Candida species (pathogenic yeast)

Pathogenic yeast in the urogenital tract refers primarily to infection by Candida species, a genus of opportunistic fungi that are part of the normal human microbiota but can cause disease (candidiasis) when host defenses are compromised. The most common species, Candida albicans, along with others such as C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei, can cause vaginitis, balanitis, and, more rarely, urinary tract infections. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, microscopy, and laboratory identification of Candida. Treatments include topical or systemic antifungal agents. Drug resistance, recurrence, and complications may occur, particularly in at-risk populations such as diabetics, pregnant women, and immunocompromised patients.

Other names

Pathogenic yeast (Candida)Urogenital CandidaUrogenital yeastVaginal yeastGenital CandidaPathogenic fungi (urogenital)

Inhibition of fungal cell membrane synthesis (azole and polyene classes); Inhibition of β-(1,3)-D-glucan synthesis in fungal cell wall (echinocandins)