Candidiasis Flashcards
what is vaginal candidiasis commonly referred to as?
thrush
causative agent
yeast of the candida family
candida albicans
when does candida often occur?
during pregnancy
after broad spectrum antibiotics
risk factors
increased oestrogen
poorly controlled diabetes
immunosuppression
broad spectrum abx
symptoms
thick, white discharge
no smell
vulval and vaginal itching, irritation or discomfort
what can more severe infections lead to?
erythema fissures oedema pain during sex dysuria excoriation
investigations
often treated emperically
test vaginal pH swab and pH paper
charcoal swab and microscopy
vaginal pH - what does this distinguish between?
>4.5 = BV and trichomonas <4.5 = candidiasis
3 methods of treatment
antifungal cream
antifungal pessary
oral antifungal tablet
what antifungals are used?
intravaginal clotrimazole - 10%
clotrimazole pessary - 500mg
fluconazole oral tablet 150mg
standard OTC medication
canesten duo
fluconazole tablet and clotrimazole cream
what to warn women about antifungal creams and pessaries
damage latex condoms
prevent spermicides from working
other contraception 5 days after use
recurrent infections
> 4 year
induction and maintenance regime with antifungal meds
off-label use
