Bacterial vaginosis vs. yeast infection: How to tell

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal yeast infections can both cause pain and discomfort, difficulty urinating, and itching. Other symptoms, such as vaginal discharge, may differ. Treatment will depend on which infection a person has.

A yeast infection and BV are both infections that cause vaginitis.

Vaginitis is the medical term for inflammation of the vagina. It can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• itching
• pain
• burning
• changes in vaginal discharge
• a foul-smelling odor

Most females have at least one episode of vaginitis in their lifetimes; it is the most common gynecologic diagnosis in a doctor’s practice.

Below, we describe the differences between BV and a yeast infection. In particular, we explore the symptoms of both issues and the steps a person can take to prevent them.

Share on PinterestInflammation of the vagina is an effect of both BV and yeast infections.
Image credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

BV and yeast infections have different causes and risk factors, but both cause inflammation of the vagina — vaginitis. In fact, these infections are two of the most common causes of vaginitis.

When a doctor diagnoses a cause of vaginitis, the cause is:

• BV in around 40–50% of cases
• a yeast infection in 20–25% of cases
• trichomoniasis in 15–20% of cases
• not an infection in the remaining 5–10% of cases

It can sometimes be hard to tell whether a person has BV or a yeast infection, but there are some characteristic signs.

Below, find similarities and differences in the symptoms of BV and a yeast infection:

BV causes

“Vaginal flora” collectively refers to the bacteria that live in the vagina.

Usually, among the vaginal flora, there is more of a type of helpful bacteria, called Lactobacillus, than harmful bacteria.

Certain activities can disrupt the natural balance of the microorganisms in the vagina, and this disruption leads to BV.

Risk factors for BV include:

• vaginal douching
• smoking
• having new or multiple sexual partners
• having sex without a condom
• a natural lack of Lactobacillus bacteria

Yeast infection causes

Bacteria do not cause vaginal yeast infections. Instead, the cause is usually a type of fungus, or yeast, called Candida.

Candida can be naturally present in the vaginal area, but Lactobacillus bacteria usually restrict the growth of Candida.

However, in some situations, Candida multiplies unchecked, leading to a yeast infection.

Risk factors for a yeast infection include:

• using hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills
• being pregnant
• having recently taken antibiotics
• having a weakened immune system

To determine whether a vaginal infection is BV or a yeast infection, a doctor may:

• Ask about the person’s medical history, including previous vaginal infections, which may have been sexually transmitted.
• Perform an examinationto look for signs of infection and vaginal discharge.
• Take a sample of the discharge for analysis, to see whether an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or fungi is present.
• Test the pH of the vagina, as a pH of 4.5 or above can indicate BV.

Around 20% of healthy females tend to have Candida in their vaginas, so a positive fungal culture does not necessarily indicate that the fungus is responsible for any symptoms.

The treatments for BV and a yeast infection are different. Also, the right course of treatment can depend on the severity of the infection.

BV treatment

To treat BV, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic medications, such as:

• Metronidazole (Flagyl). This is available as a pill or a vaginal gel.
• Clindamycin (Cleocin). This is a cream that a person inserts into their vagina.
• Tinidazole (Tindamax). This comes in pill form.

Yeast infection treatment

If a person experiences mild to moderate symptoms of a yeast infection, a doctor may recommend one of the following antifungal medications:

• Miconazole (Monistat) or terconazole (Terazol). Both can be pills, creams, ointments, or suppositories — available over the counter or by prescription.
• Fluconazole (Diflucan). This is a prescription, single-dose oral medication.

If a person has a severe yeast infection, a doctor may recommend taking a long course of antifungal medication, involving multiple doses.

Some strains of Candida are resistant to conventional medications. When one of these strains is causing the infection, the doctor will recommend special antifungal treatments.

It is not always possible to prevent BV or a yeast infection. However, doing the following can reduce the risk:

• Not douching. Douching can upset the natural balance of organisms in the vagina, increasing the risk of infection.
• Wiping from front to back. Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom helps prevent harmful bacteria from entering the vagina.
• Wearing cotton underwear. Cotton allows air to flow to the vagina and keeps moisture from collecting and creating an environment in which yeast thrives.
• Avoiding hot baths and hot tubs. Instead, a person could soak in a warm bath or take a shower.
• Drying thoroughly after washing. Rubbing the genitals can cause or worsen irritation, so a person should gently pat the area dry instead.
• Staying away from irritants. Avoiding harsh or scented soap products can help prevent or ease irritation.

BV and a yeast infection can cause similar symptoms, though there are telltale differences.

Different issues cause the two infections, so they require different treatments.

BV results from an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina, while an overgrowth of Candida fungus causes a yeast infection.

Both infections cause changes in vaginal discharge. BV causes thin discharge with a fishy odor, while a yeast infection causes discharge that is thick and odorless.

Doctors typically recommend antibiotic medications to treat BV and antifungal medications to treat yeast infections. Also, over-the-counter tablets, creams, ointments, and suppositories are available to treat mild to moderate yeast infections.

What does a yeast infection look like? Examples and treatments

The appearance of a yeast infection, or candidiasis, depends on its location. It can cause white patches in the mouth, flaking or crusting of the skin, and changes in genital discharge, which may look like cottage cheese.

In this article, we describe how a yeast infection visibly affects the body. We also look at other symptoms, treatments, and more.

A yeast infection occurs when fungi grow excessively in the body. This is particularly common in moist areas with less exposure, such as the mouth, vagina, or feet.

Often, yeast infections are caused by fungi from the Candida species — and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Candida albicans is the type most likely to overgrow and cause an infection.

A vaginal yeast infection, or thrush, typically causes white discharge that is the texture of cottage cheese.

Other symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include:

• painful urination
• soreness around the vagina
• inflammation and itchiness of the vagina and vulva
• pain during sex

These infections are common, with up to 75% of females having at least one diagnosed in their lifetimes.

Yeast infections can affect the penis, but this is less common. The symptoms tend to develop on the underside of the penis and include:

• scaling
• inflamed patches of skin
• a painful rash

A yeast infection can also cause inflammation near the head of the penis. This issue is called balanitis.

A person with balanitis may experience burning or itching and yellow or white discharge. In some people, the inflammation spreads to the shaft and the area under the foreskin.

Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, it is possible for a person to develop a yeast infection after having oral, anal, or vaginal sex with someone who has the condition, especially if they are especially susceptible.

Around 15% of males who have unprotected sex with females experiencing yeast infections develop the infection themselves.

Oral thrush occurs when yeast grows excessively in the mouth or throat. Typically, a person develops white patches on the tongue, cheeks, back of the throat, or roof of the mouth.

Other symptoms of oral thrush include:

• soreness
• pain while eating or drinking
• a cotton-like feeling in the mouth
• cracked skin at the corners of the mouth
• a loss of taste

Most healthy adults do not develop oral thrush, but yeast infections in the mouth or esophagus are common in people with weakened immune systems.

Wearing dentures, smoking, and having dry mouth also elevate the risk of developing oral thrush.

The appearance of a yeast infection on the skin depends on the location, but this type of infection often causes patches of inflammation. These can vary in shape and size.

Sometimes, these patches itch, flake, or develop crusts, and pustules may appear around the edges.

A yeast infection can occur anywhere on the skin, but is most likely to develop in folds, such as:

• under the breasts
• under the arms
• in the groin
• under or in the buttocks
• in the navel
• on the scalp
• between the fingers and toes

If a yeast infection occurs on the scalp, it can cause crusty lesions that can lead to hair loss. Yeast infections can also cause diaper rash in babies.

Yeast infections can develop beneath the nails. An infected nail may turn white or yellow and start to separate from the nail bed.

When a yeast infection occurs under the nails, a person may experience:

• painful swelling
• pus
• nail loss

In small amounts, Candida fungi are not harmful. Many people have yeast on their skin and in their body. Other types of microbe, such as bacteria, help keep Candida from growing excessively.

However, certain factors can disrupt the body’s ability to keep Candida under control, such as:

• Antibiotics: Because antibiotics kill bacteria, the result may be that Candida fungi grow unchecked.
• Hormonal contraceptives: People who take hormonal birth control that contains estrogen are more likely to develop yeast infections.
• Pregnancy: Similarly, the hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the chances of developing yeast infections.
• A weak immune system: Young babies and people with immune disorders or conditions such as HIV may be more susceptible to yeast infections.
• Medications: Some medications and treatments, including steroids, immunosuppressants, and chemotherapy also weaken the immune system.
• Diabetes: Sugar helps yeast grow, so if a person frequently has high blood sugar levels, they are more likely to develop candidiasis.

Vaginal douches and sprays may also increase the risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection.

The treatment for a yeast infection varies, depending on the infection’s location and severity.

For mild, occasional infections, a person can try over-the-counter options, such as topical creams, nail treatments, or vaginal suppositories.

However, it is important to speak with a pharmacist or doctor first, because the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection are similar to those of bacterial vaginosis and some STIs.

These issues do not respond to yeast infection treatments. They require different approaches and can cause serious health complications if a person does not receive the necessary care.

Also, frequently using antifungal medicine unnecessarily may reduce how effective it is in the future.

For more severe or reoccurring infections, a person may need prescription antifungal medication.

Pregnant women should not take the antifungal medicine fluconazole (Diflucan), as it may cause birth defects, the Office on Women’s Health report.

Some home care strategies may help reduce yeast infection symptoms or prevent the issue from coming back.

Probiotic yogurt may help reduce the amount of yeast in the body. A 2013 pilot study involving 24 women showed that eating 8 ounces of probiotic yogurt per day reduced the presence of Candida in some cases.

However, this was a small study with mixed results. Also, the women had HIV, so their health responses may not reflect those of the general population.

Addressing the cause of the infection is important, especially if the infection keeps coming back. A person may benefit from:

• using a condom during sex
• avoiding the overuse of antibiotics
• switching to a different method of birth control
• better managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes

A person should talk to a doctor if they notice symptoms of a yeast infection.

It is important to receive the right treatment for any infection, and correctly identifying the type of infection is the first step.

Yeast infections often cause changes to genital discharge and patches to form in the mouth or in skin folds.

A doctor can confirm the infection and recommend the best treatment, depending on the severity and the part of the body involved.

How to avoid yeast infections: symptoms, treatment and prevention

Contents

• 1 Prevention and treatment of yeast infections in women: is it necessary to consult a gynecologist?
  • 1.1 What are yeast infections?
  • 1.2 Related videos:
  • 1.3 Origin of yeast infections
    • 1.3.1 Microorganisms
    • 1.3.2 Weak immunity
    • 1.3.3 Diabetes mellitus
    • 1 .3.4 Other factors
  • 1.4 Symptoms of yeast infections
  • 1.5 How is a yeast infection diagnosed?
    • 1.5.1 Clinical signs and history
    • 1. 5.2 Microscopic examination
    • 1.5.3 Culture
  • 1.6 Treatment of yeast infections
    • 1.6.1 Antimicrobials
    • 1.6.2 Topical treatment
    • 1.6.3 Warning
  • 1.7 Prevention of yeast infections
    • 1.7.1 Maintain vaginal hygiene
    • 1.7.2 Avoid tight synthetic clothing and use of pads
    • 1.7.3 Watch your gut bacteria
    • 1.7.4 Keep sex dry and good quality
  • 1.8 Yeast species that cause infections
    • 1.8.1 Candida 9 0008
    • 1.8.2 Cryptococcus (Cryptococcus )
    • 1.8.3 Pythyroid yeast (Pityrosporum)
  • 1.9 Yeast infections: Candida
    • 1.9.1 What is Candida and how does it cause yeast infections?
  • 1.10 Effects of yeast infections on pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • 1.11 Yeast infections and their effects on the immune system
    • 1.11.1 Overview of yeast infections
    • 1.11.2 How do yeast infections affect the immune system?
    • 1. 11.3 How to strengthen the immune system in yeast infections?
    • 1.11.4 Conclusion
  • 1.12 Q&A:
    • • 1.12.0.1 What are the causes of yeast infections?
      • 1.12.0.2 Can yeast infections be avoided?
      • 1.12.0.3 What are the symptoms associated with yeast infections?
      • 1.12.0.4 Do I need to see a doctor for yeast infections?
      • 1.12.0.5 What treatments are used for yeast infections?
      • 1.12.0.6 What role does the immune system play in fighting yeast infections?

Yeast infections are a common disease caused by the fungus Candida. In the article you will find information about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Learn how to prevent recurrences and manage yeast infections in various locations.

Yeast infections are diseases caused by the growth of yeast-like fungi in the human body. Infections are caused by various strains of fungi, including Candida albicans, which is the most common pathogen in humans.

Increased reproduction of yeast-like fungi can occur for various reasons. One of the most common factors is reduced immunity, which can occur as a result of illness, stress, fatigue, or antibiotics. Also, the risk of developing yeast infections increases in women during menstruation and pregnancy, as well as in people with diabetes.

The symptoms of a yeast infection can vary depending on where the fungus is located. The most common infections are in the mouth, vagina, and skin. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and swelling in the affected area, as well as soreness and discharge.

Treatment of yeast infections may include the use of antifungal drugs, as well as the correction of risk factors such as immunodeficiency and impaired microbiocinosis. It is important to consult a doctor at the first signs of infection and identify the cause of its occurrence in order to conduct effective therapy and prevent the development of complications.

What are yeast infections?

yeast infections or fungal infections are diseases caused by fungi that usually live on the skin, in the intestines, or elsewhere in the body. Some of these fungi can cause infections, especially where the skin is damaged or the immune system is weakened.

Candida is a type of fungus that often causes yeast infections. It is usually found on the skin, in the mouth, or on the scalp. If the balance between the general microflora of the body and pathogenic microorganisms is disturbed, Candida can become more aggressive and cause an infection.

Symptoms of yeast infections may include itching, skin rash, swelling, pain, redness or discomfort. The most common yeast infections are caused by an imbalance in the microflora in the vagina in women. In men, yeast infections can be observed on the skin of the genitals or on the glans penis.

Treatment of yeast infections may include the use of antifungals, which quickly kill the fungi that cause infections. It is also recommended to follow the rules of hygiene, avoid tight synthetic clothing and use natural fabrics, as well as maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen immunity and prevent relapses.

• Yeast infections are a contagious disease caused by fungi.
• Candida is one of the common causes of yeast infections.
• Symptoms include itching, skin rash, swelling, pain, redness or discomfort.
• Treatment includes antifungals and good hygiene.

Related videos:

Origin of yeast infections

Yes, often

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Yes, sometimes

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Microorganisms

Yeast infections are the result of the growth and spread of certain types of yeast.

Yeast is naturally present in various parts of the body, including the digestive system, skin and vagina in women.

However, a suitable growth medium can encourage yeast overgrowth and cause infection.

For example, wet shoes and clothing can increase moisture between the toes and promote yeast growth.

Weak immune system

Weak immune system can also cause yeast infections.

When the immune system is unable to effectively fight germs, including yeast, they can more easily enter the body and cause infection.

Weak immunity can be caused by various factors such as stress, lack of sleep, an unbalanced diet and certain medications.

Diabetes mellitus

People with diabetes also have an increased risk of yeast infections.

High blood sugar can encourage yeast growth in the vagina or on the skin.

Complications of diabetes, such as vaginal itching and discharge, may also increase the risk of yeast infections in women.

Other factors

Other factors that can contribute to yeast infections include: taking antibiotics, using harsh shower gels and soaps, using poor quality pads and tampons, acidifying the vaginal environment, etc.

If a yeast infection occurs, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

Skin Problems: One of the most common symptoms of yeast infections is skin rashes. It can occur anywhere on the body where there are wrinkles or warmth. Itching and redness of the skin can also be a symptom.

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Yeast infections can affect the digestive system, leading to diarrhea, constipation, stomach cramps and vomiting. They can also lead to digestive problems with certain foods, such as dairy or wheat.

Fatigue: Yeast infections can cause fatigue and weakness, which is often the result of difficult digestion and toxins from damaged gut microflora.

1. Thrush: One of the most common symptoms of yeast infections is thrush. This is a vaginal infection that occurs due to an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina and can cause itching, burning, and soreness.
2. Fungal nail infections: Yeast infections can also appear as fungal nail infections, which can be very painful and frightening, and they also look unsightly.

If you experience these symptoms intermittently, you may have a yeast infection. It is necessary to visit a doctor and undergo appropriate treatment.

How is a yeast infection diagnosed?

Clinical signs and history

Diagnosis of yeast infections begins with the identification of clinical signs and the patient’s history. Signs may include itching and burning at the site of the lesion, white discharge, swelling, and redness of the skin. It is important to find out if the patient had similar symptoms before, whether he was treated and what results were achieved.

Microscopic examination

To confirm the diagnosis, a microscopic examination of the discharge obtained from the site of the lesion is performed. For this, special dyes are used that allow you to see yeast cells in preparations. This method can help determine which types of yeast are causing the infection.

Culture

In addition, culture is used for diagnosis. The secretions from the lesions are placed in nutrient media that promote the growth of yeast colonies. This method allows you to determine the type of yeast, identify sensitivity to antifungal drugs and choose the most effective treatment.

• It is important to pay attention to clinical signs and patient history when diagnosing yeast infections;
• Microscopic examination of the discharge from the site of the lesion helps to identify the type of yeast;
• Culture helps identify antifungal susceptibility and select the most effective treatment.

Treatment of yeast infections

Antimicrobials

Yeast infections are usually treated with antimicrobials. Some of them can be purchased without a prescription, but for more serious cases, you need to see a doctor and get a prescription for strong antimicrobials. One of the most popular drugs is fluconazole, which is difficult to become stable, which means it will be effective with repeated use. However, the use of antimicrobials can have side effects, so do not overuse them unnecessarily.

Topical treatment

In addition to antimicrobials, topical treatment using creams, ointments or suppositories may be effective. They are a milder treatment option and may be effective in treating the early stages of yeast infections. However, as with any other treatment, do not overuse them unnecessarily, as side effects may be possible.

Warning

To help prevent yeast infections, follow these tips: maintain a healthy diet, avoid excessive alcohol and sugar, wear cotton underwear, use condoms during sexual intercourse, and change tampons and pads periodically.

Prevention of yeast infections

Maintain vaginal hygiene

Maintaining proper hygiene of the vaginal area is very important in preventing yeast infections. You should shower or bathe daily and use a mild soap to clean the area around your vagina. You should also avoid any intimate hygiene products, as they can upset the natural pH balance of the vagina, making it more prone to yeast infections.

Avoid tight synthetic clothing and use of panty liners

Wearing tight synthetic panties or pants can increase moisture and allow yeast to thrive in the vagina. It is better to choose natural fabrics and loose fit. You should also avoid using pads, which can also change the pH balance of the vagina and lead to yeast infections.

Watch your gut bacteria

Immunity has to do with how the nutrients we consume are absorbed. It is also important to monitor the bacteria that are found in the intestines and avoid overeating sugar. Prebiotics are especially helpful, these simple foods help to improve the intestinal microflora. A healthy gut microflora can boost the immune system and prevent infections, including yeast infections in the vagina.

Keep sexual relationships dry and of good quality

Decompensated or sexually inactive women are at increased risk of infections. It is possible to get an infection during intercourse, so you should avoid rough movements and use lubricants if necessary. Sexual partners may also be treated to clear the infection and not carry it back. Otherwise, the healing process will be disrupted and the risks of infection will be higher.

In general, yeast infections can be prevented by good hygiene, looking after your gut bacteria, choosing the right underwear, and avoiding traumatic sexual positions. If you experience symptoms of a yeast infection, see your doctor for appropriate treatment.

Infectious yeast species

Yeast is a single-celled fungus that is often used in industry and food processing, but can also cause various infections in humans.

Candida

Candida is the most common yeast that causes infections in humans. Candida can affect the skin, mouth, genitals, and respiratory organs. This yeast can cause mild itching and irritation, as well as more serious infections such as esophageal candidiasis.

Cryptococcus

Cryptococcus is a yeast that can be found in soil and insects, as well as in animals. Although they are not common infectious agents, cryptococcus can cause very serious illness in humans, such as cryptococcal meningitis, which affects the brain and spinal cord.

Pythyroid yeast (Pityrosporum)

Pythyroid yeast can cause skin infections such as seborrheic dermatitis and pityropsoriasis, which are manifested by various types of rashes. This yeast is found on the surface of the skin in most people, but it can cause an infection in some people.

• Yeast is a type of microorganism that can cause infections in humans.
• Candida is the most common yeast causing infections.
• Cryptococcal meningitis can be caused by cryptococci that are present in soil, insects and animals.
• Pythyroid yeast can cause various skin infections such as seborrheic dermatitis.

Yeast infections: Candida

What is Candida and how does it cause yeast infections?

Candida is a fungal species that can cause yeast infections. It can grow in different parts of the body, such as the mouth, intestines, genitals, or skin.

A healthy body contains a certain amount of Candida, but when this amount is too high, yeast infections can occur. This can happen with a decrease in immunity, taking antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes mellitus or fatty liver disease.

Candida can cause various types of yeast infections such as skin candidiasis, urethritis, vulvovaginitis, thrush and gastroesophageal reflux.

To prevent yeast infections, it is recommended to maintain health through proper nutrition, adequate sleep, stress reduction and avoidance of excessive consumption of alcohol and sugar. It is also important to select probiotics to support healthy gut flora and limit antibiotics to the minimum necessary.

If you suspect a yeast infection, it is best to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Late treatment can aggravate symptoms and cause serious complications.

Effect of yeast infections on pregnancy and breastfeeding

Yeast infections such as candidiasis may affect pregnancy and breastfeeding. During pregnancy, women’s immunity decreases, which can lead to the development of yeast infections. In addition, the use of contraceptives and antibiotics can also contribute to infection.

Pregnant women may be at risk of preterm labor and preterm pregnancy if they have yeast infections. The disease can also be transmitted to the child during childbirth, which will lead to the development of candidiasis in the newborn.

When breastfeeding, the infection can be transmitted to the mammary glands, which can lead to illness and difficulty in feeding the baby. For the prevention and treatment of yeast infections in pregnant women and nursing mothers, consultation with a doctor and the use of appropriate medications is recommended.

Yeast infections and their effects on the immune system

Yeast infections at a glance

Yeast infections are diseases caused by fungi of the genus Candida. They can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, mouth, stomach, and genitals. Often, yeast infections occur when the balance of microorganisms in the body is disturbed, when the number of Candida mushrooms increases dramatically.

How do yeast infections affect the immune system?

Yeast infections can have a negative effect on the immune system. With repeated or prolonged infections, the immune system can weaken and become vulnerable to other diseases. In addition, Candida can lead to symptoms such as inflammation and allergic reactions, which can be detrimental to overall health.

How to strengthen the immune system for yeast infections?

A healthy lifestyle is essential for strengthening the immune system in yeast infections. It is important to eat right, avoid sugary and fatty foods, and increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. It is also important to exercise regularly, control weight and get enough sleep. In addition, you can take complexes of vitamins and minerals, as well as probiotics to restore normal microflora in the body.

Conclusion

Yeast infections can have a negative effect on the immune system, so it is important to take care of your health and take steps to prevent such diseases. In addition, at the first signs of infection, you should consult a doctor in order to start treatment in a timely manner.

Q&A:

What causes yeast infections?

Yeast infections can be caused by microflora disorders, reduced immunity, antibiotics, changes in hormone levels during pregnancy or menopause, irregular sexual activity, and some other factors.

Can yeast infections be avoided?

Personal hygiene and proper nutrition, control of hormone levels, regular sex life, restoration of microflora after taking antibiotics can reduce the risk of yeast infections.

What are the symptoms associated with yeast infections?

Yeast infections typically present with vaginal itching, which can be very intense and persist even after showering, and a white discharge that may be strong-smelling and unpleasant in texture. With a prolonged course of infection, swelling and redness of the vagina may occur.

Do I need to see a doctor for yeast infections?

Yes, you should definitely consult a doctor who will prescribe the appropriate treatment, as well as check the presence or absence of other diseases, so as not to miss a serious pathology.

What treatments are used for yeast infections?

Antifungal medicines are used to treat yeast infections, which can be taken by mouth or topically. It is also important to treat your partner. It is possible to use probiotics and change the diet.

What role does the immune system play in fighting yeast infections?

The immune system plays an important role in fighting yeast infections by controlling the growth of fungi in the body. Therefore, regular strengthening of the immune system can reduce the risk of infections and facilitate their treatment.

Antibody-producing yeast rid mice of clostridium

5 Prepared by

Elizaveta Minina

Scientists from the University of Maryland (USA) have obtained a stable yeast strain Saccharomyces boulardi and , which produces neutralizing antibodies against two toxins of the bacterium Clostridioides difficile . Ingestion of this yeast not only allows infected mice to clear Clostridium, but also provides protection against recurrent infection.

Prepared by

Elizaveta Minina

Clostridia Clostridioides difficile is the dominant causative agent of nosocomial infections in industrialized countries, with symptoms ranging from mild diarrhea to colitis, which can be fatal. Standard antibiotic therapy leads to recurrent infections with high mortality. American explorers on pages Science Translational Medicine proposed a fundamentally new approach to the treatment of infection caused by Clostridioides difficile . They created the yeast strain Saccharomyces boulardii , which produces neutralizing antibodies to clostridial toxins TcdA and TcdB, and showed the effectiveness of taking this yeast as a probiotic in a mouse model of clostridial infection.

The authors of the work created a genetic cassette encoding four heavy chain antibody variable domains, two of which neutralize TcdA, and the other two neutralize TcdB. The cassette was placed in an expression vector so that the adjacent yeast mating factor α secretion signal would ensure continuous secretion of neutralizing antibodies by the yeast cells. To ensure the selection of successfully transfected cells, the researchers injected the vector into cells of a uracil auxotrophic strain, with the expression vector encoding the genes required for uracil biosynthesis.

The resulting yeast producing neutralizing antibodies was orally administered as a probiotic to mice infected with Clostridioides difficile . Yeast supplementation reduced mortality in initially infected mice, reduced symptoms of diarrhea, inflammation, tissue damage, and helped them gain weight without side effects. Yeast has been shown to be effective in the treatment of recurrent clostridial infection, and has proven to be a good tool for prevention.

The authors of the study note the numerous advantages of a new approach to the treatment of clostridial infection using yeasts that produce neutralizing antibodies.