Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

Menopause and Perimenopause Slideshow

• Yeast Infection Overview
• Yeast Infection Causes
• Yeast Infection Symptoms and Signs
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Yeast Infection Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps
• Outlook
• Multimedia
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Yeast Infection Overview

Candidiasis is an infection caused by a group of microscopic fungi or yeast. There are more than 20 species of Candida, the most common being Candida albicans. These fungi live on all surfaces of our bodies. Under certain conditions, they can become so numerous they cause infections, particularly in warm and moist areas. Examples of such infections are vaginal yeast infections, thrush, skin and diaper rash, and nailbed infections.

• Candidal infections commonly occur in warm moist body areas, such as underarms. Usually your skin effectively blocks yeast, but any breakdown or cuts in the skin may allow this organism to penetrate.

• Typical affected areas in babies include the mouth and diaper areas.

• In adults, oral yeast infections become more common with increased age. Adults also can have yeast infections around dentures, under the breast and lower abdomen, nailbeds, and beneath other skin folds. Most of these candidal infections are superficial and clear up easily with treatment.

• Rarely, the yeast infection may spread throughout the body. In systemic candidal disease, up to 75% of people may die. Even common mouth and vaginal yeast infections can cause critical illness and can be more resistant to normal treatment.

• Yeast infections that return may be a sign of more serious diseases such as diabetes, leukemia, or AIDS.