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| Question | Answer |
| What is Candida Albicans? | A fungus that is naturally found on the body but can overgrow in situations that favour its growth such as the use of antibiotics or a high sugar diet |
| What is the incidence rate in Aus | Approx 2 people per 100,000 a year are affected (probably under-reported) |
| Reservoir | The fungi is present around the human body - everyone is susceptible to infection |
| Pathogenesis | Growth is normally limited by the human immune system and by competition of other microorganisms, such as bacteria occupying the same locations in the human body. Requires moisture to grow to infectious levels. Diets high in carbohydrates may lead to ideal growth situations for the fungus. Treatment with antibiotics can lead to eliminating the yeast's natural competitors for resources in the oral and intestinal flora - leading to overgrowth. Most candidal infections result in minimal complications such as redness, itching, and discomfort. Fungus grows and forms a cottage-cheese like coating on the tongue or other affected mucous membrane. |
| Breaking the cycle | Avoiding a diet high in sugars Avoiding overuse of antibiotics Practicing oral hygiene Skin - keeping skin dry Treatment of affected individuals Use of barrier contraception during infection to prevent transmission of genital thrush |
| Drug therapy | First-line is anti-fungal fluconazole - topical and oral/vaginal preparations are available. |
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