Candida albicans (PCR) in urine

Candida albicans is a dimorphic fungus that can exist in both yeast and pseudohyphal forms. This allows it to adapt and survive in various environments. It is naturally found in moist areas of the human body such as the oral mucosa, intestines, vagina, and skin. It usually exists as a harmless commensal, but under certain conditions, it can become pathogenic. Typical symptoms of candidiasis in women include itching, vaginal pain, pain during intercourse, external dysuria, and abnormal vaginal discharge. In men, symptoms include redness and itching of the glans penis, white discharge under the foreskin, unpleasant odor, and pain during intercourse. If left untreated, inflammations recur, which may lead to secondary bacterial infections, cause urinary tract infections, and reproductive system complications.