Candidiasis

Abstract

Candidiasis refers to infections caused by Candida species. Infections of the skin, nails and mucous membranes are the most often encountered candida infections. The most common encountered infections include oral candidiasis, superficial cutaneous candidiasis, candida balanitis, vaginal candidiasis, candida paronychia, candida onychomycosis and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Localized cutaneous candidiasis is the commonest type of disease. Therapy should always include removal of underlying predisposing factors with encouragement for dental and mouth hygiene, keeping dry skin folds, avoidance of detergents that flare up chronic paronychia and reduction of the Candida reservoir in the mouth and gut. Treatment depends on the clinical form. Topical agents used in the treatment of candidiasis include amphotericin B, nystatin, natamycin, miconazole, ketoconazole, econazole, omoconazole, tioconazole, clotrimazole and amorolfine. Systemic agents used include itraconazole and fluconazole. Use of the azoles is not recommended in pregnancy.