Fungal Infections 2024 PDF

Fungal Infections Dr. Basma Samir (MD) 2 Diseases caused by Fungi 3  Normally, the immune system works to repel harmful invading organisms, such as viruses, bacteria and fungi, while maintaining a balance between "good" and "bad" microbes that normally inhabit the...

Fungal Infections Dr. Basma Samir (MD) 2 Diseases caused by Fungi 3  Normally, the immune system works to repel harmful invading organisms, such as viruses, bacteria and fungi, while maintaining a balance between "good" and "bad" microbes that normally inhabit the body. But sometimes these protective mechanisms fail, increasing the opportunities for microbes to turn into pathogenic. 4 Oral Thrush (Candidiasis) 5  The most common type of candida fungus is Candida albicans. Also called oral candidiasis, is a condition in which the fungus Candida albicans accumulates on the lining of mouth. Candida is a normal organism in mouth, but sometimes it can overgrow and cause symptoms. 6  Although oral thrush can affect anyone, it is more likely to occur in: babies and older adults because they have reduced immunity; in other people with suppressed immune systems or certain health conditions; or people who take certain medications. Oral thrush is a minor problem in healthy people, but in those who have a weakened immune system, symptoms may be more severe and difficult to control. 7 Symptoms Creamy white lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks, and sometimes on the roof of mouth, gums and tonsils Slightly raised lesions with a cottage cheese-like appearance Redness, burning or soreness that may be severe enough to cause difficulty eating or swallowing Slight bleeding if the lesions are rubbed or scraped A cottony feeling in mouth Loss of taste Redness, irritation and pain under dentures (denture stomatitis) 8  In severe cases, usually related to cancer or a weakened immune system from HIV/AIDS, the lesions may spread downward into the esophagus (Candida esophagitis). If this occurs, patient may experience difficulty and pain in swallowing or feel as if food is getting stuck in throat. 9 Infants and breast-feeding mothers In addition to the distinctive white mouth lesions, infants may have trouble feeding. They can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding. The infection may then pass back and forth between the mother and baby. 10 Risk factors Weakened immunity. Oral thrush is more likely to occur in infants and older adults due to reduced immunity. Some medical conditions and treatments can suppress the immune system, such as cancer and its treatments, organ transplantation and required drugs that suppress the immune system, and HIV/AIDS. Diabetes. untreated diabetes or the disease isn't well-controlled, saliva may contain large amounts of sugar, which encourages the growth of candida. 11  Medications. Drugs such as prednisone, inhaled corticosteroids, or antibiotics that disturb the natural balance of microorganisms. Other oral conditions. Wearing dentures, especially upper dentures, or having conditions that cause dry mouth. 12 Prevention Rinse your mouth. Rinsing the mouth with water and brushing teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Check dentures. Remove dentures at night. Make sure dentures fit properly and don't cause irritation. Clean dentures daily. See dentist regularly, especially diabetics. Try limiting the amount of sugar-containing foods. These may encourage the growth of candida. 13  Maintain good blood sugar control in diabetics. Well-controlled blood sugar can reduce the amount of sugar in your saliva, discouraging the growth of candida. Treat dry mouth. 14  Athlete’s foot Tinea pedis or Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the foot. Athlete’s foot is commonly associated with sports and athletes because the fungus grows perfectly in warm, moist environments, such as socks and shoes, sports equipment, and locker rooms. In reality, anyone may be affected by athlete’s foot. It is most common in warmer climates and summer months, where it can quickly multiply. 15 Athlete’s foot Diagnosis Doctors diagnose the infection by scraping scaling skin off and inspecting it under a microscope for evidence of any fungus. Treatment Athlete’s foot is often treated with topical antifungal ointments and or additional oral medications as well. Care & Prevention Keep the feet clean and dry to help kill the fungus. Allowing the feet plenty of air to breathe. It is a good idea to wear sandals in public showers or locker rooms. 16 Yeast infection Vaginal yeast infections are a common form of Candida overgrowth in women, usually caused by Candida albicans. An overgrowth of Candida disrupts the normal balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. This imbalance may be due to antibiotics, stress, hormone imbalances, or poor eating habits. Candida infections can also commonly cause fungal toenail infections and diaper rash. 17 Symptoms of a yeast infection include: itching and swelling burning sensations or pain redness and soreness unusual discharge; “grey clumps that resemble cottage cheese or a very watery discharge” A rash may develop over time in some cases. Yeast infections should be treated quickly, as the symptoms may become severe if left untreated. 18 Diagnosis The classic symptoms of yeast infection make them easy to diagnose. Doctors may ask about medical history (uncontrolled Diabetes…), a balanced diet, any previous yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and history of antibiotics. Treatment Treatment of yeast infections depends on their severity. Standard treatments include creams, tablets, or suppositories. Complicated infections may require complex treatments. Prevention Avoiding yeast infections begins with a balanced diet and proper hygiene. 19 Jock itch Tinea cruris, commonly known as jock itch, is another common fungal skin infection. These fungi prefer warm and damp environments and thrive in moist areas of the body, such as the groin, buttocks, and inner thighs. Jock itch may be more common in summer or in warm, humid areas of the world. It is mildly contagious and is often spread through direct contact with an infected person or an object that is carrying the fungus. 20  Jock itch appears on the body as an itchy, red rash that often has a circular shape. Symptoms include: Redness in affected areas irritation, itching, or burning sensation in the infected area a red rash with a circular shape and raised edges cracking, or dry peeling of the skin in the infected area 21 Diagnosis Jock itch has a very particular look and can usually be identified based on its appearance. If doctors are uncertain, they may take a skin sample to inspect and confirm their diagnosis. Treatment Topical antifungal ointments and proper hygiene. Cleaning the affected area and keeping it dry can help kill the fungus. Prevention Avoiding contact with others who have the infection. Avoiding shared items, such as towels and sporting equipment may also help. 22 Discussed Items Diseases caused by Fungi (Causative agent, Risk factors, Diagnosis, Prevention) Oral Thrush Athelete’s foot Yeast infection Jock itch 23 24