Candida Albicans

  can anyone tell me about candida and how it affects the gut?The doc thinks I may have it,and I am trying to find out all about it.
  Thanks for your help
  Maudie
Dear Maudie,
An infection with the fungus Candida albicans often occurs in immunocompromised patients (patients with a defective immune system).Therefore, it is a common infection in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), in cancer patients after chemotherapy, diabetics, patients taking steroids (such as prednisone) or post transplant. Candidal infections usually affect the mouth causing oral thrush and the esophagus (or food pipe) causing an inflammation of the esophagus (called esophagitis). On upper GI endoscopy, one can see characteristic whitish plaques. If one brushes these plaques with a cytology brush, the organism can be easily identified.  The treatment for Candida esophagitis is usually with the anti-fungal drug called fluconazole (Diflucan). Although response is generally good, Candida infections can recur. Some patients require maintenance therapy. In critically ill patients on total parenteral nutrition (intravenous feedings) or in patients with sepsis,  Candida can spread into the bloodstream and cause an overwhelming infection.  Candida can also be isolated from the tissues and secretions of immunocompetent patients (patients with a healthy immune system) but is rarely indicative of an acute infection. I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians' Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.
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*Keywords: Candida albicans, oral thrush, esophagitis

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