Genital candidiasis pathophysiology

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Candida albicans and C. glabrata are the most common etioloogic agents. Less commonly, C.tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei may be responsible. Other Candida species may be rarely involved.

Pathophysiology

Most cases of Candida infection are caused by the person’s own Candida organisms. Candida yeasts usually live in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and vagina without causing symptoms . Symptoms develop only when Candida becomes overgrown in these sites. Rarely, Candida can be passed from person to person, such as through sexual intercourse. Most infections are endogenous in origin, but organisms can be transmitted on the hands of care givers.