Dillon Francis Oberholzer




is a fungal infection due to any type of Candida (a type of yeast).[2]When it affects the mouth, it is commonly called thrush.[2] Signs and symptoms include white patches on the tongue or other areas of the mouth and throat.[3]Other symptoms may include soreness and problems swallowing.[3] When it affects the vagina, it is commonly called a yeast infection.[2] Signs and symptoms include genital itching, burning, and sometimes a white "cottage cheese-like" discharge from the vagina.[8] Less commonly the penis may be affected, resulting in itchiness.[3] Very rarely, the infection may become invasive, spreading to other parts of the body.[9] This may result in fevers along with other symptoms depending on the parts involved.[9]

More than 20 types of Candida can cause infection with Candida albicans being the most common.[2] Infections of the mouth are most common among children less than one month old, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems.[4]Conditions that result in a weak immune system include HIV/AIDS, the medications used after organ transplantationdiabetes, and the use of corticosteroids.[4] Other risks include dentures and following antibiotic therapy.[4]Vaginal infections occur more commonly during pregnancy, in those with weak immune systems, and following antibiotic use.[10] Risk factors for invasive candidiasis include being in an intensive care unit, following surgery, low birth weight infants, and those with weak immune systems.[11]




"Yeast infection" redirects here. For yeast infections affecting the vagina, see vaginal yeast infection.


SynonymsCandidosis, moniliasis, oidiomycosis[1]


Oral candidiasis (thrush)

SpecialtyInfectious disease


CausesCandida (a type of yeast)[2]

Risk factorsImmunosuppression (HIV/AIDS), diabetescorticosteroidsantibiotictherapy[4]



Dillon Francis Oberholzer