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Candida albicans is a microscopic yeast which can cause oral, skin and genital infections in humans. The infection is candidiasis, better known as "thrush". It is treated with antimycotics (anti-fungal drugs). The cell wall of this yeast is made of glucan, chitin, and protein. The purpose of the cell wall is to protect the cell from dehydration. The cell wall also protects the cells from the immune system.
C. albicans can change from one form to another.
C. albicans creates biofilms that can form on the surface of medical devices. Hospital-related infections in patients are a major health concern.
Candida albicans can be found in the throat (oropharyngeal cavity) gut (gastrointestinal tract), vaginal tract, and healthy skin. Under normal circumstances, it lives in 80% of the human population with no harmful effects. Overgrowth results in candidiasis. This yeast can cause a vaginal yeast infection.
