Cutaneous Candidiasis
The Skin Infection

Cutaneous candidiasis much like paronychia, is a skin infection. Symptoms include red colored marks on the skin and inflammation. The best treatment for a fungal skin infection are products with powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Cutaneous candidiasis is a fungus infection of the epidermis skin. The majority of cases involving skin infections results from Candida albicans although Candida glabrata, another fungal species of the Candida genes, is gaining attention as being second in line.

Candida glabrata is a major contributor in the cause of death in immunocompormised people and usually does not effect individuals of good health. Candida can be either acute or severe in nature.

Cutaneous Candidiasis Causes

Different Forms of Candidiasis

Candida paronychia is an infection of the skin and fingernail bed. The condition can either be acute or chronic and is associated with swelling, redness, inflammation and pain around the infected area. Females are more likely than males to become infected with this condition. The fungus overgrowth is known to be caused by keeping hands in water for long periods of time. Also individuals with diabetes, weakened immune systems, and those who work at jobs where their hands require on going contact with moisture are more susceptible.

Candida onychomycosis is a yeast that effects the nail and is similar to paronychia but can be differentiated by looking at the various candidiasis symptoms such as nail deformity and inflammation around the skin. People with diabetes, because of blood circulation issues, often acquire infections in their toenails, so much caution and attention should be taken to ensure the fingernails and toenails are free from infection. Activities like pedicures and manicures should be avoided.

Mucocutaneous Candidiasis is a condition where the mucous membranes are effected. Vaginal candidiasis is a form of a chronic yeast infection with vaginal itching , oral candidiasis, candida esophagitis, and infections of the nails and skin are common. Mucocutaneous Candidiasis is more resistant to treatment and has the ability to reoccur if not treated properly.

Intertriginous candidiasis is another area of concern. A person usually finds they have intertriginous candidiasis because of another painful issue they are having in the surrounding area. In babies, diaper dermatitis can be found and is also seen on incontinent older individuals. The area may be red in color with a patchy appearance and satellite lesions. Other places they are found are the groin, corners of the mouth, spaces between the fingers and toes, and different body folds.

Candidiasis Treatment

In the book Infectious Diseases In Immunocompromised Hosts by Georgiev, medicines used for treatment of oral and esophageal candidiasis include topical nystatin and clotrimazole. Systemic medications include amphotericin B, fluconazole, ketoconazole, and itraconazole. For nail infections, topical antifungals such as amorolfine, tioconazole, cyclopiroxolamine, along with various other antifungals are used.

Some of these drugs for onychomycosis (nail infections) are reported as having dangerous side effects and can cause harm to a persons liver and kidneys. As an alternative, a more natural approach can be taken by soaking the feet in a solution of warm water and Epsom salt. Care should also be taken to ensure that fingernails and toe nails are kept clean and dry. Wear open toed shoes as much as possible and avoid sugar and simple carbohydrates when eating. A diet full of non-allergenic foods which could consist of green leafy vegetables and fruits should help round out a healthy lifestyle and rule out disease causing mechanisms.