Disease Carriers

Fungi: Candida species

Yeast are common microorganisms found virtually everywhere. Members of the genus Candida are found in all areas of the intestinal tract, usually causing no medical problems. However, in patients with a compromised immune system, life threatening diseases may result.

In the past two decades Candida species have become the fifth most common cause of hospital-acquired bloodstream infections. Advances in immunosuppression for organ transplants and cancer therapy has increased the susceptible population as has the advent of such diseases as AIDS which specifically target the immune system. Not only do these infections result in increased hospital stays, but they have become a significant cause of mortality in immunocompromised patients.

Scanning electron micrograph of the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans.