Vaginal candidiasis [Vaginale Candidose]

Colonization of the vagina with Candida spp. does not necessarily induce an inflammatory response. The most frequent pathogens are Candida albicans followed by C. glabrata. Pathogenesis is dependant on the virulence of the yeast, individual predisposition as well as on the host's defense system. Women aged from 15 to 45 years - especially when pregnant or under hormonal contraception - are particularly susceptible to vaginal mycosis. Indeed, yeasts possess estrogen receptors, making them more virulent when estrogen is present. Local innate immunity is crucial for infection, while humoral immunity is of minor importance. Cellular immunity, however, is essential, although the cooperation between the different components is not well understood. Therapy consists either of the local application of diverse antiseptics or of antimycotics, or in the use of systemically active antimycotics such as fluconazole. In case of recurrent infections, a secondary prophylaxis with fluconazole is recommended. © Springer Medizin Verlag 2006.