Candida albicans (PGR)

Candida albicans is a dimorphic fungus capable of existing 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 generally 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, redness and itching on the glans penis, white discharge under the foreskin, foul odor, and pain during intercourse occur. If left untreated, inflammation recurs, may promote secondary bacterial infections, cause urinary tract infections, and reproductive system complications.