Candida albicans

Definition

Candida albicans is a dimorphic fungus that can exist in both yeast and hyphal forms. It is a common opportunistic pathogen in humans, causing infections primarily when the immune system is compromised.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Candida albicans is part of the normal microbiota of the human mouth, throat, gut, and vagina.
2. It can cause infections such as oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections, and systemic candidiasis.
3. The switch from yeast to hyphal form is critical for its pathogenicity and allows tissue invasion.
4. Candida albicans can form biofilms on medical devices like catheters, contributing to its virulence.
5. Antifungal resistance in Candida albicans poses a significant challenge in clinical treatments.

Review Questions

• What are the primary body sites where Candida albicans is found as part of the normal microbiota?
• How does Candida albicans' ability to switch from yeast to hyphal forms affect its pathogenicity?
• Why are biofilms formed by Candida albicans on medical devices particularly concerning?

Related terms

Dimorphic Fungi: Fungi that can exist in two different morphological forms.

Opportunistic Pathogen: A microorganism that causes disease primarily when the host's immune defenses are compromised.

Biofilm:

A structured community of microorganisms encapsulated within a self-produced matrix, adherent to an inert or living surface.