Invasive candidiasis is a serious infection that occurs when the fungus Candida enters the body and manages to spread throughout the body via the bloodstream. It can result in severe symptoms and even death. It often affects bones, the nervous system, kidneys, the spleen, and liver.
Candida is a common cause of yeast infection, a generally non-harmful, non-invasive form of Candida infection. Invasive candidiasis occurs when the fungus goes untreated and is allowed to spread.
Common symptoms of invasive candidiasis include:
Invasive candidiasis can be hard to detect in some cases because it often occurs in people who are already experiencing some form of illness. The signs are also similar to other types of infection. You may experience location-specific symptoms, too. For example, the eyes may be sensitive to light and vision may be blurry. If it spreads to your brain, headaches, memory loss, and confusion may occur.
Invasive candidiasis is often fatal if treatment is not received, so its’ vital to seek medical help if you’re feeling any of the symptoms above — or if you just feel off.
Invasive candidiasis is caused by the spread of the Candida fungus through the bloodstream. This kind of invasive infection usually occurs when medical devices are in use in hospital settings. For example, having an IV put in for a long period of time or a catheter to drain urine.
Risk factors include having had surgery recently, staying in the hospital for long periods of time, premature babies, having a catheter inserted for a long amount of time, long term use of illegal drugs, and having a weak immune system.
Vaginal Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)
Antifungal Resistance to Candidiasis
If your healthcare provider suspects you have invasive candidiasis, they will ask for recent symptoms and a medical history. A blood test can confirm the presence of the fungus.
Complications of invasive candidiasis include death, loss of function in one or multiple organs, and chronic inflammation of the organs.
Invasive candidiasis is treated with an antifungal injection administered in a hospital. The specific type of medication you are given will depend on your age, how bad the infection is, where it has spread to, and if your immune system is compromised or not.
Treatment will continue until you are negative for Candida and feel better.
Patients at high risk for developing invasive candidiasis may be placed on antifungals as a proactive measure by their doctor. You can also reduce your risk by following good handwashing techniques, looking for any sign of infection like redness or swelling, and ensuring that those around you practise good handwashing hygiene, too.