An infection caused by the yeast Candida albicans, which thrives in warm, moist areas such as the groin, the axilla, and the submammary region. Diabetic and immunosuppressed patients, as well as those receiving systemic antibiotic therapy, are at increased risk. The organism may be carried asymptomatically in the bowel, mouth, and vagina, causing treated sites to become reinfected.
Candidal vulvovaginitis is manifested by pruritus vulvae, vulvar erythema and edema, and a creamy vaginal discharge. Patients with these signs should be tested for glycosuria because diabetes strongly predisposes patients to candidal infections.
Oral candidiasis (thrush) is characterized by creamy white plaques on the tongue or buccal mucosa, which can be easily scraped off.
Perleche (angular cheilitis) is a mixed bacterial and candidal infection of the corners of the mouth. The skin appears moist, cracked, and fissured. Predisposing factors include deep folds at the corners of the mouth, poorly fitting dentures, and retention of saliva and food particles in the affected areas.