Candidiasis (cutaneous candidiasis) is a yeast infection of the skin. Candida infections can also occur in the mouth (oral thrush) and in or around the nails (paronychia or onychomycosis).
This skin infection can cause an itchy, red rash. Thankfully, Goodskin Dermatology offers effective candidiasis treatment that can help patients find relief. Read on to learn more about Candida symptoms, causes, and treatment.
What Is Candidiasis?
Candidiasis is a fungal infection that occurs when there is an overgrowth of a yeast called Candida.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), everyone has Candida on their skin and in body parts, such as the mouth, throat, and vagina. This yeast only becomes a problem when it grows out of control.
This type of infection thrives in warm, damp environments. As a result, candidiasis skin infection most commonly appears in skin folds and the groin region.
Several types of candidiasis exist, and each one can cause different symptoms. Below are some common forms of the infection:
- A candidiasis skin infection can appear in skin folds (cutaneous).
- Candidiasis that appears in the mouth is called oral thrush.
- When candidiasis affects the nails, it is referred to as paronychia/onychomycosis.
Symptoms of Candidiasis
As mentioned above, the symptoms of candidiasis skin infection vary depending on where it’s located on the body.
With candidiasis skin infection, MedlinePlus (NIH) states that the following symptoms can appear:
- Intense itching
- Red, growing Candida skin rash
- Rash in skin folds, including the genitals, buttocks, under the breast, and stomach area
- Infected hair follicles that look like pimples
As for oral candidiasis, the Cleveland Clinic explains that it can cause raised, white sores in the mouth. These sores can also cause pain and irritation.
With nail candidiasis, pain and swelling can appear around the nail. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the nail might separate from the nail bed in severe cases.
Causes and Risk Factors
Candidiasis skin infection occurs when naturally occurring Candida on the skin overgrows. This out-of-control growth of the fungus can then cause a rash and other symptoms.
The CDC highlights several factors that can increase the risk of developing a candidiasis skin infection. These include:
- Being immunocompromised due to medications or a condition like cancer or HIV/AIDS
- Having diabetes or obesity
- Experiencing hormonal changes due to pregnancy or menopause
- Taking medications, such as antibiotics, oral birth control, or steroids
- Wearing dentures
- Using a catheter
This type of skin infection is also more likely to appear in both babies and the elderly, as well as people in hospitals.
How Is Candidiasis Diagnosed?
If you want relief from candidiasis skin infection, getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step. A dermatology specialist will need to confirm that you have candidiasis and not one of these similar conditions:
- Tinea (ringworm and athlete’s foot) is a different fungal infection that can affect the skin, hair, and nails.
- Tinea versicolor is a different form of yeast overgrowth.
- Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin condition caused by friction, heat, and moisture.
To confirm candidiasis skin infection diagnosis, your dermatologist will:
- Perform a visual inspection of your skin.
- Gently scrape off a skin sample for testing in some cases.
Treatment Options at Goodskin Dermatology
Goodskin Dermatology can treat candidiasis infections of the skin, mouth, and nails. The recommended treatment typically involves topical and/or oral antifungal medications.
According to the CDC, “the type, dose, and length of antifungal treatment depend on the type and severity of infection and underlying health conditions.” As a result, the following treatment options are available for patients with candidiasis skin infection:
- Topical antifungals, including creams, lozenges, or oral rinses
- Antifungal pills
- Intravenous (IV) medications in some cases
Typically, topical antifungal medications can treat mild to moderate candidiasis skin rashes. Oral antifungals can help when the mouth or nails are involved. Lozenges and oral rinses can also be effective treatments for oral thrush.
To prevent candidiasis infection in the first place, the Cleveland Clinic recommends:
- Keeping your skin clean and dry, especially in skin folds
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Keeping stress under control
- Eating fewer refined carbohydrates and sugar
- Managing medical conditions that can lead to Candida overgrowth
- Asking your doctor if any of your medications put you at risk for this infection
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a candidiasis rash look like?
A candidiasis skin rash often looks like a discolored, itchy rash in the folds of the skin.
Is candidiasis contagious?
Because candidiasis naturally lives on our skin, most forms of Candida are not highly contagious. However, at-risk people, such as those who are immunocompromised, can sometimes catch this infection.
How long does a candida skin infection take to clear up?
Most mild to moderate cases of candidiasis skin infection will improve within two to three days after finishing treatment.
Can candidiasis come back after treatment?
Yes, candidiasis infection can come back after treatment, especially if a patient didn’t complete the entire course of medication. Underlying health conditions and certain prescriptions can also make it more likely that the infection will return in some individuals.
See a Dermatologist at Goodskin Dermatology
Candidiasis skin infection can be uncomfortable, but it is treatable when you visit one of the dermatologists at Goodskin Dermatology. Our Medical Dermatology specialists can accurately diagnose and effectively treat this infection using antifungal medications. We also provide full-body skin evaluations.
We invite you to schedule an appointment today at one of our convenient Portland-area locations, including Clackamas, Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Troutdale. The relief you need and the care you deserve are just one appointment away.
