Candida overgrowth can be caused by any yeast in the Candida genus, although it's almost always caused by Candida albicans. This species of yeast commonly inhabits human skin but usually doesn't cause any symptoms. Under favorable conditions, however, a Candida colony can become much denser and turn into a health problem.
Causes
Candida usually competes with bacteria for resources on the skin and mucous membranes. Antibiotics can kill the competing bacteria, which allow a Candida colony to experience overgrowth. Babies also get Candida from the mother's vagina when they're born. This is usually not a problem unless the overgrowth persists for several weeks or more.
Thrush
An overgrowth of Candida can occur in a child's mouth, known as thrush. This is most common in children who are taking antibiotics or have a compromised immune system. Thrush can produce white, curd-like plaques on the tongue, throat and inside of the mouth. These plaques typically lie on top of a red base that may bleed when the plaque is removed.
Rash
Candida can grow rapidly on moist skin and produce a bright, red rash with a clearly defined border. This most often occurs as a diaper rash, but it can also happen around the fingernails when children suck their thumbs or fingers.
Vaginal Infections
Vaginal infections in girls are commonly caused by Candida and are especially likely when antibiotics reduce the population of Lactobacilli bacteria that usually inhabit the vagina. Overgrowth of Candida in the vagina can cause a thick, white discharge accompanied by burning and itching.
Invasive Candida
Candida infections (candidiasis) can also invade the body, especially in people with a compromised immune system. Diabetics or other patients with a low resistance to infection may experience Candida overgrowth, which can cause a variety of systems, depending on the specific organ that's affected. Common effects of systemic candidiasis include arthritis, infection of the spinal cord (meningitis), infection of the heart (endocarditis), urinary tract infections and kidney infections.
