Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)
Candidiasis, sometimes called moniliasis or a yeast infection, is an infection caused by yeast on the skin and/or mucous membranes. Although yeast is normally a harmless inhabitant of the digestive system and vaginal area, it may cause an infection when the skin is damaged, when conditions are warm and humid, and/or when a person has a depressed immune system. Antibiotics can also cause yeast to grow, because the normal bacteria in tissues are killed, letting the yeast grow unhampered.
The symptoms of candidiasis vary depending on the location of the infection. The following are the most common symptoms of a yeast infection. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
|
Location
|
Symptoms
|
| skin folds or navel |
- rash
- patches that ooze clear fluid
- pimples
- itching or burning
|
| vagina |
- white or yellow discharge from the vagina
- itching
- redness in the external area of the vagina
- burning
|
| penis |
- redness on the underside of the penis
- scaling on the underside of the penis
- painful rash on the underside of the penis
|
| mouth (thrush) |
- white patches on tongue and inside of the cheeks
- pain
|
| corners of the mouth (perlèche) |
- cracks and/or tiny cuts at the corners of the mouth
|
| nail beds |
- swelling
- pain
- pus
- white or yellow nail that separates from the nail bed
|
The symptoms of candidiasis may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
In addition to a medical history and physical examination, your physician may scrape off a skin sample to confirm the diagnosis with a microscope or a culture.
Specific treatment for candidiasis will be determined by your physician based on:
- your age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the condition
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the condition
- your opinion or preference
Candidiasis is highly treatable with medicated ointments. Yeast infections in the vagina or anus can be treated with medicated suppositories. Thrush may be treated with a medicated mouthwash or lozenges that dissolve in the mouth. Severe infection or infections in an immunocompromised person may be treated with oral anti-yeast medications.
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