SKINIPEDIA - Skin Diseases & Conditions: Candida Albicans

Skin Diseases and Conditions: Diagnosis Candida Albicans

A medical history, physical exam, and laboratory tests, including blood tests, blood cultures, and wound cultures may be done. Tissue biopsy may be necessary to diagnose invasive systemic disease.

Treatment of Candida Albicans

Most candida infections can be treated at home with OTC or prescription medication. These include topical administration of antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole (Femizole-7, Gyne-Lotrimin), miconazole (Monistat-Derm, Monistat Vaginal), nystatin, tioconazole (Vagistat Vaginal), or oral administration of drugs such as fluconazole (Diflucan) and amphotericin B. Many women prefer a single, oral dose of fluconazole for vaginal candidiasis, rather than topical creams. More serious infections may need IV medications given at the hospital.

Although antifungal drugs usually clear up the trouble, the infection can recur, sometimes as a result of reinfection by a sexual partner. Hence, treatment of both partners is sometimes necessary.

If possible, use of antibiotics should be discontinued during a candida infection. For diaper rashes, use barrier creams and change the diapers frequently. People with a tendency to skin candidiasis should keep their skin dry.

Prevention of Candida Albicans

Keeping skin clean, dry, and free from abrasions or cuts can help prevent skin candida infections.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor About Candida Albicans

- What is the underlying condition that has caused candidiasis;
- What kind of treatment will you be recommending;
- What if the antibiotic cannot be discontinued;
- Will the candidiasis continue to get worse;
- Could this lead to a systemic infection;
- What is the treatment for a systemic infection;
- How long does it take for relief of symptoms;
- Can measures be taken at home to help relieve symptoms?

Skin Diseases and Conditions

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