Candidiasis

Question 1

What is candidiasis?

Answer 1

Fungal yeast infection of the vagina caused by candida albicans

Question 2

Risk factors for candidiasis?

Answer 2

Increased oestrogen caused by pregnancy, post-menopause, pre-puberty
Immunosuppression
Broad spectrum antibiotics
Poorly controlled diabetes

Question 3

Symptoms of candidasis?

Answer 3

THICK WHITE NON SMELLY discharge

VULVAL/VAGINAL ITCHING/IRRITATION

If infection is severe…
Erythema
Fissures
Oedema
Dyspareunia
Dysuria
Excoriation

Question 4

Investigations for candiasis?

Answer 4

Clinical history usually

Vaginal pH swab to differentisate betweem BV/trichomonas (pH >4.5) and candidiasis (pH <4.5)

Charcoal swab - definitive diagnosis

Question 5

Management for candidiasis?

Answer 5

Clotrimazole cream

Clotrimazole pessary

Oral fluconazole

Or oral fluconazole + clotrimazole cream (Canesten Duo)

If more than 4 infections in a year -> induction and maintenance regime with the the above medications

Educate patient that antifungal creams can damage latex condoms and spermicides from working, so advise a different contraceptive for 5 days after use of antifungal