Candida

Question 1

Candida is the name of one of the three types of yeast that can infect humans.
What are all the types of yeast that can infect humans?

Answer 1

Tinea
- caused by dermatophyte fungus
Candida
- caused by the candida fungus
Pityriasis versicolor
- caused bu the malassezia fungus

Candida infection also called candidiasis has that white appearance, most common species is Candidiasis albicans:

• requires host to survice
• normal commensal of digestive tract soon after birth
• infection is often associated with immunosuppression

Question 2

Sites of candida infection?

Answer 2

• oral (oral thrush)
• vaginal (vaginal thrush has other section)
• nails
• skin (skin folds - intertrigo)
• balanitis
• nappy rash

Question 3

Risk factors for candida infection?

Answer 3

• extremes of ages
• warm climate
• occlusion of skin (eg nappy)
• diabetes
• iron deficiency
• immunosuppression (HIV, chemo, other)

Rarely invasive candidiasis can occur where it enters the blood stream (severe immunosuppression)

Question 4

Diagnosis of candida?

Answer 4

Often clinical

Swabs can be taken for microscopy and culture but false positives are often common.

Can cause secondary infection in already existing condition eg psoriasis or eczema.

Question 5

Management of candida?

Answer 5

Oral candidiasis:

• often topical
• eg NYSTATIN liquid drops 100,000 units/ml QID for 7 to 14 days
• or MICONAZOLE 2% gel applied orally the swallowed QID for 7-14days
• nystatin first line in babies, miconazole in adults