Skin Fungal Infection/ Yeast Infection

Fungal disease is often caused by fungi that are common in the environment. Most fungi are not dangerous, but some types are harmful to health. Mild fungal skin disease can look like a rash and are very common. Some fungal diseases like fungal meningitis and bloodstream infections are less common than skin and lung infections but can be deadly.

Oral candidiasis

Oral candidiasis, also known as thrush, develops in the mouth or throat. It can be caused by yeast-like fungus, Candida albicans. The most common symptoms of oral thrush is white patches or plaques on the tongue and other oral mucous membranes. There is also genital candidiasis and bloodstream candidiasis.

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The presence of candidiasis depends on the immune status of the host and the oral mucosal environment. Oral candidiasis may be seen in persons who are otherwise healthy. The predisposing factors include:

• denture wearers
• cigarette smokers
• antibiotic therapy, corticosteroid use
• old age, infancy
• immunosuppression, diabetes, HIV disease
• radiation therapy and chemotherapy

Genital candidiasis

Genital candidiasis occurs when there is overgrowth of the normal yeast in the vagina. This is relatively common: nearly 75% of all adult women have had at least one yeast infection in their lifetime. Infected women usually experience genital itching, burning and sometimes a “cottage cheese-like” vaginal discharge. Men with genital candidiasis may experience an itchy rash on the penis.

Antifungal vaginal suppositories or creams are commonly used. The duration of the treatment course of creams and suppositories can range from one day to seven days. Mild or moderate infections can sometimes be treated with a single dose of oral antifungal medication. For women who experience recurrent yeast infections (more than three per year), some evidence suggests the oral or intravaginal probiotics may help to prevent frequent infections.

Fungal nail infection

Another type of infection is fungal nail infection (onychomycosis). This is the common infections of the fingernails or toenails that can caused the nail to become discolored, thick, and more likely to crack and break. This is more common in toenails than fingernails. It can be caused by many different types of fungi (yeast or molds) that live in the environment. Some people who have fungal toenail infections also have a fungal skin infection on the foot, especially between the toes (commonly known as “athlete’s foot).

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Small cracks in the nail or the surrounding skin can allow these germs to enter the nail and cause an infection. It can be difficult to treat and they typically don’t go away without antifungal treatment. The best treatment for a fungal nail infection is usually prescription antifungal pills taken by mouth. In severe cases, a doctor might remove the nail completely and it can take several months to a year for the infection to go away.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot can usually be treated over-the-counter topical antifungal products – terbinafine appears to be the most effective. Chronic athlete’s foot may require adjunctive therapy such as foot powder or talcum powder to prevent skin maceration.

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Conclusion

Fungal disease can affect anyone, but they pose a serious threat to people who have weakened immune system, such as those who have cancer or HIV/AIDS. Some fungal diseases may be more common than previously realized, and rare but newly emerging fungi are becoming increasingly problematic.