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Cutaneous candidiasis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Candida, flourescent stain
Candida, flourescent stain
Candidiasis, cutaneous - around the mouth
Candidiasis, cutaneous - around the mouth

Alternative Names    Return to top

Skin infection - fungal; Fungal infection - skin; Skin infection - yeast; Yeast infection - skin; Intertriginous candidiasis

Definition    Return to top

Cutaneous candidiasis is infection of the skin with candida fungus.

Causes    Return to top

The body normally hosts a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Some of these are useful to the body, some produce no harm or benefit, and some can cause harmful infections.

Fungal infections are caused by fungi that live on the hair, nails, and outer skin layers. They include mold-like fungi (dermatophytes, which cause tinea infections) and yeast-like fungi (such as candida).

In cutaneous candidiasis, the skin is infected with candida fungi. It is fairly common. Infection can involve almost any skin on the body, but most often it occurs in warm, moist, creased areas such as the armpits and groin. The fungus that most often causes cutaneous candidiasis is Candida albicans.

Candida is the most common cause of diaper rash in infants. The fungi take advantage of the warm, moist conditions inside the diaper. Candida infection is particularly common in people with diabetes and in people who are obese. Antibiotics and oral contraceptives (birth-control pills) increase the risk of cutaneous candidiasis. Candida can also cause infections of the nails (onychomycosis) and at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis).

Oral thrush, a form of candida infection of the moist lining (mucous membranes) of the mouth, is usually associated with taking antibiotics. It may also be a sign of HIV infection or other immunodeficiency disorders when it occurs in adults. Individuals with candida infections are not usually contagious, though in some settings immunocompromised people can catch the infection.

Candida is also the most frequent cause of vaginal yeast infections, which are extremely common and often associated with antibiotics use.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

A diagnosis of cutaneous candidiasis is based mainly on the appearance of the skin, particularly if there are risk factors. Skin scrapings may reveal yeast forms, which usually indicates candida.

Treatment    Return to top

General hygiene is vital to the treatment of cutaneous candidiasis. Keeping the skin dry and exposed to air is helpful. Weight loss may eliminate the problem in obese people, and good sugar control in diabetics may also be helpful.

Topical (applied directly to the skin) antifungal medications may be used to treat infection of the skin, mouth, or vagina. Oral antifungal medications may be necessary for folliculitis, nail infection, or severe candida infections involving the mouth, throat, or vagina.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Cutaneous candidiasis is usually treatable. Repeat infections are common.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of cutaneous candidiasis.

Prevention    Return to top

Good general health and hygiene help prevent candida infections. Keep the skin clean and dry. Drying powders may help prevent fungal infections in people who are susceptible to them. Weight loss and good sugar control in diabetics may help prevent these infections.

References    Return to top

Kauffman CA. Candidiasis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 359.

Update Date: 9/28/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Instructor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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