Candida Albicans Flashcards
What 2 conditions can Candida albicans cause?
Oral thrush.
Vaginal thrush.
What type of pathogen is Candida albicans and how does it cause infection?
It is a fungi.
It is an opportunistic fungi that causes infection through overgrowth in its normal flora.
Who is oral thrush common in?
Babies.
People with dentures.
HIV patients.
Chemotherapy.
Patients who have had a long dose of antibiotics.
Patients with asthma that use their inhalers.
How is oral thrush diagnosed?
Lesions in the mouth - can be cultured.
Patients that have an underlying medical condition.
What are the symptoms of oral thrush in adults and babies?
Adults:
- Red mouth with white patches on the tongue and roof of the mouth.
- Cracked corner of the mouth.
- Inability to taste.
- Pain.
- Difficulty swallowing.
Babies:
- White coating on tongue.
- Not feeding.
- Nappy rash.
What is the treatment for oral thrush?
Topical mouth gel or mouthwash.
Fluconazole - antifungal medicine.
Painkillers.
Who does vaginal thrush occur in?
Women who have:
- Had a long dose of antibiotics.
- Oral contraceptive use.
- Co-morbidities.
- Pregnant.
What symptoms do patients with vaginal thrush have?
Itching and burning around the vagina.
Thick discharge.
Redness and swelling of the vagina.
How is vaginal thrush diagnosed?
History of symptoms.
Examination of genitals.
Swab and culture of vaginal discharge.
How is vaginal thrush treated?
Topical - nystatin or clotrimazole.
Can give amphotericin B if systemic.
