Candidosis is a fungal infection from the overgrowth of a yeast called Candida. This fungus naturally lives on the skin and inside the body as part of a balanced microbial community. An infection occurs when this balance is disrupted, allowing the Candida yeast to multiply beyond its normal levels.
Causes and Risk Factors
The development of candidosis is tied to a disruption of the body’s normal microbial environment. When beneficial bacteria that keep Candida in check are diminished, the yeast can proliferate. A primary trigger for this is the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can kill off healthy bacteria, creating an opportunity for yeast overgrowth.
Certain health conditions and life stages also increase the risk. Individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible. Uncontrolled diabetes is another major factor, as high blood sugar levels promote yeast growth. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or from oral contraceptive use can also alter the body’s environment and facilitate infections.
Common Forms of Candidosis
One of the most recognized forms is oropharyngeal candidosis, commonly called thrush. This infection manifests as white, cottage cheese-like lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat. These patches can be painful and may cause a burning sensation or difficulty swallowing. Scraping these lesions often reveals a red, inflamed base that may bleed slightly.
Vulvovaginal candidosis, or a vaginal yeast infection, is another common form. It is characterized by intense itching, irritation, and inflammation of the vagina and vulva. A primary symptom is a thick, white, clumpy discharge that resembles cottage cheese. Discomfort or a burning feeling during urination or intercourse is also common.
The skin can also be affected by Candida, a condition known as cutaneous candidosis. This infection develops in warm, moist, and creased areas of the skin, such as the armpits, groin, and between the fingers and toes. It appears as a red rash that can cause persistent itching and soreness. In some instances, the rash may develop blisters or small, pus-filled spots.
A far more serious, though less common, form is invasive candidosis. This occurs when the Candida fungus enters the bloodstream and spreads to internal organs like the heart, brain, or kidneys. The symptoms are often non-specific and can include fever and chills that do not respond to standard antibiotic treatments. This form of candidosis requires immediate medical intervention due to its high mortality rate.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing candidosis begins with a physical examination by a healthcare provider. For thrush or cutaneous candidosis, a visual inspection of the rashes or white patches is often sufficient. To confirm the diagnosis, a doctor may take a small sample by scraping the skin or swabbing the affected area. This sample is then examined under a microscope or sent to a lab for a culture to identify the Candida yeast. For suspected invasive candidosis, blood tests are necessary.
Treatment for candidosis is tailored to the type and severity of the infection. Superficial infections like cutaneous and vaginal candidosis are treated with topical antifungal medications, including creams, ointments, powders, or suppositories. Oral thrush may be treated with antifungal lozenges or medicated mouthwashes. For more persistent or widespread infections, oral antifungal pills such as fluconazole are often prescribed. Severe or invasive candidosis requires more aggressive treatment, often involving intravenous antifungal drugs in a hospital setting. The specific medication and duration of treatment are determined by the patient’s health and the Candida species identified.