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Yeast Infection Skin Rash

Yeast Infection Skin Rash Overview

Candidiasis is by far the most common type of yeast infections in human skin. Candidiasis is infection with Candida species. More than 20 species of Candida exist. The most common is Candida albicans. These fungi live on all surfaces of our bodies and only occasionally cause infection. Various types of yeast infections are possible, including the following:

  • Perl èche (also termed angular cheilitis) is a softening of the skin with deep creases around the angles of the mouth


  • Thrush is a candidal infection of the mouth and throat. White patches appear in the mouth. Thrush occurs most commonly in the mouths of persons with chronic diseases including diabetes and HIV/AIDS, those with neoplasms, and those who use systemic corticosteroids. 


  • Intertrigo is an irritation of the folds of the skin. Candidal infections commonly occur in warm moist body areas, such as the underarms, in the groin, breasts, and under the folds of the skin of the abdomen of persons who are obese. Usually, skin effectively blocks yeast, but any breakdown or cuts in the skin may allow this organism to penetrate. 


  • Candidal diaper rash affects the diaper area. It is caused by candidal infection and the impairment of the integrity of the skin due to moisture.


  • Candidal body rash can result from excess sweating, antibiotic use, or lack of movement leading to skin occlusion. It most commonly occurs in people with diabetes who are in the hospital.


  • Candidal vulvovaginitis is a candidal infection of the vaginal tract. Candida albicans is a common inhabitant of the vaginal tract and can result in itching, redness, irritation, and burning.


  • Congential cutaneous candidiasis results from infection of an infant during passage through the birth canal. The rash appears within a few hours of delivery. 


  • Candidal paronychia is a chronic inflammation of the nail fold. In some cases, it causes a discharge with pus, and a soft, watery, swelling of the area around the fingernail.


  • Erosio interdigitalis blastomycetica is a candidal infection between the finger webs. Skin softening and redness occur. Moisture trapped by rings is thought to underlie the condition. It is more commonly seen in people with diabetes and those who work with water (eg, house workers, launderers, and those who are exposed to strong chemicals). 


  • Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis is a condition that results from a genetic defect that leaves those who have it with thick horny skin lesions and with nail dystrophy.


  • Systemic candidiasis is candidal infection throughout the body. This condition is rare. 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. This rash can manifest with bruises that can be felt. The bruises result from a reaction and response to Candida in blood vessels. Systemic yeast infections that return may be a sign of more serious diseases such as diabetes, leukemia, or AIDS.



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Yeast Infection Skin Rash

Diaper Rash Overview

Diaper rash appears on the skin under a diaper. Diaper rash typically occurs in infants and children younger than 2 years, but the rash can also be seen in people who are incontinent or paralyzed.

Almost every baby will get diaper rash at least once during the first 3 years of life, with the majority of these babies 9-12 months old. This is the time when the baby is still sitting most of the time and is also eating solid foods, which may change the acidity of the bowel movements.

Diaper Rash Causes

  • Friction: Most diaper rash is caused by friction that develops when sensitive baby skin is rubbed by wet diapers. This results in a red, shiny rash on exposed areas.

  • Irritation: The skin under the diaper gets red from irritants such as feces, urine, or cleaning agents. Irritation can be caused by the diaper or by the acid in urine and bowel movements. This rash appears red in the area wher...

Read the Diaper Rash article »



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Candidiasis, Chronic Mucocutaneous »

Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) refers to a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by recurrent or persistent superficial infections of the skin, mucous membranes, and nails with Candida organisms, usually Candida albicans.

Read More on eMedicine »

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