Candidiasis

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Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a fungal infection due to any species of the genus Candida (a yeast).[4] When it affects
the mouth, in some countries it is commonly called thrush.[3] Signs and symptoms include white
patches on the tongue or other areas of the mouth and throat.[3] Other symptoms may include
soreness and problems swallowing.[9] When it affects the vagina, it may be referred to as a yeast
infection or thrush.[2][10] Signs and symptoms include genital itching, burning, and sometimes a
white "cottage cheese-like" discharge from the vagina.[11] Yeast infections of the penis are less
common and typically present with an itchy rash.[11] Very rarely, yeast infections may become
invasive, spreading to other parts of the body.[12] This may result in fevers, among other symptoms.

More than 20 types of Candida may cause infection with Candida albicans being the most
common.[13] Infections of the mouth are most common among children less than one month old,
the elderly, and those with weak immune systems.[5] Conditions that result in a weak immune
system include HIV/AIDS, the medications used after organ transplantation, diabetes, and the use of
corticosteroids.[5] Other risk factors include during breastfeeding, following antibiotic therapy, and
the wearing of dentures.[5][14] Vaginal infections occur more commonly during pregnancy, in those
with weak immune systems, and following antibiotic therapy.[15] Individuals at risk for invasive
candidiasis include low birth weight babies, people recovering from surgery, people admitted to
intensive care units, and those with an otherwise compromised immune system.

Efforts to prevent infections of the mouth include the use of chlorhexidine mouthwash in those with
poor immune function and washing out the mouth following the use of inhaled steroids.[6] Little
evidence supports probiotics for either prevention or treatment, even among those with frequent
vaginal infections.[17][18] For infections of the mouth, treatment with topical clotrimazole or
nystatin is usually effective.[6] Oral or intravenous fluconazole, itraconazole, or amphotericin B may
be used if these do not work.[6] A number of topical antifungal medications may be used for vaginal
infections, including clotrimazole.[19] In those with widespread disease, an echinocandin such as
caspofungin or micafungin is used.[20] A number of weeks of intravenous amphotericin B may be
used as an alternative.[20] In certain groups at very high risk, antifungal medications may be used
preventively,[16][20] and concomitantly with medications known to precipitate infections.

Infections of the mouth occur in about 6% of babies less than a month old.[7] About 20% of those
receiving chemotherapy for cancer and 20% of those with AIDS also develop the disease.[7] About
three-quarters of women have at least one yeast infection at some time during their lives.[8]
Widespread disease is rare except in those who have risk factors.

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