Thrush and Other Yeast Infections in Children
Medical Author: David Perlstein, MD, FAAP
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
What are yeast infections?
What are commonly known as "yeast" infections are caused by
various species of a yeast-like fungus called Candida, particularly
the species Candida albicans. Yeast organisms are part of the germs
(including bacteria) that are normally found on various parts of the
body and which ordinarily cause no symptoms.
Why do yeast sometimes cause symptoms?
Certain conditions, such as antibiotic use, may upset the balance
of microbes in the body and allow an overgrowth of Candida. Yeast
also can thrive in chronically moist folds of skin, such as in the
groin.
Yeast infections may flare up and then heal in most people; however,
in newborns or individuals with impaired immune systems, yeast can
cause more serious or chronic infections.
How do babies get yeast infections?
Many infants acquire Candida infections from their mothers during
the process of birth. Yeast exists naturally in the mother's vagina.
When the child is delivered through the birth canal, the baby comes
in contact with the yeast.
Many babies that escape this infection at birth soon acquire
Candida from close contacts with other family members.
What is oral thrush? What are symptoms of oral thrush?
Thrush is yeast infection of the mouth and throat. Thrush can also be associated with yeast infection of the esophagus. Thrush appears as creamy white, curd-like patches on the tongue and inside of the mouth and back of the throat. As mentioned above, in individuals with impaired immune systems, yeast infections are more common. For example, in a non-infant population, thrush may be a sign of underlying HIV infection.
Next: How do children (and adults) acquire thrush? »
- ketoconazole, Nizoral, Extina, Xolegel, Kuric - Learn about ketoconazole (Nizoral, Extina, Xolegel, Kuric), a drug used to treat a variety of fungal infections such as dandruff, jock itch, athlete's foot, and ringworm.
- Thrush - Read about thrush, a candida mouth infection that occurs most often in babies, children and those with HIV or cancer. Learn symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
- clotrimazole, Lotrimin, Mycelex - Read about clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex) medication prescribed for vaginal yeast infections, thrush, jock itch, athlete's foot, and tinea versicolor. Side effects, drug interaction, and dosage information is included.
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Thrush and Other Yeast Infections in Children
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