Candidiasis

candidiasis: Candidiasis (kan-dih-DY-uh-sis), sometimes known as moniliasis (moh-nil-Y-uh-sis), is an infection of the skin and mucous membranes. Typical sites include the mouth and tongue (oral thrush), the female vagina (vaginal yeast infection), and the thighs of babies (diaper or nappy rash).

Cause Candidiasis is caused by a single-celled yeast called Candida albicans. The yeast cells are ubiquitous - present everywhere - and ordinarily the body keeps their numbers under control. They cannot, for example, reproduce well on dry skin. On the moist mucous membranes bacteria keep them in check. The immune system also attacks them. Under certain circumstances, however, the yeast organisms may reproduce out of control. When babies are not kept dry between diaper changes, yeast colonies grow on the moist skin. When antibiotics are used to fight bacterial infection, they may also kill off the useful bacteria on the mucous membranes. In fact, any disorder that weakens the immune system reduces protection against yeast.

Incidence Because yeast is naturally widespread, infections are common.

Symptoms you are likely to notice The skin or mucous membranes are irritated by the spreading yeast colonies and become inflamed - red, itchy, and sore. If the infection occurs in the mouth, milky white patches of yeast may be visible. A vaginal infection may produce a thick, whitish discharge.

Symptoms your physician may observe Samples of the yeast cells can be identified under a microscope.

Treatment options Candidiasis is successfully treated with antifungal medicines, either taken internally or applied topically (on the surface).

Risk factors People who have to undergo extended treatment with antibiotics are at risk for repeated infections. Vaginal infections are often contracted through sexual contact. People with damaged immune systems (such as those with AIDS or those receiving cancer treatment) are especially susceptible.