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Description of Candidiasis
Candidiasis is an infection of moist areas of the skin, i.e. skin folds or mucous membranes, caused by a fungus. When it occurs in the mouth or vagina it is called thrush.
Persons most commonly affected by Candidiasis - young persons and adults of all age groups and both sexes.
Organ or part of body involved in Candidiasis - mucous membranes of mouth and vagina; skin folds such as under the arms, breasts, genital area, etc.
Symptoms and indications of Candidiasis
Itchy, inflamed areas of skin with small pus-filled blisters that may 'weep' and crust over. In the mouth it forms white patches inside the cheeks and on the tongue and throat. Candidiasis is the most commonly occurring fungal infection and affected persons should consult a doctor.
Treatment of Candidiasis
Treatment of Candidiasis is by means of antibiotics, usually nystatin, which, depending upon the site of the infection may be in the form of oral preparations, cream or ointment, pessaries or inhalations.
Causes and risk factors of Candidiasis
The causal organism is the fungus candida albicans and is generally easy to treat although it may recur. It may occur in people who are 'run-down' or who have recently had to take courses of antibiotics for other illnesses.
It also tends to occur in persons with a depressed immune system, who have been taking immuno suppressive drugs, e.g. transplant patients. It may occur in patients suffering from AIDS.
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