FitSugar

Yeast Infection Vaccine?

FitSugar — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 03:00:00 -0700

If you've ever had to deal with the annoyance of a yeast infection, then you might be interested to know a vaccine to prevent them is in the works. Early lab tests of the vaccine performed on mice have been successful.

Female mice were given one of several variations of the vaccine, and then were exposed to a lethal dose of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for yeast infections. Another group of female mice were given a placebo vaccine to create a control group. The mice who received the yeast infection vaccine had a 40 to 100 percent survival rate, while the control group sadly all died. I'm not sure why they had to give them a "lethal dose" of this fungus (since I wouldn't say a typical yeast infection is deadly - just horribly uncomfortable), but it seems that the vaccine has worked.

Tell me ladies, once this becomes safe for humans, would you get a vaccine to prevent yeast infections?

Source

Candida albicans antigen (Intradermal)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:11:23 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Candida Albicans Antigen

Given as a skin test to detect an allergic reaction.

Brand Name(s)

Candin

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not receive this medicine if you have had a severe allergic reaction to Candida albicans antigen, or to any other type of skin test.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

This medicine is given as a shot into the surface of your skin.
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
Your doctor will need to check your skin reaction within 48 hours of when you received the shot.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a steroid medicine such as dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, or Medrol®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Tell your doctor if you have a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia, or if you bruise easily.
If you have a reaction to this medicine, you may develop redness, swelling, itching, a raised scratch, or changes in skin color where the shot was given. These signs may appear within 24 hours of receiving the injection. Most symptoms will disappear within a few hours or days. Changes in skin color can last for several weeks.
Your doctor may allow you to treat minor skin discomfort with a cold compress or topical medicine. Do not treat your skin reaction without first asking your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Blistering or peeling of your skin.
Chest pain, fast heartbeat.
Lightheadedness or fainting.
Oozing, weeping, or ulceration of your skin where the shot was given.
Skin swelling with a hard lump where the shot was given.
Sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath.
Stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5431

Candida esophagitis

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:51:07 -0700

Illustrations

Candida, flourescent stain

Candidal esophagitis

Upper gastrointestinal system

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Candida esophagitis is a fungal or yeast infection of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

Alternative Names

Candida infection - esophagus; Yeast infection - esophagus

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Candida esophagitis is caused by the yeast Candida. It occurs when the yeast spreads from the mouth down the esophagus.

The condition is often a sign of a weakened immune system. The following raise your risk for Candida infections:

AIDS
Chemotherapy
Diabetes
Leukemia or lymphoma
Organ transplants
Other conditions that suppress or weaken the immune system

Oral thrush or a yeast infection makes an immunocompromised person more likely to get esophagitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

Difficulty swallowing
Fever if the fungus spreads further
Painful swallowing
Possible Candida in the mouth (oral thrush, with white mouth sores)

Signs and tests

Tests that show Candida include:

EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) with or without biopsy, staining, and culture
Throat swab culture
Upper GI and small bowel series

Treatment

Antifungal medicines, taken by mouth or injection, are prescribed.

Expectations (prognosis)

Esophagitis can usually be treated effectively. The outcome depends upon the underlying immune system problem that makes the person susceptible to the infection.

Complications

Holes in the esophagus
Recurrent infection
Spread of Candida to other sites

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of esophagitis, especially if you know that you are immunosuppressed.

Prevention

Preventing AIDS lowers your risk for opportunistic infections, such as Candida. Opportunistic infections are infections by organisms that are not normally disease producing, but take advantage of a situation, such as a damaged immune system.

Good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of infection.

Review Date: 11/1/2007

Reviewed By: Kenneth M. Wener, M.D., Department of Infectious Diseases, Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_000643

Diaper dermatitis - Candida-associated

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:53:22 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Symptoms
Signs and tests
Treatment
Expectations (prognosis)
Complications
Calling your health care provider
Prevention

Illustrations

Candida, flourescent stain

Diaper rash

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Candida-associated diaper dermatitis is an infection of the skin beneath an infant's diaper. It is caused by yeasts (Candida organisms).

Alternative Names

Dermatitis - diaper and Candida; Candida-associated diaper dermatitis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Diaper rashes caused by infection with Candida species are very common in children. Candida is found everywhere in the environment, and takes advantage of the warm, moist area under a diaper to cause infections on the skin.

The infection may begin as a very red patch with irregular (but sharp) borders. Smaller red patches can spread out from the original border and blend in with the larger patch. The rash may spread to include the entire area covered by the diaper, including the scrotum and penis in boys, and the labia and vagina in girls.

Candidal diaper rashes can be associated with oral candidiasis, or thrush. In this case, the oral infection must also be treated.

Symptoms

Bright red patch of rash that gets bigger (patch is made up of small papules and vesicles with pus)
Smaller red patches (satellite lesions) that grow and blend in with the other patches
The infant scratches when the diaper is removed
Scrotum may become fiery red and scaly (boys)
The infant may also have oral thrush

Signs and tests

Candidal diaper dermatitis can be diagnosed by examination alone because the rash has a unique appearance. The KOH test can confirm a Candida diagnosis.

Treatment

Topical antifungal skin creams and ointments will clear up infections caused by yeast. Miconazole and clotrimazole are available over-the-counter.

Prescription antifungals include:

Nystatin
Ketoconazole

Expectations (prognosis)

The rash usually responds well to treatment.

Complications

Complications from Candida-associated diaper rash can include:

Secondary infection

Calling your health care provider

If your baby has a diaper rash that doesn't respond to home treatment, you should have the baby examined by your health care provider.

Prevention

It can be hard to prevent Candida infections, because these organisms are in the environment. Using highly absorbent disposable diapers to keep the skin dry reduces the chance of getting an infection. Changing the diaper soon after the baby urinates or passes stool also can help prevent infection.

Review Date: 8/15/2007

Reviewed By: Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_000964

Skin testing, PPD (R arm) and Candida (L)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:34:41 -0700

Back

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

The right arm represents a positive reaction to PPD (a skin test for tuberculosis protein). The left arm represents a positive reaction to Candida protein. Candida antigen is tested to determine if the individual's immune system is functioning well; a normal immune system demonstrates a positive reaction.

Review Date: 7/17/2007

Reviewed By: Donald Accetta, MD, MPH, President, Allergy & Asthma Care, PC, Taunton, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 2_2823

Candida, flourescent stain

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:22:10 -0700

Back

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

This microscopic film shows a fluorescent stain of Candida. Candida is a yeast (fungus) that causes mild disease, but in immunocompromised individuals it may cause life-threatening illness. (Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)

Review Date: 11/1/2007

Reviewed By: Kenneth M. Wener, M.D., Department of Infectious Diseases, Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 2_1053

Cutaneous candidiasis

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:52:45 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Symptoms
Signs and tests
Treatment
Expectations (prognosis)
Complications
Calling your health care provider
Prevention

Illustrations

Candida, flourescent stain

Candidiasis, cutaneous - around the mouth

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Cutaneous candidiasis is an infection of the skin, caused by the fungus candida.

Alternative Names

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

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

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 benefits, while others may cause harmful infections.

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

Cutaneous candidiasis involves infection of the skin with candida. It may involve almost any skin surface on the body, but usually occurs in warm, moist, creased areas such as armpits and groins. Cutaneous candidiasis is fairly common.

Candida is the most common cause of diaper rash in infants, where it takes advantage of the warm moist conditions inside the diaper. The most common fungus to cause these infections is Candida albicans.

Candida infection is particularly common in individuals 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 nail, referred to as onychomycosis, and infections around the corners of the mouth, called angular cheilitis.

Oral thrush, a form of candida infection found on the mucous membranes (moist lining) of the mouth, is most commonly 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 considered infectious to others, though in some settings transmission to immunocompromised people can occur.

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

Symptoms

Itching (may be intense)
Skin lesion or rash
- Skin redness or inflammation
- Enlarging patch
- Macule or papule
- May have satellite lesions (smaller lesions next to bigger ones)
- Located on the skin folds, genitals, trunk, buttocks, under the breasts, or on other skin areas
- Infection of hair follicles ("folliculitis") may have a pimple-like appearance

Signs and tests

Diagnosis is mainly based on the appearance of the skin, particularly if risk factors are present. A skin scraping can show typical yeast forms, suggestive of candida.

Treatment

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 antifungal medications may be used to treat infection of the skin; systemic antifungal medications may be necessary for folliculitis or nail infection.

Expectations (prognosis)

Cutaneous candidiasis is usually treatable, but occasionally is difficult to remove. Repeat infections are common.

Complications

Recurrence (repeat) of candida skin infection
Infection of nails may cause nails to become oddly shaped and may cause infection around the nail
Disseminated candidiasis may occur in immunocompromised individuals

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate cutaneous candidiasis.

Prevention

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.

Review Date: 9/5/2006

Reviewed By: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_000880

Candidiasis

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:34:55 -0700

Overview

Signs and Symptoms
What Causes It?
What to Expect at Your Provider's Office
Treatment Options
Following Up
Special Considerations
Supporting Research

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Candidiasis is an infection caused by a yeastlike fungus called candida. It can infect the mouth, vagina, skin, stomach, and urinary tract. About 75 percent of women will get candidiasis of the vagina during their lifetime, and 90 percent of all people with HIV/AIDS develop candida infections.

Signs and Symptoms

Creamy white patches in the mouth or on the throat
Painful cracks at the corners of the mouth
Skin rashes, patches, and blisters found most commonly in the groin, between fingers and toes, and under the breasts
Vaginal itching and irritation with a curdlike discharge

What Causes It?

Normal amounts of candida existing in the mouth, stomach, and vagina do not cause infections. Candidiasis occurs when there is a buildup of candida. Causes may include taking certain drugs (especially antibiotics), pregnancy, being overweight, bacterial infection, or several different health conditions (for example, immune disorders, diabetes, and psoriasis).

What to Expect at Your Provider's Office

Your health care provider may take samples for testing (for example, a vaginal wet smear) and do extensive tests (such as a CT scan or test of your stool) if it appears that the infection has spread. Your health care provider may prescribe antifungal medication and recommend dietary changes. These treatments usually cure candidiasis. If you have recurrent bouts of candidiasis, your provider will explore the possibility of an immune deficiency or some other disease.

Treatment Options

Drug Therapies

Many antifungal medications are available to treat candidiasis. Your health care provider will prescribe a drug depending on the location and severity of your disease.

Antifungal medications -- include oral rinses and tablets, vaginal tablets and suppositories, and creams. Side effects vary.
Antibiotics -- cure certain types of candida.
Topical vaginal creams and suppositories.
Creams combined with low-strength corticosteroids -- reduce inflammation and itching.

Most treatments last from 2 - 3 days to 2 weeks. Be sure to take all medicine exactly as prescribed. If you do not, the same infection could come back. Reinfection with a new strain of candida also can occur. For more severe candidiasis, you will receive fluids and electrolytes through an IV.

Some topical vaginal creams and suppositories are available over the counter and may be used for 1 - 7 days. See your provider if the condition persists.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Some studies indicate that reducing sugar in the diet may help prevent yeast infections. Other dietary factors contributing to candidiasis may include high amounts of milk, dairy products, and foods with high concentrations of yeast (cheese, peanuts, alcohol). The "candida diet" allows no alcohol, no simple sugars, no yeast, and very limited amounts of refined foods. Alternative therapies use natural antifungals or probiotics ("friendly" bacteria) as well as immune-strengthening therapies to improve the body's ability to keep candida, a naturally occurring micro-organism, in check. There is conflicting evidence as to whether eating yogurt with live probiotic cultures every day can help prevent yeast infections, but it certainly does no harm.

Lactobacillus acidophilus (1 - 10 billion live organisms per day) to help restore normal balance of bacteria in the bowel and mucous membranes. Other probiotics include bifidobacteria (10 billion colony-forming units per day).
Vitamin C (500 - 1,000 mg per day), vitamin E (200 - 400 IU per day), and selenium (200 mcg per day) are anti-inflammatory and support immune function.
Essential fatty acids: anti-inflammatory, a mix of omega-6 (evening primrose) and omega-3 (flaxseed) may be best (2 tbs. oil per day or 1,000 - 1,500 mg twice a day). Reduce animal fats in your diet and increase fish and nuts.
B-complex: B1 (50 - 100 mg), B2 (50 mg), B3 (25 mg), B5 (100 mg), B6 (50 - 100 mg), B12 (100 - 1,000 mcg), folate (400 mcg per day).
Calcium (1,000 - 1,500 mg per day) to correct deficiency often found in people with yeast infections, and magnesium (750 - 1,000 mg per day) to balance calcium intake.
Caprylic acid (1 g with meals) is an antifungal fatty acid.
Zinc (15 mg per day) appears to increase resistance in animal studies.
Avoid simple carbohydrates, including fruit juice, yeast, and fermented foods. Limit fruit to one serving per day. Increase garlic (fungicidal), nuts (essential fatty acids), whole grains (B vitamins), oregano, cinnamon, sage, and cloves (antifungal spices).
Avoid overuse of antibiotics that kill off the friendly bacteria that normally keep candida in check. Talk to your doctor about the proper use of antibiotic medications, when they are necessary, and when it may be safe to try alternatives first.

Herbs

Herbs are generally a safe way to strengthen and tone the body's systems. As with any therapy, you should work with your provider to get your problem diagnosed before starting any treatment. You may use herbs as dried extracts (capsules, powders, teas), glycerites (glycerine extracts), or tinctures (alcohol extracts). Unless otherwise indicated, you should make teas with 1 tsp. herb per cup of hot water. Steep covered 5 - 10 minutes for leaf or flowers, and 10 - 20 minutes for roots. Drink 2 - 4 cups per day. You may use tinctures alone or in combination as noted.

Pau d'arco bark (Tabebuia avellanedae): antifungal, best used as a tea (2 tbs. boiled in 1 quart of water; 3 - 6 cups per day), or use the cooled tea as a vaginal douche.
Garlic (Allium sativum) has antifungal properties. Take the equivalent of one clove per day (or one tablet that equals 4,000 - 5,000 mcg of allicin).
The juice of the herb echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) has been shown to lower the recurrence of vaginal yeast infections. Take 2 - 4 ml per day .
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), Oregon grape root (Mahonia nervosa), and barberry (Berberis vulgaris) contain berberine, a digestive and immune stimulant. Take 2 - 4 grams of the dried bark or 250 - 450 mg of the herbal extract three times per day. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) are anti-inflammatory. Use a tea or tincture (1 cup tea three times per day or 30 - 60 drops tincture three times per day) for 6 weeks. Do not take licorice if you have high blood pressure or heart failure.
Topical treatments include tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) or lavender essential oil (Lavandula species) two to three times a day. Apply full strength to skin infections (discontinue if skin irritation develops). You can apply marigold (Calendula officinalis) three to five times per day in a salve for rashes. These treatments are for external use only.
Fireweed (Epilobium parviflorum): take as a tea for oral, vaginal, and intestinal candidiasis.

Homeopathy

Some of the most common remedies used for candidiasis are listed below. Usually, the dose is 3 to 5 pellets of a 12X to 30C remedy every 1 - 4 hours until your symptoms get better.

Borax for bleeding oral mucosa, especially with diarrhea
Belladonna for bright red, inflamed skin that is not raw or oozing, but is painful, especially with irritability
Chamomilla for "diaper" rash, especially with irritability
Arsenicum album for burning, itching rashes, especially with anxiety
Graphites for thick, cracked skin (corners of mouth or heels)
Kreosotum for leukorrhea that causes itching and swelling

Acupuncture

Acupuncture may help stimulate the immune system, digestion, and relieve stress.

Following Up

You can prevent another yeast infection by taking lactobacillus acidophilus when you take antibiotics, wearing cotton or silk underwear, maintaining good hygiene, and staying at the proper weight. Women should avoid douches (except when medically necessary), vaginal deodorants, and bubble baths.

Special Considerations

Be sure to tell your health care provider if you are pregnant.

Supporting Research

Arora DS, Kaur J. Anti-microbial activity of spices. Int J Antimicrob Agents. 1999;12:257-62.

Bartram T. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. Dorset, England: Grace Publishers; 1995:263, 417.

Berkow R, Fletcher AJ, eds. The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy. Rahway, NJ: Merck & Company Inc; 1992.

Bhakat MP. Therapeutic trial of Berberine sulphate in non-specific gastroenteritis. Indian Med J. 1974;68:19-23.

Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, Mass: Integrative Medicine Communications; 1998:463.

Hronek M, Vachtlova D, Kudlackova Z, Jilek P. Antifungal effect in selected natural compounds and probiotics and their possible use in prophylaxis of vulvovaginitis. Ceska Gynekol. 2005 Sep;70(5):395-9.

Coeugniet E, Kühnast R. Recurrent candidiasis: Adjutant immunotherapy with different formulations of Echinacin®. Therapiewoche. 1986;36:3352-3358.

Conn RB, Borer WZ, Snyder JW, eds. Current Diagnosis 9. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders Co; 1996.

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C, et al., eds. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Co; 1998:728.

Henry JR. Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders Co; 1996.

Morrison R. Desktop Guide to Keynotes and Confirmatory Symptoms. Albany, Calif: Hahnemann Clinic Publishing; 1993:68, 115-117, 171-172, 210.

Tierney LM Jr, McPhee SJ, Papadakis MA, eds. Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment 1999. 38th ed. Stamford, Conn: Appleton & Lange; 1999.

Review Date:
6/15/2006
Reviewed By:
Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D., private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Vaginal yeast infection

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 18:47:01 -0700

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

This is a vaginal infection caused most commonly by the fungal organism Candida albicans.

Alternative Names

Yeast infection - vagina; Vaginal candidiasis; Monilial vaginitis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Candida albicans is a widespread organism found throught the world. It exists in small amounts in the vagina, the mouth, the digestive tract, and on the skin without causing disease or symptoms (approximately 25% of women without disease symptoms have this organism present).

Symptoms appear when the number of Candida albicans becomes larger in relation to the other microorganisms that normally inhabit the vagina. Candida albicans grows when the vagina has certain favorable conditions or when it is difficult for other microorganisms to survive. This causes the imbalance that leads to a yeast infection.

Yeast infection may follow a course of antibiotics that were prescribed for another purpose. The antibiotics change the normal balance between organisms in the vagina by decreasing the number of protective bacteria.

Infection is common and most women will have a vaginal yeast infection at some time. Other causes of a vaginal yeast infection are being pregnant, having diabetes, or having conditions that affect the immune system (such as AIDS or HIV).

Vaginal candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted disease. However, 12 - 15% of men will develop symptoms such as itching and rash on the penis following sexual contact with an infected partner.

Multiple vaginal yeast infections may be a sign of other health problems. Other vaginal infections and discharges can be mistaken for a vaginal yeast infection.

Repeat infections that occur immediately following treatment, or a persistent yeast infection that does not respond to treatment, may be the first or, at least, an early sign that an individual is infected with HIV.

Both men and women with HIV infection who have developed AIDS may be subject to Candida albicans infection throughout the body, including oral candidiasis (in the mouth), esophageal candidiasis (in the esophagus), and cutaneous candidiasis (on the skin).

Symptoms

Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Ranges from a slightly watery, white discharge to a thick, white, chunky discharge (like cottage cheese)
Inflammation of the vulvar skin
Pain with intercourse
Painful urination
Redness of the vulva
Vaginal and labial itching, burning

Signs and tests

A pelvic examination will be done. It may show inflammation of the skin of the vulva, within the vagina, and on the cervix. The health care provider may find dry, white plaques on the vaginal wall.

A wet prep (microscopic evaluation of vaginal discharge) shows Candida.

Treatment

Generally, the first incidence of yeast infection should be treated by your health care provider.

After the first infection, if you develop another infection and you are absolutely certain it is a yeast infection, you can treat it at home with over-the-counter vaginal creams such as miconazole or clotrimazole. Symptoms that don't go away should be evaluated by your gynecologist or primary health care provider.

Medications for vaginal yeast infections are available in either vaginal cream/suppositories. Oral medication should be avoided during pregnancy.

Expectations (prognosis)

The symptoms usually disappear completely with adequate treatment.

Complications

Chronic or recurrent infections may occur. This may be from inadequate treatment or self-reinfection.

Secondary infection may occur. Intense or prolonged scratching may cause the skin of the vulva to become cracked and raw, making it more susceptible to infection.

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if this is the first time that you have vaginal yeast infection symptoms, or if you are unsure if you have a yeast infection. (If you are sure that you have a yeast infection, you can treat the disorder with over-the-counter medications.)

Call your health care provider if symptoms don't go away after using self-treatment vaginal creams, or if you have or develop other symptoms.

Prevention

Avoid persistent and excessive moisture in the genital area by wearing underwear or pantyhose with cotton crotches, and loose-fitting slacks. Avoid wearing wet bathing suits or exercise clothing for long periods of time, and wash them after each use.

References

Eckert LO, Lentz, GM. Infections of the Lower Genital Tract: Vulva, Vagina, Cervix, Toxic Shock Syndrome, HIV Infections. In: Katz VL, Lentz GM, Lobo RA, Gershenson DM, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2007: chap 22.

Review Date: 5/12/2008

Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_001511

Thrush

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:51:00 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Symptoms
Signs and tests
Treatment
Expectations (prognosis)
Complications
Calling your health care provider
Prevention
References

Illustrations

Candida, flourescent stain

Mouth anatomy

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Thrush is a yeast infection of the mucous membranes of the mouth and tongue.

Alternative Names

Candidiasis - oral; Oral thrush

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Thrush is caused by forms of a fungus called Candida. This organism lives in your mouth and is usually kept in check by healthy organisms that also live there. However, when your resistance to infection is low, the fungus can grow, leading to lesions in your mouth and on your tongue.

The following can lessen your resistance to infection and increase your chances of getting thrush:

Taking antibiotics or steroid medications
Having HIV infection or AIDS
Receiving chemotherapy for cancer or drugs to suppress your immune system following an organ transplant
Being very old or very young
Being in poor health
Having diabetes

Thrush is commonly seen in infants. It is not considered abnormal in infants unless it lasts longer than a couple of weeks.

Candida can also cause yeast infections in the vagina.

Symptoms

Thrush appears as whitish, velvety lesions in the mouth and on the tongue. Underneath the whitish material, there is red tissue that may bleed. The lesions can slowly increase in number and size.

If you are immunocompromised (for example, you are HIV positive or receiving chemotherapy), the infection can spread to other organs, such as the esophagus (causing pain with swallowing), or throughout your body, which can be deadly.

Signs and tests

Your doctor or dentist can almost always diagnose thrush by looking at your mouth and tongue. These fungal lesions have a distinct appearance. If not entirely clear, one of the following tests may be performed to look for the candida organisms:

Microscopic examination of mouth scrapings
Culture of mouth lesions

Treatment

For thrush in infants, treatment is often NOT necessary. It generally resolves on its own within two weeks.

There are two goals when treating oral thrush in adults. The first is to improve your immune system's ability to function. For example, in diabetics, good control of diabetes may be enough to clear the infection without other treatment.

The second is to directly treat the infection. For this purpose, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal mouthwash or lozenges to suck on. These are usually used for 5-10 days. If they don't work, other medication may be prescribed.

If the infection has spread throughout your body or you have HIV/AIDS, stronger medications may be used, such as ketoconazole (Nizoral) or fluconazole (Diflucan).

Expectations (prognosis)

Thrush in infants may be painful, but is rarely serious. Because of discomfort, it can interfere with eating. If it does not resolve on its own within 2 weeks, call your pediatrician.

In adults, thrush that occurs in the mouth can be cured. However, the long-term outlook is dependent on your immune status and the cause of the immune deficit.

Complications

Candida can spread throughout your body, causing infection in your esophagus (esophagitis), brain (meningitis), heart (endocarditis), joints (arthritis), or eyes (endophthalmitis).

Calling your health care provider

Call your doctor if:

Your infant has had lesions in the mouth consistent with thrush for at least 2 weeks.
Your infant is eating poorly due to the lesions.
You are a teen or adult with lesions that are consistent with thrush.
You have pain or difficulty swallowing.
You have symptoms of thrush and you are HIV positive, receiving chemotherapy, or take medications to suppress your immune system.

Prevention

If you have frequent outbreaks of thrush, your doctor may recommend taking antifungal medication on a regular basis to avoid recurrent infections.

If an infant with thrush is breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about ways to prevent future infections, such as an antifungal medication. Sterilize or discard any pacifiers. For bottle-fed babies with thrush, discard the nipples and buy new ones as the baby's mouth begins to clear.

To prevent spread of HIV infection, follow safe sex practices and universal precautions when working with blood products.

References

Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 22 ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2004.

Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby; 2002.

Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Principles of Infectious Diseases. 5th ed. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.

Review Date: 7/25/2007

Reviewed By: Kenneth M. Wener, MD, Department of Infectious Diseases. Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_000626