Genital candidiasis

Abstract

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (vaginal thrush) remains an extremely common clinical problem, with both overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis and unreliable self-diagnosis. Occurring worldwide and affecting all strata of society, this inflammatory condition usually presents with vulvovaginal pruritus and irritation with a variable discharge. Little progress has been made in providing diagnostic tests, and consequently inappropriate antifungal therapy is common. New genetic susceptibility mechanisms are emerging. A variety of highly effective topical and oral systemic antimycotics agents are available. No new antifungal drug regimens have recently appeared; accordingly, therapeutic recommendations are unchanged. Antifungal drug resistance fortunately remains rare. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.