Candidiasis Flashcards
Candidiasis is infection with ______ caused by _________
Infection with Candida species, caused by an overgrowth of the organisms often present in small amounts in the genital tract
What is the usual organism that causes candidiasis?
Candida albicans
Is candidiasis considered to be an STI?
No
What causes candidiasis?
Often no clear cause but some risk factors have been identified
Risk factors for candidiasis include…
Abx use (within past 3m)
Poorly controlled diabetes
Increase in oestrogen (exogenous or endogenous) including pregnancy, MHT and possibly COC
Skin conditions e.g. eczema or dermatitis
Immunosuppression
Candidiasis may cause _________ in males, especially if __________
May cause balanitis, especially if uncircumcised
Presentation of vulvovaginal candidiasis infection
White ‘curd like’ vaginal discharge
Genital or vulval itch, discomfort
Superficial dyspareunia
External dysuria
Excoriation, erythema, fissures, swelling
Is discharge always abnormal with candidiasis?
No, can appear normal
Presentation of penile candidiasis infection
Red rash on genitals, especially under foreskin (may or may not be itchy)
Swelling of foreskin if severe
Fissures
Superficial erosions
How common is candidiasis in women?
~75% women will experience at least one lifetime episode
_____ % of women will have recurrent candidiasis
<5%
Recurrent candidiasis defined as…
4 or more symptomatic episodes within 12 months
Indications for testing for candidiasis
Vaginal discharge
Vaginal odour or itch
Genital discomfort
Superficial dyspareunia
Genital rash, erosions or fissures
Should you test asymptomatic people for candidiasis?
Routine screening in asymptomatic people is not recommended
Why is examination recommended for candidiasis?
Exam is recommended for thorough assessment as symptoms are non-specific and may be due to other conditions such as dermatitis or genital herpes
What can you do if examination is declined?
Self-collected swabs can be done if exam is declined, but this is not recommended
Should you also check for STIs?
STIs symptoms are similar to those of candidiasis. Unless STIs have been excluded, testing should occur as part of a full sexual health check