Intestinal Candidiasis
Intestinal Candidiasis (IC) refers to an overgrowth of the Candida yeast genus in the small and large intestines. Its presence in the gut is normal, but it can be overabundant in certain populations like premature infants and the immunocompromised. Probiotics and antifungal drugs may prevent IC.
Last Updated:October 13, 2024
Intestinal candidiasis is a fungal infection marked by an overgrowth of Candida, a yeast that normally resides in the body. It is detected in rectal swabs or in fecal or intestinal mucosa samples.
Intestinal candidiasis is usually asymptomatic, and past claims that associated Candida overgrowth with various ailments have been largely debunked. It may contribute to antibiotic-associated diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, but more research is needed.
Intestinal candidiasis is diagnosed by assessing Candida colonization using rectal swabs or fecal, mucosal, or duodenal samples; clinical scoring systems are used to evaluate the risk of systemic fungal infection based on colonization levels and other factors.
Intestinal candidiasis typically does not require treatment in people without other health conditions. However, in premature babies and critically ill individuals, antifungal drugs may be used to reduce intestinal Candida colonization and lower the risk of systemic fungal infections.
Probiotics may help reduce Candida colonization in vulnerable populations, and vitamin D supplementation shows potential in lowering Candida prevalence and systemic infection. Additionally, medium-chain triglycerides and certain plant extracts have shown promise in laboratory settings, but their effects in the human gastrointestinal tract remain unstudied.
Diet does not significantly influence the risk or severity of intestinal candidiasis. Although high-carbohydrate diets may temporarily raise Candida levels, low-carbohydrate and low-yeast diets have no meaningful effect on intestinal candidiasis.
Research on alternative treatments for intestinal candidiasis is scant.
The risk of intestinal candidiasis is higher in preterm infants, critically ill or immunocompromised individuals, people with diabetes, and in people who are taking certain medications, like antibiotics, antifungals, and steroids. Additionally, oral candidiasis can increase intestinal Candida counts.
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