Yeast infections
Yeast infections, medically known as candidiasis, are fungal infections caused by an overgrowth of yeast, a type of fungus. The most common yeast responsible for these infections is Candida albicans, although other species of Candida can also cause infections. Yeast infections can occur in various parts of the body, but they are most commonly associated with the vaginal area, leading to what is often referred to as a vaginal yeast infection.
In the context of vaginal yeast infections, symptoms typically include itching, irritation, and a thick, white discharge that resembles cottage cheese. These infections are quite common, with many women experiencing at least one in their lifetime. Factors that can contribute to the development of a vaginal yeast infection include antibiotic use, which can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina, hormonal changes such as those occurring during pregnancy or from oral contraceptive use, and conditions that affect the immune system, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS.
Yeast infections can also occur in other areas of the body. Oral thrush is a yeast infection of the mouth, characterized by white patches on the tongue and inside the cheeks. Diaper rash in infants can sometimes be caused by yeast. Invasive candidiasis is a more serious condition where the yeast enters the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body, which can occur in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Diagnosis of a yeast infection typically involves a physical examination and may include laboratory tests to identify the presence of Candida. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications, which can be administered orally or topically, depending on the location and severity of the infection. Over-the-counter antifungal creams and suppositories are commonly used for vaginal yeast infections, while prescription medications may be necessary for more severe or recurrent cases.
Preventive measures include maintaining good hygiene, wearing breathable clothing, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use. It is also important to manage underlying health conditions that may predispose an individual to yeast infections.
In summary, yeast infections are a common fungal condition caused by an overgrowth of Candida species. They can affect various parts of the body, with vaginal yeast infections being the most prevalent. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for effective management and prevention of these infections.
| Candidiasis | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Candidosis, moniliasis, oidiomycosis |
 | |
| Oral candidiasis (thrush) | |
| Specialty | Infectious disease |
| Symptoms | White patches or vaginal discharge, itching |
| Causes | Candida (a type of yeast) |
| Risk factors | Immunosuppression (HIV/AIDS), diabetes, corticosteroids, antibiotic therapy |
| Medication | Clotrimazole, nystatin, fluconazole |
| Frequency | 6% of babies (mouth) 75% of women at some time (vaginal) |
Candidiasis is a fungal infection due to any species of yeasts in the genus Candida or those that were formerly classified in genus Candida but are now classified in the genus Candidozyma. When it affects the mouth (oral candidiasis) it is commonly known as thrush. Signs and symptoms include white patches on the tongue or other areas of the mouth and throat. Other symptoms may include soreness and problems swallowing. When it affects the vagina, it may be referred to as a yeast infection or thrush. Signs and symptoms include genital itching, burning, and sometimes a white "cottage cheese-like" discharge from the vagina. Yeast infections of the penis are less common and typically present with an itchy rash. Very rarely, yeast infections may become invasive, spreading to other parts of the body. This may result in fevers, among other symptoms. Finally, candidiasis of the esophagus is an important risk factor for contracting esophageal cancer in individuals with achalasia.
More than 20 types of Candida may cause infection with Candida albicans being the most common. Infections of the mouth are most common among children less than one month old, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems. Conditions that result in a weak immune system include HIV/AIDS, the medications used after organ transplantation, diabetes, and the use of corticosteroids. Other risk factors include during breastfeeding, following antibiotic therapy, and the wearing of dentures. Vaginal infections occur more commonly during pregnancy, in those with weak immune systems, and following antibiotic therapy. 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. Little evidence supports probiotics for either prevention or treatment, even among those with frequent vaginal infections. For infections of the mouth, treatment with topical clotrimazole or nystatin is usually effective. Oral or intravenous fluconazole, itraconazole, or amphotericin B may be used if these do not work. A number of topical antifungal medications may be used for vaginal infections, including clotrimazole. In those with widespread disease, an echinocandin such as caspofungin or micafungin is used. A number of weeks of intravenous amphotericin B may be used as an alternative. In certain groups at very high risk, antifungal medications may be used preventively, and concomitantly with medications known to precipitate infections.
Infections of the mouth occur in about 6% of babies less than a month old. About 20% of those receiving chemotherapy for cancer and 20% of those with AIDS also develop the disease. About three-quarters of women have at least one yeast infection at some time during their lives. Widespread disease is rare except in those who have risk factors.