Systemic candidiasis

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Disease Overview

Systemic candidiasis includes a spectrum of yeast infections caused by different species (types) of Candida.[12781] It is a serious infection that can affect the blood, heart, brain, eyes, bones, or other parts of the body.[8600] Although there are over 200 species of Candida, five different species of Candida cause 90% of systemic candidiasis.[12781][8600][8599] The most common form of this invasive yeast infection is when Candida enters the bloodstream (candidemia). Signs of candidemia include fever and chills that do not improve with antibiotics. Symptoms of other types of systemic candidiasis depend on the organ or system which is infected. Systemic candidiasis is the most common fungal infection among hospitalized people in high-income countries, including the United States. Diagnosis can be difficult, especially when the Candida is not found in the bloodstream.[12781][8600] Treatment usually includes consists of oral or intravenous (IV) antifungal medications.[12781][8600][8599] 


Synonyms

  • Systemic candida infections
  • Invasive Candidiasis

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National Organization for Rare Disorders