Candidiasis Flashcards
Definition of candidiasis
Is an infection that is caused by a yeast (type of fungus) called Candida.
• Can occur in the mouth, oesophagus, vagina or GI tract
Aetiology of candidiasis
• Most commonly caused by CANDIDA ALBICANS
◦ Is a commensal in the mouth, vagina and GI tract
Risk factors for candidiasis
• Immunosuppression (e.g long term inhaled corticosteroids, HIV)
• Antibiotic treatment
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Cancer
• Hormonal contraceptives
Pathophysiology of candidiasis
• When the environment inside the mouth, throat, vagina or GI tract changes, it can encourage fungal growth
• Can lead to:
• Oral candidiasis (thrush)
• Oesophageal candidiasis (one of most common infections in those with HIV/AIDS) (thrush)
• Vaginal candidiasis
• Invasive candidiasis
History and examination of candidiasis
OROPHARYNGEAL:
◦ White patches on inner cheeks, tongue, roof of mouth and/or throat: can be scrapped away to reveal erythematous base
◦ Redness or soreness
◦ Cotton-like feeling in the mouth
◦ Pain while eating or swallowing (common for oesophageal candidiasis)
GENITO-URINARY:
◦ Vaginal itching or soreness
◦ Pain during intercourse
◦ Abnormal vaginal discharge
SKIN:
◦ Usually in folds
◦ Soreness and itching
Investigations for candidiasis
• Clinical diagnosis: oral candidiasis can be diagnosed clinically, swabs not always required
• Anti-fungal trial: may be prescribed anti-fungals straight away to see if it helps
• Endoscopy: Used for diagnosis of oesophageal candidiasis
• Blood culture: for invasive candidiasis
Treatment of candidiasis
Mild-moderate mouth and/or throat candidiasis:
1) Antifungal medication:
‣ NYSTATIN, clotrimazole etc
‣ Can be applied inside mouth for 7-14 days or swill and swallow
More severe infection:
1) Fluconazole: taken orally or IV
Oesophageal candidiasis:
1) Fluconazole
Prevention of candidiasis
Maintain good oral health
Rinse mouth or brush teeth after using inhaled corticosteroids
