Candida krusei vulvovaginal infections
TL;DR
Candida krusei is a rare type of yeast infection, presenting with familiar symptoms but notable for its resistance to common antifungal treatments. Unlike more common yeast infections, C. krusei is often resistant to fluconazole and miconazole, requiring alternative treatments such as boric acid or clotrimazole. This article explores the symptoms, reasons for its rarity, and effective treatment options for this challenging condition.
It’s possible to get vulvovaginitis from non-albicans species such as Candida krusei, which is a rare type of yeast infection. Most non-albicans yeast infections are caused by C. glabrata or C. tropicalis. The symptoms are much the same as other yeast infections.
C. krusei is so rare, questions have been raised about its capacity as a vaginal pathogen.
Vulvovaginal symptoms of C. krusei infection
- Itch
- Discharge
- Soreness
- Burning
- Redness
- Swelling
- Raw skin
- Likely exposure to antifungal drugs in the past
- Treatment resistant symptoms
Treatment for C. krusei
Treatment may be achieved with boric acid on its own, however the most effective antifungal is clotrimazole. C. krusei is resistant to fluconazole and miconazole.
Exposure to antifungal drugs in the past typically paves the way for C. krusei and other non-albicans fungal infections. Long treatments should be considered with effective drugs against this yeast when treating.
Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.
Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:
- International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
- International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
- National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
- New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
- Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)