Cutaneous candidiasis and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis

Cutaneous candidiasis is typically caused by Candida albicans, which exists as normal flora of human skin as well as in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. Overgrowth of Candida species is suppressed by normal bacterial flora. Other Candida species occasionally cause mucocutaneous infections, the second most common being Candida tropicalis. Under certain conditions, these Candida species overgrow and become pathogens. Warmth and moisture of the intertriginous skin (axilla, inguinal folds, abdominal creases, inframammary creases, finger or toe webs), an increased skin pH, and the administration of antibiotics can disrupt the normal bacterial flora, allowing Candida to proliferate. Clinically, candidiasis presents as scaly, erythematous patches with satellite papules and pustules. The diagnosis is made either microscopically, with a potassium hydroxide preparation revealing spores and pseudohyphae, or by culture.