Safa DÖNMEZ
University of Health Sciences Faculty of Medicine, Ankara City Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Ankara, Türkiye

Dönmez S. Candidiasis. In: Oğuztürk H, Görmeli Kurt N, eds. Dermatologic Emergencies. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.91-5.

ABSTRACT Candidiasis is a prevalent fungal infection commonly associated with C. albicans. While candida species are normally part of the human body’s natural flora, they can cause infections in individuals with weakened immune systems. In the United States, candida species are among the leading causes of hospital-acquired infections, with C. albicans being the most frequently encountered species. Other significant species include C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, and C. auris. Candidiasis can present in a wide spectrum, ranging from superficial mucocutaneous infections to severe invasive disease associated with candidemia. Clinically, it manifests in various forms including oral candidiasis, gastrointestinal candidiasis, dermatological infections, vaginal and penile candidiasis, and invasive candidiasis. Oral candidiasis is typically characterized by white plaques, whereas gastrointestinal candidiasis often presents with odynophagia and dysphagia. Dermatological infections are commonly marked by erythema and white plaques. Diagnosis is generally established through microscopy and culture methods, with advanced techniques such as blood cultures and PCR employed for systemic candidiasis. Treatment depends on the severity and type of infection and is managed with antifungal agents. Mild cases are often controlled with topical treatments, while systemic infections require intravenous antifungal therapy. Complications such as prosthetic stomatitis and angular cheilitis necessitate appropriate treatment and hygiene measures.

Keywords: Candida albicans; candidiasis; oral candidiasis; invasive candidiasis; antifungal agents