Opportunistic yeasts

Candida albicans
This is a common yeast found in many areas of the body including skin, vagina, gut and the mouth. Generally, the body and other beneficial microbes keep it at bay, but it can cause thrush like symptoms if allowed to proliferate in the vagina and vulva.

Candida dubliniensis
Candida dubliniensis is closely related to candida albicans, but is less commonly found. It’s an opportunistic yeast, and has been found in HIV patients and in the oral cavity. It has been found to cause vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) but rarely.

Candida parapsilosis
Candida parapsilosis is a fungus that lives on our bodies. It can colonise the vagina and lower 
genital tract. At low levels it won’t cause any symptoms, but if the person is compromised, it can proliferate and cause thrush like symptoms. If it gets into the bloodstream it can be dangerous.

Candida tropicalis
Candida tropicalis is the second most invasive form of candida. It can be found across the body, and its levels are managed by the immune system and beneficial microbes. However, it can cause infection if the subject is compromised and its able to proliferate. Treatment is required for thrush like symptoms caused by this yeast.

Nakaseomyces glabratus
Nakaseomyces glabratus is a type of yeast previously known as candida glabrata. It is a common yeast species to be found, at managed levels, especially on the skin. N.glabratus is a common cause of vaginal thrush and requires treatment to prevent more serious infections.

Pichia kudriavzevii
Pichia kudriavzevii, also known as candida krusei, is a yeast that can cause vaginal infections if allowed to proliferate. It requires treatment, and can be dangerous in immunocompromised people. Treatment needs to be considered, due to high levels of resistance with this yeast.

To go back to the Opportunistic Yeasts on a Species Level click here.