Candida spp. (PCR) detection in urine

Candida spp. is a group of fungi that naturally exists in the human body's microflora, most commonly in the mouth, intestines, vagina, and skin. Typically, they do not cause problems, but under certain conditions (e.g., immunodeficiency, antibiotic use), they can lead to infections (candidiasis). 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 at the tip of the penis, white discharge under the foreskin, bad odor, and pain during intercourse. If left untreated, inflammations recur, potentially leading to secondary bacterial infections, urinary tract infections, and reproductive system complications.