasis. The results of laboratory tests must be correlated with the clinical presentation.

Treatment of Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

1. Geiger AM,
Foxman B,
Gillespie BW.
The epidemiology of vulvovaginal candidiasis among university students. Am J Public Health.
1995;85:1146–8….

2. Sobel JD.
Candidal vulvovaginitis. Clin Obstet Gynecol.
1993;36:153–65.

3. Jovanovic R,
Congema E,
Nguyen HT.
Antifungal agents vs. boric acid for treating chronic mycotic vulvovaginitis. J Reprod Med.
1991;36:593–7.

4. Spinillo A,
Capuzzo E,
Gulminetti R,
Marone P,
Colonna L,
Piazza G.
Prevalence of and risk factors for fungal vaginitis caused by non-albicans species. Am J Obstet Gynecol.
1997;176:138–41.

5. Horowitz BJ.
Mycotic vulvovaginitis: a broad overview. Am J Obstet Gynecol.
1991;165:1188–92.

6. Fong IW,
Bannatyne RM,
Wong P.
Lack of in vitro resistance of Candida albicans to ketoconazole, itraconazole and clotrimazole in women treated for recurrent vaginal candidiasis. Genitourin Med.
1993;69:44–6.

7. O’Connor MI,
Sobel JD.
Epidemiology of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: identification and strain differentiation of Candida albicans. J Infect Dis.
1986;154:358–63.

8. Reed B.
Risk factors for Candida vulvovaginitis. Obstet Gynecol Surv.
1992;47:551–60.

9. Spinillo A,
Capuzzo E,
Acciano S,
De Santolo A,
Zara F.
Effect of antibiotic use on the prevalence of symptomatic vulvovaginal candidiasis. Am J Obstet Gynecol.
1999;180:14–7.

10. Bohannon NJ.
Treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis in patients with diabetes. Diabetes Care.
1998;21:451–6.

11. Sobel JD,
Faro S,
Force RW,
Foxman B,
Ledger WJ,
Nyirjesy PR,

et al.
Vulvovaginal candidiasis: epidemiologic, diagnostic, and therapeutic considerations. Am J Obstet Gynecol.
1998;178:203–11.

12. Sobel JD.
Pathogenesis and treatment of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Clin Infect Dis.
1992;14(suppl 1):S148–53.

13. Hilton E,
Chandrasekaran V,
Rindos P,
Isenberg HD.
Association of recurrent candidal vaginitis with inheritance of Lewis blood group antigens. J Infect Dis.
1995;172:1616–9.

14. Spinillo A,
Pizzoli G,
Colonna L,
Nicola S,
De Seta F,
Guaschino S.
Epidemiologic characteristics of women with idiopathic recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Obstet Gynecol.
1993;81:721–7.

15. Fong IW.
The value of treating the sexual partners of women with recurrent vaginal candidiasis with ketoconazole. Genitourin Med.
1992;68:174–6.

16. Horowitz BJ,
Giaquinta D,
Ito S.
Evolving pathogens in vulvovaginal candidiasis: implications for patient care. J Clin Pharmacol.
1992;32:248–55.

17. Fong IW.
The value of prophylactic (monthly) clotrimazole versus empiric self-treatment in recurrent vaginal candidiasis. Genitourin Med.
1994;70:124–6.

18. Sobel JD,
Schmitt C,
Stein G,
Mummaw N,
Christensen S,
Meriwether C.
Initial management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis with oral ketoconazole and topical clotrimazole. J Reprod Med.
1994;39:517–20.

19. Sobel JD.
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. A prospective study of the efficacy of maintenance ketoconazole therapy. N Engl J Med.
1986;315:1455–8.

20. Stein GE,
Mummaw NL,
Schooley SL.
Prevention of recurrent vaginal candidiasis with weekly terconazole cream. Ann Pharmacother.
1996;30:1080–3.

21. Fong IW.
The value of chronic suppressive therapy with itraconazole versus clotrimazole in women with recurrent vaginal candidiasis. Genitourin Med.
1992;68:374–7.

22. Sobel JD.
Fluconazole maintenance therapy in recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Int J Gynecol Obstet.
1992;37(suppl 1):17–24.

23. Creatsas GC,
Charalambidis VM,
Zagotzidou EH,
Anthopoulou HN,
Michailidis DC,
Aravantinos DI.
Chronic or recurrent vaginal candidiasis: short-term treatment and prophylaxis with itraconazole. Clin Ther.
1993;15:662–71.

24. Spinillo A,
Colonna L,
Piazzi G,
Baltaro F,
Monaco A,
Ferrari A.
Managing recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Intermittent prevention with itraconazole. J Reprod Med.
1997;42:83–7.

25. Thai L,
Hart LL.
Boric acid vaginal suppositories. Ann Pharmacother.
1993;27:1355–7.

26. Hilton E,
Isenberg HD,
Alperstein P,
France K,
Borenstein MT.
Ingestion of yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus as prophylaxis for candidal vaginitis. Ann Intern Med.
1992;116:353–7.

27. Shalev E,
Battino S,
Weiner E,
Colodner R,
Keness Y.
Ingestion of yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus compared with pasteurized yogurt as prophylaxis for recurrent candidal vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis. Arch Fam Med.
1996;5:593–6.

28. Fong IW.
Clinical and cost considerations in the pharmacotherapy of vulvovaginal candidiasis. Pharmacoeconomics.
1996;9:497–505.

29. Ketoconazole [Package insert]. Titusville, N.J.: Janssen Pharmaceutica Inc., 1997.

30. Sobel JD,
Booker D,
Stein GE,
Thomason JL,
Wermeling DP,
Bradley B,

et al.
Single oral dose fluconazole compared with conventional clotrimazole topical therapy of Candida vaginitis. Fluconazole Vaginitis Study Group. Am J Obstet Gynecol.
1995;172:1263–8.

31. Desai PC,
Johnson BA.
Oral fluconazole for vaginal candidiasis. Am Fam Physician.
1996;54:1337–40.

Candidiasis: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology

Candidiasis – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnosis

The Facts

Candidiasis, also called thrush or moniliasis, is a yeast infection. Candida albicans is an organism that normally makes a quiet home for itself on your skin and doesn’t bother anyone. We all carry this organism on our skin, in our mouth, in our gastrointestinal tract (gut), and, in the case of women, in the vagina.

Occasionally the yeast multiplies uncontrollably, causing pain and inflammation. Candidiasis may affect the skin. This includes the external surface skin and the skin of the vagina, the penis, and the mouth. Candidiasis may also infect the blood stream or internal organs such as the liver or spleen. By far the most common problems are skin, mouth and vaginal infections. It also is a common cause of diaper rash. These can be bothersome infections, but are not life threatening.

Candidiasis can kill if it reaches the bloodstream or vital organs such as the heart, but this is rare even in people with damaged immune systems and is almost unheard of in healthy people. Nevertheless, candidiasis is a constant nuisance, and sometimes a serious threat to people with AIDS and some cancer patients who lack the immune resources to fight it.

Causes

You don’t catch candidiasis. The yeast is already there. A number of factors can increase the chance of the yeast growing out of control, a common one being the overuse of antibiotics. Yeast must compete for the right to live on us with various other organisms, many of them bacteria. These bacteria, which live on the skin and in the intestine and vagina, among other places, are harmless but good at fighting off yeast. When we take antibiotics to deal with less friendly bacteria, we kill off these harmless ones as well. Yeast, which is unaffected by antibiotics, moves into the vacated spots once occupied by bacteria, and starts to grow and multiply.

Steroids and some cancer medications weaken the immune system and can allow yeast to flourish. Candida albicans infections of the mouth (known as oral thrush) most often develop in people with diseases such as cancer and AIDS. They can also develop in people with diabetes or in people who have long-term irritation resulting from dentures. Taking birth control pills increases your chances of getting vaginal candidiasis. Hot weather, poor hygiene, and tight clothing are also risk factors, as they create the ideal environment for candida.

Other conditions that tend to encourage yeast include obesity and pregnancy. Yeast generally infects intertriginous areas, that is, areas where skin contacts skin. Overweight people have more folds in their skin. They also sweat more, and Candida albicans is fond of moist skin. Pregnancy causes an increase in the level of estrogen, increasing the risk of yeast infections.

Candidiasis is not considered a sexually transmitted infection as it is unlikely for an infected woman to give it to her sexual partner. However, if the infection keeps coming back, sometimes the partner may be treated as well.

Symptoms and Complications

A candida infection of the skin appears as a clearly defined patch of red, itchy skin, often leaking fluid. Scabs and pustules may be seen around the edge of the rash. It will usually be found in areas such as the groin, the folds of the buttocks, between the breasts, toes, or fingers, and in the navel. It may be hard to see on people with darker skin.

A vaginal yeast infection may well result in a slow leakage of a thick, white, clumpy (cottage-cheese-like) substance with minimal or no odour. The vagina may itch or burn, especially during urination or sex. Pain or discomfort during intercourse is common.

Candidal paronychia is candidiasis of the fingernails. It often strikes people whose hands are in water a lot. Sometimes it presents as a painful, red, swollen area around the fingernail. In worse cases, the fingernail may separate, revealing a discoloured white or yellow nail bed.

Oral thrush causes curd-like white patches inside the mouth, on the tongue and palate and around the lips. It may also cause cracked, red, moist areas of skin at the corners of the mouth. Thrush patches may or may not be painful.

Yeast infections of the penis are rare but may cause the tip to be red, swollen, and painful.

Making the Diagnosis

To make a diagnosis your doctor will examine the affect area, ask about your symptoms and recent use of antibiotics or medications that can weaken the immune system. The doctor will also take into consideration any history of diabetes, cancer, HIV, or other chronic diseases.

Candidiasis is easy to identify. The yeast can be seen under the microscope after being scraped off the affected area. However, since yeast is normally there anyway, your doctor will want to be sure that it’s candida causing the problem and not something else. The appearance of the rash may be enough.

Treatment and Prevention

Candidiasis isn’t normally a dangerous disease except in rare cases when it enters the blood and spreads to vital organs of people with weakened immune systems.

For infection of the skin, your doctor can give you an antifungal cream or prescribe you an antifungal pill. For vaginal yeast infections, treatment consists of antifungal medications that are administered directly into the vagina as tablets, creams, ointments, or suppositories, or administered by mouth (e.g., fluconazole*). Speak with your pharmacist – you can buy many of the products intended for minor infections without a prescription. For oral thrush, a suspension of antifungal medication can be swished in the mouth and swallowed.

For severe cases, antifungal medication taken by mouth for several days may be needed.

Here are some hygiene tips to help prevent vaginal candidiasis:

• wipe from front to back after going to the toilet – the rectal area is full of yeast
• dry yourself thoroughly after bathing, especially the pubic hair – use a hair dryer on low setting if you have to
• don’t use soap around the vagina – soap kills the bacteria you want to keep, and has no effect on yeast
• sterilize or throw away underwear that you wore during your last infection – the washing machine isn’t hot enough, you must boil them if you want to keep them. You must also replace any diaphragms or cervical caps.
• avoid chemicals like scented tampons and especially vaginal douches, which serve no purpose and may cause infection

These sensible precautions may also help prevent candidiasis:

• wear loose cotton underwear
• avoid pantyhose and tight pants
• your health care provider may recommend you eat live yogurt, especially if you have been prescribed antibiotics or have other factors which increase your risk for yeast infections – pasteurized yogurt isn’t effective. Some stores carry lactobacillus acidophilus pills which may help to keep yeast in check
• cut down on sugar and alcohol (yeast’s favourite foods)
• consider changing “the pill” – if you’ve had recurring infections, talk to your doctor about changing your birth control pill and see if it helps
• don’t ask for antibiotics if you’ve got a cold or the flu – the flu is caused by viruses, so taking antibiotics won’t help and they might provoke candidiasis

*All medications have both common (generic) and brand names. The brand name is what a specific manufacturer calls the product (e.g., Tylenol®). The common name is the medical name for the medication (e.g., acetaminophen). A medication may have many brand names, but only one common name. This article lists medications by their common names. For information on a given medication, check our Drug Information database. For more information on brand names, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2021. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Candidiasis

90,000 Yeast Throat Infection: What You Need to Know

Yeast can be found everywhere. In most cases, this tiny mushroom does more good than harm (without yeast, there would be no bread or beer). However, some strains of these can cause disease, such as a yeast infection in the throat, also known as oropharyngeal candidiasis or thrush. Some people are more likely to develop this infection in the mouth or throat than others. Knowing the causes and symptoms will allow you to make the correct diagnosis and choose the right treatment.

Common symptoms of oral yeast infection

According to
specialists, in some cases candidiasis or a yeast infection of the mouth or throat passes without symptoms, making it difficult to detect the infection. In other patients, it causes a burning or itching sensation in the throat or mouth. If the fungus is localized in the throat, the person may have difficulty swallowing or feel like a stuck “coma”.

In some patients, oral candidiasis is easily identified due to visible symptoms.For example, the development of a yeast infection is usually indicated by a white coating and lesions on the tongue or palate, although they can also be caused by other conditions. In addition, cracks and redness in the corners of the mouth, as well as the formation of a smooth red area in the center of the tongue, indicate the presence of candidal stomatitis.

Who is at risk?

Oral yeast infections are on the rise, according to the National Medical Association of Otorhinolaryngology.Especially often, candidal stomatitis develops in people with a weakened immune system, newborns and the elderly.

So, in AIDS patients, the prevalence of candidiasis ranges from 21.9% to 74%, according to researchers from the Medical University. Gorky.

Diagnosis and treatment of infection

If you or someone you know has symptoms of a yeast infection in your throat or mouth, it is best to see your doctor.The dentist will examine your mouth, take a throat swab, and make a diagnosis.

It is important to know that yeast does not necessarily indicate an infection: experts say that 70% of the healthy population has fungi of the genus Candida in the oral cavity. That is why, in addition to the smear results, the doctor will be guided by the presence of symptoms of infection.

In case of confirmation of the disease, you will be prescribed a fairly simple treatment. Antifungal medications are commonly used in the form of tablets, syrup, or capsules.

Preventive measures

Prevention measures will help prevent infection with a yeast infection in the oral cavity. Above all, proper oral hygiene must be observed. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. People who are at risk of contracting candidiasis should visit their dentist regularly to monitor their oral health.

In between visits, it is recommended to review information about the symptoms of a yeast infection in the throat or oral cavity, and what actions to take if it is found.

90,000 Candidiasis: treatment, symptoms, causes

Trichologist, dermatologist, doctor of the highest category

Moskovsky prospect, 143

Dermatologist oncologist, doctor of the highest category

Grazhdansky prospect, 107, building 4

Dermatologist oncologist, doctor of the highest category

Grazhdansky prospect, 107, office 4

Kolomyazhsky prospect, 20

Dermatologist, specialist in laser technologies in oncodermatology, doctor of the highest category

Kolomyazhsky prospect, d.20

Dermatologist, specialist in laser technologies in oncodermatology, doctor of the highest category

Moskovsky prospect, 143

Dermatologist, specialist in laser technologies in oncodermatology

Moskovsky prospect, 143

Grazhdansky prospect, 107, office 4

Kolomyazhsky prospect, 20

Dermatovenereologist, trichologist, cosmetologist, laser technology specialist

Moskovsky prospect, d.143

Grazhdansky prospect, 107, office 4

Kolomyazhsky prospect, 20

Dermatovenereologist, trichologist, cosmetologist. Highest qualification category.

Moskovsky prospect, 143

Dermatologist, cosmetologist, Laser technology specialist in oncodermatology

Kolomyazhsky prospect, 20

Dermatovenereologist, specialist in laser technologies in oncodermatology

Moskovsky prospect, d.143

Kolomyazhsky prospect, 20

dermatologist, cosmetologist, laser technology specialist

Grazhdansky prospect, 107, building 4

Dermatovenereologist, Doctor of Medicine, Professor

Moskovsky prospect, 143

Dermatovenereologist, specialist in laser technologies in oncodermatology

Grazhdansky prospect, 107, building 4

Oncologist-dermatologist, candidate of medical sciences

Moskovsky prospect, d.143

Grazhdansky prospect, 107, office 4

Kolomyazhsky prospect, 20

Causes, symptoms and treatment of thrush in a woman. List of antifungal drugs

Symptoms and treatment of thrush

Thrush in women, or vaginal candidiasis, is an inflammatory process that occurs in the vaginal mucosa. The frequency of diagnosing this disease is so high that doctors are “sounding the alarm” – thrush must be able to not only recognize, but also correctly treat.

Causes and symptoms of thrush in women

Causes of thrush in women are the growth of colonies of yeast of the genus Candida. But this very growth can begin against the background of a combination of some provoking factors:

• wrong, unbalanced power supply
• Regular violations of intimate hygiene
• taking antibacterial drugs (antibiotics) for a long time
• malfunctions of the hormonal system
• decreased immunity due to stress, overwork or long-term chronic pathological processes.

Signs of thrush are pronounced, so a woman is unlikely to be able to ignore the beginning of the development of the pathological process. Intensive reproduction of pathogenic fungi causes the following symptoms:

• itching and burning in the vagina and genital area
• The amount of vaginal discharge increases significantly
• discharge becomes pronounced white, may have a specific sour odor
• discharge is characterized by heterogeneity – they may contain lumps resembling cottage cheese (genital candidiasis is why it is called thrush)
• swelling and redness of the entire external genital area predominates.

Since itching, swelling and burning are present, pain during intercourse and discomfort during urination can be added to the symptoms of thrush. Symptoms of thrush in a woman are variable – for example, some women have only itching and burning in the area of ​​the external genital organs and the entrance to the vagina, and there are patients who complain only of copious, cheesy discharge.

Many consider the disease in question to be something insignificant and harmless.But in fact, vaginal candidiasis can acquire a chronic form, and then its relapses will be very frequent – 4 or more times a year, regardless of the treatment. Such recurrent thrush is very difficult to treat, often leads to complications when the intestines, bladder and other internal organs are involved in the pathological (inflammatory) process.

The disease in question often accompanies other infectious processes – for example, chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis.Therefore, upon receipt of complaints characteristic of thrush from the patient, the doctor will send her for a full examination.

Diagnosis of thrush

Before prescribing the treatment of thrush, the gynecologist will definitely conduct a full examination of the woman and clarify the diagnosis. When examining a woman on a gynecological chair, a specialist will note redness and swelling of the labia majora and labia majora, white, thick or lumpy discharge can be visually recorded in the folds of the external genital organs and directly near the entrance to the vagina.

On a mandatory basis, the doctor takes a smear from the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix, with a microscopic examination of which fungal colonies are found in large numbers. But this method of laboratory research of biomaterial is not informative, because the doctor will not be able to determine the exact type of fungi. For an in-depth examination, a bacterial smear is done, which is needed for the selection of effective antifungal drugs – this is the only way to treat candidiasis in women quickly and completely.

Rapid tests for genital infections are mandatory, because if the results are positive, the woman will be prescribed complex treatment. If a chronic form of the disease in question is diagnosed, then the patient will have to undergo an examination for the development of diabetes mellitus (blood is donated for glucose) and intestinal dysbiosis.

How to get rid of thrush

Modern medicine offers many medicines that literally get rid of thrush in a few days.For treatment, antifungal drugs are used, which can be presented in the form of vaginal tablets / ointments / suppositories – for example, Pimafucin, Ifenek, Mycozoral, Zalain and others. But such drugs will be effective only for thrush, which is mild and unaccompanied by other genital infections. Most often, doctors prescribe suppositories for thrush – convenient, effective and practical.

If the disease in question is severe or aggravated by other genital infections, then systemic antifungal drugs cannot be administered without.They are used in the form of tablets or injection solutions. For more information on how to get rid of thrush with different forms of the course of the disease, you can find out on our website Dobrobut.com.

Candidiasis in pregnant women deserves special attention, since it is impossible to use conventional antifungal drugs for treatment in this position. Thrush during pregnancy is treated only with local drugs (suppositories, vaginal tablets and creams), the doctor will definitely prescribe a special diet to the patient and will regularly monitor her health for early detection of health problems.

Vaginal candidiasis (thrush) is a fungal disease that requires qualified medical care. There are a lot of folk remedies, there are even recipes for lotions and applications, douching and baths for the treatment of the disease in question, but they will not have the desired effect – only taking antifungal drugs prescribed by a doctor guarantees recovery.

Related services:

Gynecological Check-up
Colposcopy

What is oral candidiasis?

Candidiasis of the oral mucosa is an infectious disease caused by yeast of the genus Candida.These fungi are normal inhabitants of the human body surface and mouth. Usually they do not cause any harm, however, with a decrease in immunity, candidiasis develops.

CAUSES OF ORAL CANDIDOSIS

The reasons why candida begins to multiply actively, leading to candidiasis, are different: taking antibiotics, especially long-term, the use of inhalers for asthma, wearing dentures, especially when they are loose, non-observance of oral hygiene, dry mouth, smoking, chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer.

Candidiasis of the oral mucosa usually occurs with diseases of the immune system and in old age.

SYMPTOMS OF ORAL CAVITY CANDIDOSIS

A symptom of candidiasis is a white cheesy plaque on the mucous membrane of the mouth. It usually forms on the tongue and lining of the cheeks, but it can also affect the gums, palate, tonsils, and the back of the throat. When plaque is removed, reddened areas are visible, which may bleed a little.

Symptoms of oral candidiasis also include loss of taste, bad taste in the mouth, redness in the mouth and throat, burning, pain, and cracks in the corners of the lips. In severe cases, it becomes difficult for a person to swallow.

If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor. He will prescribe the necessary treatment.

PREVENTION OF ORAL CAVITY CANDIDOSIS

Oral cavity candidiasis is an unpleasant disease.Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it from happening:

• Practice good oral hygiene. This should include brushing your teeth with a fluoride paste 2 times a day and regularly using dental floss or interdental brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas between your teeth.
• See your dentist regularly. The doctor will be able to identify problems before they get worse. Regular dental check-ups are especially important if you wear dentures or are missing your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth after eating and using an asthma inhaler.
• Try to quit smoking. Talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit smoking.
• Keep chronic illnesses under control. If you have a chronic medical condition, following your doctor’s recommendations will help prevent oral candidiasis.

Generation of Fluorescent Protein Fusions in Candida Species

The construction of epitope tagged sequences in Candida species using the PCR-mediated gene modification strategy described above can be characterized as a three-step process.First, the cassette is made using PCR, which encodes both the sequences required for integration and regions homologous to the insertion locus in the yeast genome. Second, the yeast cells to be transformed are made chemically competent with lithium acetate and are co-incubated with the cassette. Third, cells are plated on selective medium to restore transformants and the resulting colonies are tested for correct integration of the cassette at the desired genomic locus.

There are several important steps under this protocol to improve the success rate of fluorescent fusion protein at C.Albicans and C. parapsilosis. First, the use of primers that are purified by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE, manufacturer) is highly recommended. Without purification, there is an increased likelihood of obtaining primers of the wrong length in the final product, which can lead to a decrease in the efficiency with which the cassette is inserted into the putative genomic locus by homologous recombination. Second, we recommend checking that the PCR-generated labeling cassette is of high quality by analyzing ~ 5 μl of the cassette DNA using agarose gel electrophoresis to ensure the correct size of the PCR product.Third, to obtain yeast cells that are optimized for transformation, the cells must be in a logarithmic growth phase, with yeast buds evident by microscopy prior to use. Fourth, it is imperative to use a gentle pipetting technique during refixation of transformed yeast cells after heat shock and before plating on selective media. Fifth, to select transformants for nourseothricin, which is toxic to yeast cells, allowing more time for growth on YPAD agar before replication on nourseothricin containing medium may be beneficial to promote transformation of the transformants.The latter, intact plasmid and integration of cassette PCR outside the intended genomic location does indeed take place at low frequencies in Candida and will also lead to colony growth. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze all transformed colonies by PCR using primers outside the sequence used for integration. For transformants that are verified by PCR but do not show fluorescence by microscopy, Western blot analysis of cell lysates and sequencing should be considered to further investigate the reasons for construction or imaging failure.In addition to these critical steps, there are several steps in the protocol that can be modified as needed to improve transformation efficiency and increase the frequency of correct cassette integration. Troubleshooting guidance is provided in Table 2 .

There are potential drawbacks to this method that could be optimized for future applications. lithiu The m acetate method used for DNA transformation results leads to lower efficiency (~ 1-2% of the screened colonies contained correct integration) for 90 232 C. parapsilosis ^12, versus C. albicans. Electroporation is an alternative approach to the transformation of lithium acetate that can improve the conversion efficiency of ^13. Using the ADh2 terminator, while necessary for a generic labeling method, can alter the stability and / or regulation of the generated mRNA from what would happen with a native terminator sequence. This potential issue should be considered when the native function of a protein is important to a specific research question.For fluorescent fusion proteins that are expressed at low levels, an entire microscopic colony for identification or a screen for successful transformants may not be an option. In this case, PCR and Western blot analyzes will provide evidence of a successful sequENCE fusion protein / protein construction. A limitation, common to all fusion protein constructs, is that epitope tags can interfere with the protein’s native function, leading to unexpected mutant phenotypes, including abnormal localization of the fusion protein.Addressing these issues is essential and appropriate controls should be included as indicated.

Plasmids used to generate epitope tags in Candida using this PCR-mediated approach, in addition to those mentioned here, which were previously formed by our research teams and are available to researchers through the Fungal Genetics Stock Center (HTTP: / /www.fgsc.net). More information on some of these plasmids can also be found at (http: // www6.tau.ac.il/berman/). Available plasmids contain many combinations of nutritional and drug resistance markers, FP sequences to create different colored yeast, other epitope tag variants (HA, Myc, V5, HIS9) to create proteins that are not A.P. labeled either carboxy or amino -terminal and promoter sequence for constitutive and regulated expression of proteins. Plasmids containing markers of drug resistance are particularly useful for the field of fungal pathogenesis, as this tool allows for transformation and study of clinical yeast strains that are prototrophic, making conventional food markers unusable.The construction of clinical strains Candida that fluoresce at different wavelengths will be useful for a variety of cellular biological assays that require the ability to visualize and differentiate multiple yeast strains in co-culture.

Invasive fungal diseases due to species Candida continues to be an important human health problem that is difficult to treat and is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, especially in immunocompromised patients ^{14, 15.} Thus, the molecular tools that enable ERS research to more quickly and easily examine Candida species host interactions are vital to deepening our understanding of the biology and pathogenesis of Candida mechanisms.

Subscription Required. Please recommend JoVE to your librarian.

Fungal diseases and infections of the vagina in women – blog of the ON Clinic medical center

The most common diseases in gynecology are precisely fungal infections of the genital organs in women.

As a result of a weakened immune system, the fungus begins to multiply uncontrollably, infecting the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and female genital organs. In gynecology, yeast causes a disease called urogenital candidiasis or thrush. In addition, the fungus can cause vaginitis and vulvovaginitis, when, in addition to the vagina, the colony affects the mucous membranes of the vulva, causing severe burning and itching.

How is genital fungus manifested?

If a woman has noticed the appearance of abundant white cheesy discharge on her underwear, you should immediately seek help from a gynecologist.Perhaps it is a fungus on the genitals.

By touching the external genital organs, fungal infections of the vagina can penetrate into the internal organs of the genitourinary system, thereby leading to severe complications – diseases of the genitourinary system and infertility.

Fungal diseases in women spread to:

• uterus;
• ovaries;
• Fallopian tubes.

Thus, they provoke all new foci of infection.

Fungal genital infections cause such diseases of internal organs in women as:the inability to have children. The main symptoms

As a rule, a fungal infection has the following symptoms:

• Thick discharge of a curdled consistency;
• Intolerable burning and itching in the genital area;
• Pain during urination;
• Pain during intercourse;

Having found such symptoms in herself, the first thing a woman should do is to see a qualified doctor, for example, to us, in ON Clinic.

Types of fungal diseases

Gynecological fungal diseases are most often caused by fungi of the genus Candida, which numbers about 170 species.For example, Candida Parapsilosis, Candida Glabrata, Candida Albicans, and Candida Tropicalis. More than 75% of women of childbearing age will experience a vaginal infection caused by fungi at least once in their life. These are mainly thrush (candidiasis) and candidal vaginitis, most often caused by the fungus Candida albicans.

Fungi of the genus Candida belong to the representatives of the normal microflora of the vagina. However, under the influence of various factors in the female body, favorable conditions are created for parasitizing fungi.World statistics show that candidiasis is diagnosed in 24-36% of cases of visits to a gynecologist.

What causes thrush?

Thrush or female fungus can occur for various reasons. One of the common reasons for the development of candidiasis, doctors call vaginal alkalinization – a change in the normal (acidic) environment of the vagina to alkaline due to hormonal disorders, infectious and gynecological diseases. The alkaline environment in the vagina becomes the impetus for the multiplication of fungi due to the death of microorganisms that make up the natural microflora of the vagina.Taking corticosteroids or antibacterial drugs can lead to illness. Also, thrush can develop:

• against the background of decreased immunity;
• for wearing synthetic underwear;
• due to unprotected sexual intercourse, the use of intrauterine contraceptives.

What is Candida fungus afraid of?

Candida fungi die in an acidic environment. Therefore, yeast in women is treated with drugs that help restore the natural microflora of the vagina.According to the indications, the doctor selects antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory drugs. Immunotherapy is also indicated to restore the full functioning of the immune system.

Vaginal swab – what infections does it show?

A vaginal swab allows you to identify pathogenic microflora in the vagina (bacteria, fungi). This is the simplest and most effective laboratory method for diagnosing the inflammatory process in the female genital organs. Based on the results of the analysis, the gynecologist makes a diagnosis (vaginal candidiasis, vaginitis or other gynecological disease).

Vaginal smear shows:

• the number of leukocytes, lactobacilli, squamous epithelial cells;
• whether the ratio of “useful”, pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms, the number of which should be balanced, has not been violated.

How to get rid of fungi in the body with folk remedies?

Fungal diseases of female organs should be treated only as prescribed by a gynecologist. Self-medication can lead to the development of a chronic form of candidiasis, the appearance of concomitant diseases (erosion of the cervix, diseases of internal organs with damage to the kidney, intestines or bladder fungus).

In case of delayed or incorrect treatment, fungal infections can enter the bloodstream. This is called candidemia. Candidemia is one of the most common fungal infections in the United States, according to the American Centers for Disease Prevention and Control. In addition, fungal infections can lead to other health problems, such as dermatological diseases, as the area around the vagina becomes inflamed due to the parasitic fungus. Prolonged inflammation threatens skin infections and increases the likelihood of the infection spreading to other parts of the body.

How are fungal infections treated?

Treatment of fungal diseases of the genital organs is based on the use of antifungal drugs, which can be administered externally (vaginal ointments) or internally (tablets). The gynecologist selects treatment depending on the type of fungal infection, the patient’s medical history and the course of the disease.

During the period of treatment, we recommend that women refrain from sexual activity. In case of sexual intercourse during treatment, use contraception so as not to aggravate the inflammatory process in the vagina.However, in this case, it must be borne in mind that vaginal creams and suppositories for the treatment of fungal infections can weaken the properties of latex condoms. This could cause it to slip or break.

Prevention of fungal diseases in gynecology

The development of genital fungus in women can be prevented. Preventive measures include adherence to the rules of personal and intimate hygiene, wearing underwear made from natural materials, and using contraceptives. You also need to timely treat all inflammation in the body and regularly undergo scheduled examinations by a gynecologist.

Vaginal fungal infections are therefore a serious health threat to women and should not be neglected. Medical Center ON Clinic conducts diagnostics of female diseases using modern equipment. Thanks to timely diagnostics and therapy, you can completely get rid of the disease and significantly reduce the risk of complications. Treatment of fungal diseases is carried out by the complex use of antifungal drugs of local, local and systemic significance.In order to get rid of the symptoms, their excessive vital activity should be suppressed, restoring the natural microflora of the vagina and at the same time focusing efforts on strengthening the protective properties of the immune system. The result of such therapy is a fairly quick recovery and a decrease in the chances of a relapse of the disease.

Article rating:

4.11 out of 5 based on 9 ratings

Ask your question to the gynecologist

“ON Clinic”

90,000 Analyzes at KDL.Sowing on fungi of the genus Candida with identification

Select the required type of biomaterial

Do not use local antiseptics and antibiotics during the day before the study, exclude any local procedures (rinsing, sprays, drops) for 2 hours. Material for research from the throat is taken in the morning before brushing your teeth, or during the day no earlier than 2 hours after the last meal. The study is carried out before the start of antibiotic therapy.Control of healing – no earlier than 2 weeks after the end of treatment.

Taking material for research is possible only by a doctor of appropriate qualifications.

A medium portion of morning urine is used. Before collecting urine, a thorough toilet of the external genital organs is carried out without the use of antibacterial soap and antiseptics. The study is carried out before the start of antibiotic therapy. Control of healing – no earlier than 2 weeks after the end of treatment.

Do not use local antiseptics and antibiotics during the day before the test, exclude any local procedures (rinses, sprays, drops) for 2 hours. Material for research from the throat is taken in the morning before brushing your teeth, or during the day no earlier than 2 hours after the last meal. The study is carried out before the start of antibiotic therapy. Control of healing – no earlier than 2 weeks after the end of treatment.

Feces are collected in a sterile plastic container in a small volume (no more than 1/3 of the container) from various places of the fecal mass.The chair must be self-contained and assembled from non-absorbent materials.

On the eve of the study, do not use local drugs and procedures, exclude sexual intercourse. When taking a scraping from the urethra, do not urinate for 1.5-2 hours before the procedure. If the study is prescribed to control the cure, then taking the material for research by the PCR method is possible no earlier than 28 days after the end of the antibiotic intake, for microbiological studies no earlier than 14 days.

Scrapings from the urogenital tract are not taken within 24 hours after local therapy (suppositories, ointments, douching), after sexual intercourse and during menstruation in women. After colposcopy, intravaginal ultrasound should pass 48 hours. If there are signs of acute inflammation, the need for a smear is determined by the attending physician. If the study is prescribed to control the cure, then taking the material for microbiological studies no earlier than 14 days after the end of treatment.

Scrapings from the urogenital tract are not taken within 24 hours after local therapy (suppositories, ointments, douching), after sexual intercourse and during menstruation in women. After colposcopy, intravaginal ultrasound should pass 48 hours. If there are signs of acute inflammation, the need for a smear is determined by the attending physician. If the study is prescribed to control the cure, then taking the material for research by the PCR method is possible no earlier than 28 days after the end of the antibiotic intake, for microbiological studies no earlier than 14 days.

Scrapings from the urogenital tract are not taken within 24 hours after local therapy (suppositories, ointments, douching), after sexual intercourse and during menstruation in women. After colposcopy, intravaginal ultrasound should pass 48 hours.