ABSTRACT
Candida species The principal human pathogen is C.albicans, which is found as part of the normal human flora. Opportunistic infection is often related to antibiotic treatment, and is more common in diabetes, during pregnancy and in immunosuppressed patients. Infections range from common superficial mucosal infections (e.g. vaginal thrush) to less common, deeper invasive infections. Laboratory diagnosis is principally by microscopy and culture on selective agar. C.albicans is easily differentiated from other Candida species by the germ-tube test. Treatment is with topical, oral or intravenous antifungal drugs, including imidazoles, polyenes, flucytosine and caspofungin. Antifungal drugs may also be used as prophylaxis against Candida infection in certain immunosuppressed patients.
