Candidiasis: Patient Information and Testing Services

Types of Candidiasis

1. Vaginal Candidiasis (Yeast Infection):

   • The most common type, affecting the vaginal area in women.

2. Oral Candidiasis (Thrush):

   • Infection in the mouth or throat, characterized by white patches.

3. Cutaneous Candidiasis:

   • Affects the skin, particularly in folds like under the breasts or armpits.

4. Invasive Candidiasis:

   • A severe infection where Candida enters the bloodstream or internal organs, often seen in hospitalized patients.

How is Candidiasis Transmitted?

Candidiasis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI). However, it can be passed through:

• Prolonged skin-to-skin contact in warm, moist conditions.
• Sharing contaminated objects like pacifiers, dentures, or towels (oral and cutaneous candidiasis).
• Sexual activity in cases of vaginal candidiasis, though it is rare.

Common Symptoms of Candidiasis

Vaginal Candidiasis

• Thick, white discharge resembling cottage cheese.
• Intense itching or burning in the vaginal area.
• Redness and swelling around the vulva.
• Pain during sex or urination.

Oral Candidiasis

• White, creamy patches in the mouth or throat.
• Painful or cracked corners of the mouth.
• Difficulty swallowing.

Cutaneous Candidiasis

• Red, itchy, and inflamed skin.
• Cracked or sore skin in moist areas.

Invasive Candidiasis

• Fever and chills that don’t improve with antibiotics.
• Signs of organ dysfunction, requiring urgent medical attention.

When Should You Test for Candidiasis?

Testing is recommended if you:

• Experience persistent symptoms despite over-the-counter treatments.
• Have recurring infections (more than four episodes in a year).
• Are pregnant or immunocompromised, as candidiasis can lead to complications.
• Suspect invasive candidiasis due to fever and other systemic symptoms.

How Common is Candidiasis in Singapore?

Candidiasis is a widespread condition globally and in Singapore. Vaginal candidiasis affects up to 75% of women at least once in their lifetime. Recurring infections are also common, especially in tropical climates like Singapore, where heat and humidity can create ideal conditions for fungal growth.

Candidiasis Testing Services at Wonderhealth Screeners

At Wonderhealth Screeners, we provide comprehensive testing to identify and treat candidiasis accurately:

1. Vaginal Swab Test:

   • Detects Candida overgrowth in vaginal infections.

2. Oral Swab Test:

   • Identifies fungal infections in the mouth or throat.

3. Blood Tests:

   • Essential for diagnosing invasive candidiasis.

4. Rapid Diagnosis:

   • Same-day results for faster treatment initiation.

5. 24/7 Availability:

   • Convenient scheduling and guidance from our hotline anytime.

Treatment for Candidiasis

Candidiasis is treated based on its type and severity:

• Topical Antifungals: Creams or ointments for vaginal or cutaneous candidiasis.
• Oral Antifungals: Pills like fluconazole for severe or recurrent infections.
• Intravenous Antifungals: For invasive candidiasis in hospitalized patients.

Follow-up care may be needed to prevent recurrence, especially for chronic infections.

Why Choose Wonderhealth Screeners?

• Expertise in Fungal Infections: Trusted by Singaporeans for accurate and discreet diagnosis.
• 24/7 Access: Testing and treatment at your convenience.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped to handle even complex cases like invasive candidiasis.
• Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to personalized treatment plans.