Fungal flora. Diagnosis of candidiasis - what tests need to be taken. What is a fungal infection

Acting as a barrier at the border with the environment, the mucous membrane of the throat, like other ENT organs, is at risk of infection. Frequent infectious agents that disrupt the physiological functions of the mucous membrane in this area include not only viruses and bacteria, but also fungi.

Fungal diseases of the throat, or more precisely, the pharynx, are called pharyngomycosis and arise due to the activity of both pathogenic fungi and those living normally in the human body.

Reasons

The most common representatives of the fungal flora that provoke pharyngomycosis include:

A fungus of the genus Candida is the causative agent of candidiasis. Its variety Candida albicans is the most common opportunistic agent in the human body (the cause of mycosis in 90% of cases). Less commonly, fungal throat infections are caused by Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata (specific to the elderly), Candida parapsilosis (more often affects children).
The causative agent of leptotrichosis– a saprophytic fungus, which under normal conditions inhabits the soil, in case of immunodeficiency is capable of penetrating the human body, causing infectious process.
Fungus from the genus Actinomyces– normally colonizes human mucous membranes in small quantities; when immunity decreases, it is prone to active growth.

Yeast fungi of the genus Candida most often cause fungal infections of the throat mucosa

As noted, the development of mycosis occurs due to an imbalance in the microflora inhabiting the mucous membranes. The following factors can contribute to the increased proliferation of pathogenic (and in some cases opportunistic) fungal infections in the throat:

Immunodeficiency conditions are the most common reason, triggering the pathomechanism of pharyngomycosis. Holes in the immune system can occur due to congenital pathology, severe diseases (HIV, hepatitis), uncontrolled use of antibacterial, cytostatic drugs, and glucocorticosteroids. Abuse of antiseptics (sprays, tablets, lozenges) can lead to a local decrease in the protective function of the mucous membranes.
Hormonal imbalance (more often in women during menopause), accompanied by dry skin and mucous membranes, which become especially susceptible to fungal infection.
Endocrine disorders, primarily glucose intolerance and diabetes mellitus. The observed increase in blood glucose levels creates a favorable background for the proliferation of fungi.
Insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals, unbalanced nutrition, dysbacteriosis intestinal microflora.
Injury to the mucous membrane of the throat foreign bodies, exposure to aggressive substances (tobacco, alcohol, hot food, gases), chemical burn with aspiration of gastric contents. Any microtrauma that leads to a violation of the integrity of the mucous membranes opens the gate for the penetration of microflora, including fungal ones.
Outbreaks chronic infection in the body, for example, carious teeth, systemic sluggish diseases, neoplasms.

In cases of frequent recurrence, the patient should be examined for the presence of immunodeficiency conditions.

Clinical picture and diagnosis

The severity of signs of a fungal throat infection varies from person to person and depends primarily on the nature of the pathogen and the immune status of the patient. As a rule, the following symptoms indicate pharyngomycosis.

1.Hyperemia, swelling, soreness of the throat mucosa (occur due to inflammation).

2.Overlays of various nature(depending on the type of fungus) on the back wall of the pharynx, soft palate, tonsils, palatine arches:

infection by a fungus of the genus Candida is accompanied by the formation of whitish deposits of a dense cheesy consistency, loosely connected to the mucous membrane;
growths in the form of solid genital warts a gray or yellowish tint is characteristic of leptotrichosis;
dark red infiltrates of the mucous membrane are observed with actinomycosis; infiltration is often complicated by pus formation and the formation of fistulas, accompanied by intense pain.

3.Itching, soreness, discomfort in the throat when swallowing.

4. Symptoms of intoxication (fever, general weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite).

You can easily suspect a fungal throat infection by visible signs, but her in mandatory needs to be confirmed by special laboratory methods

Diagnosis fungal infection throat diagnosis is based on complaints, medical history (characteristic symptoms, their progression, effectiveness of previous treatment), information from the patient’s life (illness, medications, etc.). In addition, a medical examination and scraping of the pharyngeal mucosa followed by microbiological examination are required.

Treatment

Therapy of pharyngomycosis requires an integrated approach. The disease should be treated taking into account the isolated pathogen. It also depends on the severity of clinical symptoms and the patient’s condition. Antifungal drugs (fluconazole, clotrimazole, levorin, etc.) are used topically (spray, ointments) or, in severe cases, systemically in the form of tablets, injections, intravenous infusions.

TO antifungal therapy recommended antiseptics local action - various sprays, rinsing solutions or. In case of joining bacterial infection antibacterial drugs are indicated. It is also necessary to consider the rationality of immunomodulatory therapy, vitamin therapy and correction of intestinal dysbiosis.

Additionally, physical therapy is prescribed (electrophoresis, ultraviolet light, laser irradiation of the pharynx). Compliance with the exclusion of irritating (spicy, salty) and traumatic foods (excessively hot, hard, harsh) is indicated. If you should exclude white bread, cookies, and sweets from your diet.

Fluconazole is an effective treatment for most fungal infections

Traditional medicine

Folk remedies are effective as an auxiliary therapy and in preventing relapses of pharyngomycosis, in particular:

gargling with herbal decoctions (chamomile, celandine, St. John's wort, string, calendula), infusion of oak bark, cranberry and Kalanchoe juice;
rinsing the mouth after eating with the juice of half a lemon and a golden mustache (one spoon of juice), diluted in a glass of water;
lubricating the pharyngeal mucosa with sea buckthorn oil, which has an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect;
use as natural bactericidal agent garlic (a small clove after each meal is enough);
application essential oils(lavender, fir, citrus) in the form of inhalations or for oral administration;
rinsing the mouth and throat after each meal with an aqueous solution of soda.

As a rule, it is impossible to cope with the manifestations of the disease using traditional methods alone. In the case of a detailed clinical picture, it is mandatory pharmacological therapy carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor. In addition, you should not delay treatment, because a fungal infection is insidious and is often fraught with complications, especially in the case of a child or an elderly person.

Mushrooms surround a person throughout his life, and after it too. And there are a huge variety of them, ranging from household mold to severe tropical fungal infections. But what unites everyone is the implementation of the pathological process only in specific favorable conditions. Whether this process has begun and how advanced it is can be found out by taking a blood test for fungus in the body. What kind of analysis - let's figure it out!

The etiological factor is fungi, saprophytes and absolute pathogens. The first group exists in the human body in quantities of up to 3 logarithms and normally does not cause discomfort. The second group includes fungi from the surrounding world, which, if they enter the macroorganism, can cause disease.

Infection occurs in the following ways:

from environmental objects;
from animals;
from a person;
by activating its own opportunistic microflora.

When encountering a fungus, not everyone can get sick. First of all:

persons with reduced immunity;
persons with altered immunity.

If local protection is violated, dysbiosis develops (for example, vagina or oral cavity) and candidiasis develops against a pathological background.

With severe immunodeficiency caused by HIV, taking cytostatics, oncological therapy, fungal flora does not stop at damage to the dermis.

Severe visceral mycoses develop:

histoplasmosis;
mucorosis, etc.

Chronic diseases deplete the immune system, and they also have a constant source of inflammation. Add here periodic courses of antibiotic therapy and we get ideal conditions for the development of a fungal infection.

Antibacterial drugs kill not only pathogenic bacteria, but also representatives of normal flora. The mushrooms themselves are sensitive to a specific group of drugs. But against a sterile background they grow beautifully, causing inflammatory process.

Patients with diabetes are a tasty morsel for mushrooms with a “sweet tooth.” In addition to the body's impaired resistance to infection, people with diabetes have permanently elevated blood sugar and altered acidity.

Clinical picture

There are 5 types of fungal infections:

ringworm;
candidiasis;
systemic or visceral mycoses;
pseudomycoses.

This disease causes skin lesions. The causative agents are a group of dermatophyte fungi:

favus;
athlete's foot;
microscopy;
trichophytosis.

Infection occurs through contact with soil, animals and a sick person. Rounded areas of hyperemia appear, accompanied by itching. Subsequently, the spots are covered with scab.

With dermatophytosis, the hair follicle is involved in the inflammatory process:

it is destroyed;
hair falls out;
bubbles with cloudy purulent and hemorrhagic contents and crusts appear.

Inguinal dermatomycosis manifests itself:

pustular rashes;
redness;
peeling.

Keratomycosis

At lichen versicolor pink-coffee spots with scalloped outlines appear, which subsequently become peeling.

Candidiasis is a mycotic infection caused by yeast-like microflora. Fungus of the genus Candida is a non-spore yeast with a well-developed mycelium. Such microorganisms do not form capsules and do not produce carotenoid-type pigments. For human body most dangerous looking Candida is Candida albicans. Diagnosis of candidiasis takes great importance in drug therapy. Without determining the amount of yeast-like microflora and the type of thrush pathogen, it is impossible to prescribe effective treatment.

To diagnose candidiasis, it is necessary to follow the recommendations for testing. Otherwise, there is a high probability of obtaining a false negative result. This is fraught with further progression of the infectious disease, which causes the development serious complications and the addition of a bacterial infection.

Factors predisposing to thrush

For the purpose of prevention, diagnosis of thrush is carried out when the patient is exposed to certain factors that provoke the development of the disease:

Weak immunity is the cause of the development of candidiasis

Long-term antibacterial therapy.
Decreased protective functions of the body.
Use of oral contraceptives.
Diabetes mellitus and autoimmune diseases.

Women are more susceptible to developing candidiasis during pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes in the body. In this case, the fungus begins to multiply due to an increase in the amount of glucose in the vaginal microflora. The disease is often the cause of pregnancy complications. That is why, in order to prevent candidiasis, diagnosis of the disease in pregnant women is carried out once a month. early stages and 2-3 times in the later ones.

After the development of primary symptoms and as a preventive measure, during a visit to the doctor, the patient is tested for thrush. Among the main precursors, one should highlight the presence of itching and white plaque in the genital area, mucous membranes or skin. Discomfort increases after a shower and at night. It is imperative to get tested for women suffering from vaginitis, urethritis, cystitis or vulvovaginitis, and for men with the development of diseases such as prostatitis, cystitis, urethritis and epididymitis.

Determining the form of the disease

Before diagnostic studies the doctor conducts visual examination, which makes it possible to determine the form of the disease and the area of localization of foci of infection by the fungus.

Tests for candidiasis are prescribed taking into account the form of thrush, which can be of the following types:

Visual inspection

Damage to the oral mucosa. Occurs mainly in young children. The main symptom is the appearance of a white coating on the tongue and oral mucosa, which has a cheesy consistency.
Progression of fungal microflora in the intestinal area. In this case, candidiasis is considered as a severe form of dysbiosis. The disease develops in the absence of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. The main symptoms are flatulence, diarrhea and the appearance of white flakes in the stool.
Urogenital form of the disease. Appears when the local microflora in the area of the external and internal genital organs in women and men is disrupted. With this form of the disease, severe itching occurs and whitish discharge appears, which in structure resembles cottage cheese.

Differences in the clinical picture of candidiasis are observed depending on the gender of the patient. In women with damage to the external genitalia we're talking about about vulvitis, when the fungus progresses in the vaginal area - about vaginitis. Vulvovaginitis is most often diagnosed, cystitis and urethritis are less common.

For men who develop inflammation foreskin, balanoposthitis is diagnosed. In case of defeat urethra We are talking about urethritis. It is possible that prostatitis may develop against the background of a fungal infection. In advanced cases, inflammation of the epididymis occurs - epididymitis. In men, candidal cystitis often develops.

Informative techniques

Before thrush is diagnosed, the patient should be examined by profile specialist. Only a doctor can refer a patient for diagnostics, prescribing everything necessary tests for candidiasis.

Candidiasis is diagnosed through the following tests:

Several studies will be required for an accurate diagnosis

Microbiological diagnosis of candidiasis.
Fungal culture to determine the level of sensitivity to antifungal drugs.
PCR technique, the so-called polymerase chain reaction.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or ELISA for short.

Each laboratory test performs a specific function. That is why it is recommended to carry them out in combination. Only a thorough diagnosis makes it possible to determine the stage of the disease and prescribe effective drug therapy, eliminating the likelihood of relapses.

In conclusion, experts indicate the following information:

The presence or absence of fungal microflora.
Species of the causative agent of thrush.
Number of Candida Albicans colonies grown.

For example, asymptomatic carriage is characterized by a low amount of -<104 КОЕ/мл. При показателях равных или превышающих установленный уровень, ставится диагноз кандидоз (если выявилось >104 CFU/ml). In this case, sensitivity tests to antifungal agents are performed.

In order to more accurately diagnose thrush, the patient should not take any antifungal medications. Otherwise clinical picture may be blurred, which will complicate the process of identifying the pathogen.

Diagnosis of thrush using this method is carried out through microscopy. For research, scraping is carried out from the area where the fungus is localized. The presence of Candida cells does not indicate the presence of the disease. The whole point is in what quantity the fungus is present in the human body. Normally, each of us has it in moderation. In the presence of predisposing factors, there is an increase in yeast-like microflora, which is the cause of the development of symptoms of the disease.

Mature flora

Laboratory diagnosis of candidiasis, performed in this way, allows you to get more detailed information about the causative agent of the disease. To conduct the study, you need biological material such as sputum, urine, feces or a smear taken from the area where the infectious process caused by the Candida fungus is localized.

How will the result be determined? For inoculation, biological material is placed in a nutrient medium in a laboratory. This contributes to its reproduction and the creation of entire colonies, which after some time are visible even to the naked eye.

Next, an antifungal drug is applied to the fungal colonies. After this, specialists observe which of the drugs is most effective. Thus, the sensitivity is determined pathogenic microorganisms to medications.

It takes a lot of time to identify sensitivity - about 7-10 days. During this period, the patient receives supportive treatment, which is aimed at suppressing the activity of the fungus and preventing the development of complications.

PCR and ELISA

Polymerase chain reaction and enzyme immunoassay– the “gold standard” of all infectious diseases, including candidiasis.

PCR allows you to recognize the DNA of the virus, which allows you to accurately determine the causative agent of the disease. Using the results of this technique, doctors can prescribe highly effective therapy, which eliminates the likelihood of disease progression and complications. Polymerase chain reaction is a highly sensitive test. To conduct a laboratory test, blood, sputum, urine or scrapings are taken from the patient.

If a pathogen is detected, the result is positive; if absent, the result is negative. Even with a small amount of the pathogen, you can get an idea of the state of the microflora of the patient’s body and make an assumption about the development of candidiasis. In this case, after a certain period of time, repeated diagnostics are carried out.

ELISA tests for candidiasis allow you to check for the presence of antibodies in the blood. If pathogenic flora grows in the body, then IgG immunoglobulins are released into the blood, which is manifested in laboratory testing through biochemical reactions. Proteins can also appear in other infectious diseases, but thanks to high-precision equipment, specialists can determine what exactly caused them.

Basics of laboratory diagnostics

All tests for candidiasis are carried out using various biological materials, which is due to the polymorphism of clinical manifestations. The collection is carried out depending on the nature of the disease and the area of localization of the lesion. First, the native material is examined, the following are checked: bile, urine, skin flakes, feces, etc. Then the diagnosis is carried out on blood. The preparations used are prepared in a 10-20% solution.

During microscopic examination The filamentous phase of mycelium may appear, which indicates the presence of a pathogen in the body. Next, the amount of mycelium or pseudomycelium is determined. This allows for quantitative seeding on nutrient media.

Pathological material is diluted using MPB or Sabouraud liquid medium with glucose and without antibiotics, because it is possible to combine candidiasis with a bacterial form of sepsis. For a clearer result, they began to use a combined type of medium—cardiobrain. The progress of the procedure depends on the type of material being examined:

Blood cultures are performed 3-4 times, which allows for more accurate results. In this case, the collection is carried out from different veins over 1-2 days. In this case, the patient should not receive medicines having systemic action. If the patient has fungemia, then the growth of yeast-like microflora is observed after a few days.
Sectioned and biopsied material is used to prepare so-called histological preparations. The remains are sown on a liquid or solid medium. Tests for candidiasis in this case take up to 48 hours. In some cases, the growth of fungal colonies can be detected the next day.
Urine testing is carried out in several stages. To do this, one portion of biological material is placed in a special centrifuge for 5 minutes and Gram stained. For this purpose, methanol and antiglobulin antiserum are used.

Most pathogens are identified without assimilation tests. If chlamydospores are present, we are talking about identifying a pathogen such as C. albicans. If they are absent, further diagnostics are carried out.

The entire range of tests for thrush allows you to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe effective drug therapy. After the patient has completed the course of treatment, laboratory tests are repeated without fail, which makes it possible to determine the effectiveness of the therapy. If tests for candidiasis give a positive result, the treatment is repeated using other drugs.

The proliferation of pathogenic fungi in the intestines causes candidiasis, which begins to spread throughout the body. The initial growth of Candida flora in the large and small intestines leads to the penetration of fungi into the blood and damage to important organs. Cure fungal infection genitourinary system, kidneys, lungs is possible by suppressing mycosis at the very source of infection. The prescription of antimycotics, probiotic and prebiotic drugs, and the use of folk remedies are carried out taking into account the depth of the process, age category, contraindications, conditions immune system sick.

Is intestinal candidiasis a cause for concern?

Intestinal candidiasis means pathological changes, which are based on the active proliferation of Candida fungi in parts of the intestine that affect the mucous membrane. If the disease is not treated, the fungus spreads its harmful activity to other tissues and organs - stomach, liver, genitals, bronchial tree, pancreas, lungs, kidneys, spleen.

Intestinal candidiasis is a source of fungal infection of the whole body

Initially, fungal populations are constantly in the intestines, causing no harm. But when immunity declines and conditions are created that are unsuitable for the life of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, fungi give rise to explosive mass growth, turning into pathogens that are dangerous to the entire body.

Risk factors for Candida fungi

Among common factors, which predispose the intestines to the appearance of candidiasis, should be highlighted:

Low immune defense.
Unbalanced food intake.
Active, long-term therapy with antibacterial drugs, which leads to depression beneficial microflora intestines with simultaneous overgrowth of Candida.

Spread of fungi throughout the body

Complications

Intestinal candidiasis is dangerous possible complications in the form:

Ruptures of the mucous membrane and tissues intestinal wall(so-called intestinal perforation).
Spread of the ulcerative process to surrounding organs.
Internal bleeding.
Generalization of candidiasis with the introduction of fungi into the kidneys, liver, lungs, spleen.
Development of mycotic sepsis (penetration of fungi into the blood and infection of the entire body). The mortality rate for this type of candidiasis reaches 28–56% (in patients with acute leukemia or after transplantation).

Diagnosis of the problem

Diagnosis of fungal infection of the colon and small intestine very important for proper treatment.

The specifics of candidiasis in the intestines have not been studied too deeply by most gastroenterologists. Many patients have mild symptoms of intestinal damage, and the diagnosis made by endoscopic examinations, is often wrong.

When individual ulcers are detected on the intestinal mucosa, medicine hesitates to make a diagnosis, and specialized tests for the presence of a fungal infection are not carried out.

Practical medicine knows very well that fungus in the intestines is often early sign diseases with immunodeficiency syndrome. Therefore for correct setting Diagnosis requires observation and analysis of the patient’s general condition.

General principles of treatment

For effective treatment Intestinal candidiasis, a gastroenterologist provides a treatment regimen with the following basic directions:

Use of antifungal agents.
Elimination of intestinal dysbiosis accompanying candidiasis.
General strengthening agents and immunostimulants.
Treatment of the underlying disease that caused candidiasis.

Treatment with drugs

For intestinal candidiasis, competent therapy consists of prescribing:

antifungal agents, taking into account the type of candidiasis, depth of lesion, age and contraindications;
antibacterial drugs(included in the treatment regimen if candidiasis is accompanied by the addition of other pathogens);
drugs that restore the microflora of the large and small intestines;
therapy using immunostimulants.

Antifungal agents

For candidiasis in a non-invasive form, antifungal drugs absorbed in the intestines are used - fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole, itraconazole. The treatment regimen and dosage are selected individually, taking into account body weight. Form of application - tablets or intravenous injections.

A serious drawback - in tablet form, the funds are almost completely absorbed into the upper section intestines and they do not reach ileum where the bulk of pathogens is concentrated. Therefore, treatment by injection is more preferable. In addition, the use of these antifungal drugs is often accompanied by side effects, one of which is toxic hepatitis.

Important! To destroy intestinal fungi, it is necessary to use agents that are not adsorbed in the intestines and with a treatment duration of up to 10 days or more.

The source of the spread of fungi that causes the spread of fungi throughout the body (systemic candidiasis) is the intestines, therefore, without inhibiting the proliferation of Candida in it, antifungal treatment is ineffective or helps only for a short time.

Almost non-absorbable antifungal drugs include levorin, nystatin, Pimafucin (natamycin). The use of nystatin, levorin, as well as adsorbable agents, often has side effects (nausea, vomiting, allergies, diarrhea, toxic hepatitis).

Pimafucin is an antimycotic antibacterial agent with strong potential, acting against many pathogenic Candida yeast fungi. Compared with nystatin, Pimafucin has higher efficiency and less side effects. IN medical practice No cases of Candida resistance to natamycin have been identified. With repeated and long-term use of pimafucin, addiction to it does not occur. In this regard, it is possible to use a minimum dose that inhibits fungal growth. Pimafucin tablets are almost not absorbed, actively working in the intestines.

For candidiasis of the colon, rectal suppositories are used. The average estimated course is up to two weeks.

The issue of timely detection and treatment of intestinal candidiasis is very important to prevent the development of forms of systemic (spreading to organs) and generalized (with the penetration of fungi into the blood) candidiasis in patients receiving anti-tuberculosis drugs, radiation and chemotherapy. Here again, the use of non-absorbable antimycotic agents is more preferable, since even their long-term and repeated use has virtually no effect on the effect of other drugs.

Probiotics and prebiotics

Intestinal candidiasis is always accompanied by dysbiosis, so probiotics, which are live microorganisms representing the normal intestinal flora, are prescribed simultaneously with antimycotic drugs. Acidophilus bifidobacteria and lactobacilli help balance the composition and concentration of microorganisms in the intestines and have a detrimental effect on pathogenic microbes and fungi.

High-quality probiotics exhibit resistance to the action of antibiotics and antimycotic drugs, so they can be used simultaneously.

Prebiotics, also necessary for candidiasis, are chemical organic matter, which are not absorbed in the intestines, but stimulate the creation of optimal conditions for growth normal microflora(that is, for the same live probiotics).

Temporary side effects: loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, skin rash, fever, headache, urticaria, drowsiness.

Table: drugs used in the treatment of intestinal candidiasis

Name	Main action	Side effects
Adsorbable antimycotic agents
Fluconazole (Diflucan)	Compared with ketoconazole, it is more effective with a smaller dose side effects. Does not activate liver enzymes, does not cause toxic hepatitis. Capsules and syrup (0.5%). In pediatrics, tablets are approved from 4 years of age. Diflucan syrup - from the newborn period.	Passing – itching, rash, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain. Rarely: convulsions, liver dysfunction, bleeding, swelling, ventricular fibrillation, hair loss (alopecia), decreased calcium in the blood.
Ketoconazole	Actively inhibits the growth of yeast fungi.
Antifungal agents that are not absorbed in the intestine
Nystatin	The approximate duration of therapy is up to 14 days.	Significant frequency of side effects (dyspepsia, allergies, drug-induced hepatitis).
natamycin (Pimafucin)	Allowed when carrying a child, breastfeeding, in pediatrics - newborns.	At first, passing nausea and diarrhea are possible.
Antimicrobial drugs that normalize intestinal microflora. They are used in the treatment and prevention of intestinal dysbiosis that accompanies candidiasis.
	The drug is antidiarrheal, suppresses the activity of Candida fungi. Normalizes the balance of intestinal microflora.
Prebiotics are products that contain bacteria natural to the intestinal microflora. Maintains acidity (pH) that is favorable for the life of beneficial bacteria. Show average antibacterial effect against harmful microbes, stimulating immune mechanisms.
Lactusan, Maxilak, Duphalac, Inulin, Normaze, Lactofilter, Kandinorm, Eubicor, Prelax, Latkuzan DUO	Activate reproduction and normal environment for the vital activity of beneficial intestinal microflora. The treatment regimen and dosage are selected by a gastroenterologist taking into account age and based on individual characteristics course of the disease.
Hilak-forte	One of the components of the treatment of candidiasis. Corrects the qualitative composition of microorganisms in the intestines. Helps heal damaged intestinal walls.	Possible: constipation, diarrhea, skin rash, itching, urticaria.
Probiotics live beneficial microorganisms for therapeutic purposes, food additives, dietary supplements containing live microcultures. Mainly bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.
Lactobacterin, colibacterin, bifidumbacterin	They are active against most pathogenic microorganisms. Prescribing medications according to instructions.	No side effects were recorded. Contraindications – only individual intolerance.
	Contains lactobacilli - for small intestine, bifidobacteria - for the large intestine, supplies “medicinal” bacteria in balanced proportions. Produces acids, creating an environment detrimental to the growth of pathogenic fungi. Allowed for children under 2 years old.	Side effects may include flatulence (short-term).

Important! The duration of the course of treatment with antifungal agents, probiotics and prebiotic drugs is determined by the doctor individually. After the symptoms of the disease disappear, it is recommended to continue treatment for several more days.

The main indicator of the effectiveness of therapy for intestinal candidiasis does not simply mean negative result analysis for the study of yeast pathogenic fungi. Only the complete disappearance of the main symptoms and a decrease in Candida concentration to normal is a sign of positive dynamics in the treatment process. Often, for final recovery it is necessary to conduct repeated courses of antifungal therapy.

When treating intestinal candidiasis with antifungal agents, do not take corticosteroids and contraceptives, they significantly disrupt the balance of microorganisms in the intestines and promote the proliferation of Candida.

Diet, nutrition rules

Correct and effective treatment of intestinal mycosis is difficult to carry out if the patient does not follow a certain diet and basic nutritional rules.

The Candida fungus produces a large amount of toxic substances - toxins that penetrate the blood through the walls of blood vessels and poison the entire body. Disruption of the intestines contributes to the active proliferation of pathogens.

The most toxic substance produced by fungi is acetaldehyde, which quickly turns into ethanol. Patients suffering from candidiasis often feel an unpleasant feeling of hangover, apathy and fatigue in the morning.

A diet developed according to the rules during the period of Candida infection requires that the following be excluded from the diet:

alcohol;
fructose, which means all sweet fruit juices, purees;
honey, jams, preserves, white, brown sugar;
smoked products, spicy dishes, spices;
white bread, wheat flour and dishes made from it such as pancakes, pancakes (contain yeast);
sweets, baked goods, pastries, cakes (fungi, like ordinary nutritional yeast, “adore” a sweet environment);
fruits saturated with glucose - bananas, figs, grapes;
vegetables - sugar beets, potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, corn;
reducing the consumption of coffee and tea to a minimum (the substances they contain inhibit the effects of agents that kill fungi).

Photo gallery of prohibited products

Jams, jams - large amounts of fructose, sucrose Alcohol is food for a pathogenic fungal environment Fruits with high sugar content create a favorable environment for candidiasis Contain a lot of sugar, which promotes the growth of fungi in the intestines

Products necessary for the complex treatment of intestinal candidiasis must contain a small amount of carbohydrates, a sufficient amount of proteins, and minerals:

lean, stewed, boiled or steamed meat, fish, eggs;
dill, cilantro, parsley (a product that is rough on the stomach, therefore in small quantities), arugula, basil;
all types of lettuce, Chinese cabbage;
zucchini, beans, tomatoes, cauliflower, cucumbers, white cabbage;
low-fat cottage cheese, sour cream;
strawberries, blueberries, lingonberries;
cereals;
oats in any form - porridge, jelly;
unsweetened yoghurts, curdled milk, kefir, fermented baked milk, acidophilus drinks;
garlic.

Fermented milk products are an excellent environment that is destructive for fungi Cauliflower- Very healthy vegetable for candidiasis Fungi of the genus Candida, which have occupied the intestines, hate garlic and are afraid of it Steamed cutlets contain a minimum of harmful substances Oatmeal is perfectly absorbed and does not create favorable environment for the development of pathogenic fungi

Important! When curing one disease, you need to remember about others. Some foods that are beneficial for candidiasis may be contraindicated for peptic ulcers, inflammation of the kidneys, liver. Therefore, the choice of food package must take into account all contraindications for a particular patient.

Folk remedies

In folk home medicine, many natural remedies are used to treat intestinal candidiasis.

It is necessary to destroy pathogenic fungi from the inside. For this purpose they take medicinal herbal infusions, stabilizing disturbed metabolism, a healthy intestinal environment, strengthening the immune system.

But, as a rule, they really help only if they work in combination with antifungal drugs. Herbs and other natural remedies used separately help only with superficial mucocutaneous fungal infections and provide only temporary improvement, often relieving only the symptoms.

Important! Many natural substances may have contraindications and cause allergic reactions. Therefore, before using this or that remedy, it is necessary to carefully study its effect on all organs.

Acidic substances, products

The Candida fungus is afraid of an acidic environment, so everything that “acidifies” the body helps suppress pathogens - apple cider vinegar, tea and milk mushroom. These excellent remedies may be contraindicated for gastritis and ulcerative lesions.

Turmeric

In folk medicine, one of the spices is very often used as a useful addition in the treatment of candidiasis - turmeric. Curcumin, even at low concentrations, actively inhibits more than 20 strains of fungi, including Candida Albicans. Doctors consider it even more powerful than Fluconazole. But like any spice, turmeric can cause allergic reactions.

Mucous decoctions

For the treatment of candidiasis gastrointestinal tract Enveloping mucus works great. Simple oats give a wonderful effect, oatmeal, from which jelly is boiled or “steamed”. One glass of oats is poured with 600 - 800 ml of water, boiled for 3 - 4 hours over very low heat. Drink 100 ml warm several times a day before meals and before bedtime. When the intestines are colonized by fungi, treatment with jelly helps many patients.

Medicinal herbs

Kuril tea.

Tested folk remedy in the treatment of intestinal candidiasis.

Two teaspoons of chopped herbs are poured into a full glass hot water. Infuse for about 10 minutes, drink, without adding sugar, little by little. The course is no more than 20 days with a break of 7–10 days.

Herbal decoctions.

Burdock root, oak bark, and burnet are made from strong decoction, which is drunk 3-4 tablespoons before meals.

Decoctions with celandine.

Take 2 tbsp. tablespoons of celandine herb, calendula flowers, mint leaves, 3 each of birch and plantain leaves, 4 each of St. John's wort herb, burdock root. Three tablespoons of mixed herbs are poured into 300 ml of boiling water and heated in a water bath for about half an hour. Strain, cool. Drink half a glass three times a day before meals, about 20 to 30 minutes. The course of treatment is two weeks, the break is one week.

Important! Each of the herbs carries a certain danger under certain conditions of the body. Celandine is poisonous and should be taken in limited quantities, even in decoctions. Healing St. John's wort should not be used if you are prone to blood viscosity or thrombosis.

Black cumin oil.

Effective antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral agent: optimizes intestinal function by eliminating dysbiosis.

A simple way is half or a full spoon of oil (if in capsules, then 1 - 2 pieces) with meals; 3 times a day. Children can take half a teaspoon (1 capsule) 2 times a day. Drink for 2 weeks.

Bread method: place 25 drops of oil on a piece of bread and take with food.

Contraindications: During pregnancy, prostaglandins formed when using cumin can cause premature birth.

Soda solution.

Vaginal candidiasis in women, which often accompanies intestinal mycosis, is treated using soda solution in the form of douching. If fungi have infected the intestines, rectum, or anus, use enemas with a soda solution (a teaspoon per 200 ml of warm water).

This solution cannot be taken orally for intestinal candidiasis - it can significantly worsen the patient’s condition.

Any folk remedies have excellent antibacterial and good antimycotic effects, but are not able to completely replace pharmaceutical medications.

Features of treatment of the disease in women

In women, intestinal candidiasis is very often accompanied by fungal infection of the entire genitourinary system, and simultaneous yeast vulvovaginitis (colloquially “thrush”). In this case, a combined approach to the treatment of both pathologies is rational, since unilateral therapeutic effects will not lead to full recovery in the presence of an unsuppressed Candida focus.

Thrush in women is often one of the symptoms of intestinal candidiasis

Vaginal candidiasis manifests itself:

V severe itching external genitalia;
in yellowish-white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge;
in a burning sensation and increased urination.

An exacerbation of thrush is often detected before menstruation. This is due to a change in the vaginal environment towards increasing acidity (oral fungus occurs at an acidity pH in the range of 2.5 - 3.0).

Complex therapy tactics

Pimafucin in tablet form - for the treatment of intestinal and vaginal mycoses. At the same time, the use of Pimafucin suppositories is prescribed, used intravaginally for local action on fungi of the vaginal mucosa (up to 7 days). With concomitant anal candidiasis Suppositories are also used.
Fluconazole is taken in capsules simultaneously with the topical use of Terzhinan, Neopenotran, Clotrimazole, Butoconazole suppositories. Before administration vaginal suppositories Douching with a 0.5 - 2% solution of baking soda is indicated.

Features of treatment during pregnancy

Up to 85 pregnant women out of 100 studied are diagnosed with thrush. This is especially common in the first and last trimesters. Doctors believe that pregnancy is a factor that provokes candidiasis due to the increase in progesterone at this time.

Many experts consider it inappropriate to use Fluconazole during pregnancy. It is used only in extremely serious cases of fungal infections, when the possible benefit of the drug for the pregnant woman is much greater than the risk to the child.
Fluconazole accumulates in breast milk, therefore, the use of the medicine during breastfeeding is contraindicated.

Pimafucin is often used during pregnancy. Experts consider it one of the safest and most effective medicines against Candida fungi, even when used in the first weeks after conception. No negative effects on the fetus were detected during the studies.

Features of the treatment of candidiasis in children of different ages

Candidiasis in children with weakened immunity can pose a serious threat, penetrating into organs, tissues and blood. Thrush in a baby's mouth can always be a symptom of a more serious form of fungal infection. The main thing when treating candidiasis in pediatrics is to prevent such development.

Fluconazole (Diflucan)

Many questions arise about Diflucan, which is approved for infants. But the fact is that the active ingredient in Diflucan is fluconazole, which is not used in children under 4 years of age or in pregnant and lactating women.

Important! Since medical experts themselves have not reached a consensus on the use of Diflucan in children, a high degree of caution is required when using it for children under four years of age.

Diflucan in the form of a suspension is often prescribed even to newborns for intestinal candidiasis. The duration of therapy depends on the weakness of the immune system, concomitant diseases and neglect of the process. As a rule, treatment lasts from 1 week to 2 months. According to the observations of pediatricians, Diflucan is easily tolerated by children of all ages.

In premature newborns, the use of the drug also did not reveal any unwanted side effects.

Candida fungi on baby's tongue

Nystatin is taken by children up to one year old.

Pimafucin

Very young children are given tablets in the form of a crushed piece to avoid getting into the windpipe. The acidity of gastric juice at this age is reduced, so the product does not lose its activity. The duration of treatment is approximately 7 days. Side effects short-term and rare: slight nausea and diarrhea go away quickly without discontinuing Pimafucin.

Let mushrooms grow in the forest. The natural source of the spread of Candida fungi is the intestines, and if the fungus begins to actively multiply in it, then get rid of thrush, candidiasis urinary tract and kidneys is impossible. The activity of fungi in the intestines will support the development of candidiasis in other organs, causing relapses. The correct choice of treatment regimen for candidiasis and the selection of drugs is based on knowledge of: the form and localization of the process, the spread of Candida to other organs, the severity of the disease, age, concomitant diseases, and the state of the immune system.

Throat fungus is a fairly common disease caused by the activity of yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida, and in more rare cases, mold fungi of the genus Aspergillus. Mycosis of any localization - real problem, which should be resolved very quickly. Launched pathological process stopping is very difficult and difficult, and sometimes impossible.

The massive spread of fungal infection is currently due to frequent use antibacterial drugs that not only treat the underlying disease, but also reduce the overall resistance of the body, and also promote the growth and development of fungal microflora.

Throat fungus is found in men much more often than in women. First it develops, and then the infection descends and spreads to the mucous membrane of the pharynx and larynx. Clinically, the pathology is manifested by unpleasant sensations in the mouth, dryness,... There have been cases when a fungus in the throat was asymptomatic and went unnoticed.

In persons suffering chronic diseases of the ear, nose or throat, the fungus settles most often. The causative agents of the pathology are both pathogenic fungi and normal inhabitants of the human body. Under the influence of unfavorable external and internal factors, the normal quantitative ratio of microorganisms living in the oral cavity and pharynx is disrupted, dysbacteriosis develops, and then candidiasis.

Etiology

Fungus in the throat in most cases is candidomycosis, affecting the mucous membrane of the hypopharynx. Fungi of the genus Candida are yeast-like microorganisms that live in certain quantities in various areas human body. A decrease in general resistance caused by long-term antibiotic therapy disrupts the balance of local microflora and contributes to the development of pathology.

fungus of the genus Candida in the laboratory

The list of causes and factors contributing to the development of a fungal infection in the throat is quite wide:

Endocrine pathologies - diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, adrenal hyperfunction;

Congenital and acquired immunodeficiency;

Intestinal dysbiosis, gastrointestinal dysfunction;

Malignant neoplasms;

Metabolic disorders;

Wearing dentures, caries;

Inhaled corticosteroid use;

Blood diseases;

Hypovitaminosis;

Childhood, prematurity in infants;

Inadequate treatment of ENT organs;

Long-term use of cytostatics and hormones - oral contraceptives;

Organ and tissue transplantation;

Invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures;

Long-term and improper use of local antiseptics - sprays, lozenges, lozenges;

Menopause period in women;

Microtraumas of the mucous membrane of the throat;

Inhalation of air contaminated with dust, vapors of acids and alkalis;

Smoking;

Drinking hot food and strong alcohol;

Reflux esophagitis.

The most common fungal infection is candidiasis. This is an opportunistic infection that occurs in various clinical forms and manifests itself in the form of superficial mycosis with damage to the mucous membrane of the pharynx and larynx. Fungi included in this genus are large yeast-like cells of round, ellipsoidal or oval shape.

Candida are aerobic microorganisms that are cultivated at temperatures from 22 to 37 degrees. They grow well on liquid and solid nutrient media: Sabouraud, agar with the addition of wort, glucose, as well as on selective commercial media: Candiselect and chromoagar. To prevent the growth of accompanying microflora, antibiotics and anti-mold substances are added to the nutrient media. To study the biochemical properties of candida, Hiss media with sugars is used.

Fungi of the genus Candida are sensitive to high temperature and pressure, ultraviolet and sunlight, chlorine-containing disinfectants, phenol, acids, dyes, alcohol and mercury. Candida is widespread and is found in the human body, in environmental objects, in medical institutions, hairdressing salons, bathhouses, and children's institutions.

The infection is transmitted from sick people to healthy people through household contact, nutritional and by airborne droplets through contaminated food, kisses, and common household items. IN lately Vertical transmission of the pathogen from an infected mother to the fetus or newborn occurs. Nosocomial infection with candidiasis through the hands of medical staff, catheters, contaminated solutions, and instruments is possible.

In addition to the main clinical forms, healthy carriage of candida occurs among adults and children. It can be transient and permanent.

Inflammation of the throat of fungal etiology can occur not only in the form of candidiasis, but actinomycosis or leptotrichosis. With leptotrichosis, dense formations of gray or yellow in the form of spikes, and with actinomycosis - lumpy infiltrates of a dark red color.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of fungus in the throat:

Painful sensations in the throat, worse when swallowing,

Hyperemia of the throat mucosa,

Oral hypersensitivity,

White curdled discharge on the surface of the mucosa during candidiasis,

Yellow coating on the tongue and back of the throat in the presence of mold fungi,

Cracks, blisters, small ulcers and erosions in the throat,

Swelling of the nasopharynx and tonsils,

Intoxication - fever, weakness, loss of appetite.

A curdled coating on the mucous membrane is hallmark fungus in the throat. Discharge accumulates and rises above the surface of the tonsils, posterior wall of the pharynx, tongue, palatine arches. White dots and grains are clearly visible on the bright red inflamed mucous membrane. The discharge may take the form of films or plaques that tend to merge. The plaque is removed with great difficulty, and erosions and ulcers form underneath. In the absence of timely and adequate treatment, the infection spreads lower and affects the esophagus, organs of the respiratory and digestive systems.

In a child clinical manifestations candidiasis is much more pronounced. Intoxication and sore throat predominate. After removing the plaque, wounds form on the mucous membrane, from which droplets of blood are released.

When the palatine, pharyngeal or lingual tonsils are involved in the infectious process, fungal tonsillitis develops. The pharyngeal ring turns red and is covered with a white coating on top, spreading to the cheeks and tongue. In this case, the clinical signs are slightly expressed. Acute pain and intoxication is often absent. Patients experience discomfort and discomfort in the throat, malaise, headache, lymphadenitis. Children become moody and restless due to a sore throat.

Throat candidiasis is usually combined with candidal stomatitis, glossitis, cheilitis. A complication of the disease is secondary infection, leading to the formation of ulcers and abscesses. In persons with weakened immunity, generalization of infection with the development of sepsis is possible.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of the disease consists of identifying clinical symptoms, examining the patient and studying the results of additional studies.

Laboratory diagnostics - the main and most informative diagnostic method, which consists in isolating the pathogen and determining sensitivity to antimycotic drugs.

The choice of research method is determined by the location of the inflammation and the nature of the lesion.

The material for research is scraping or washing from the mucous membrane of the pharynx, larynx, tonsils, sputum, purulent discharge of the upper respiratory tract.

Treatment

Treatment of fungal tonsillitis is aimed at eliminating the underlying etiological factor diseases, restoration of the body's microflora, strengthening the immune system.

Traditional medicine

Etiotropic therapy for candida in the throat consists of using antifungal agents in the form of tablets "Fl uconazole", "Intraconazole", "Ketoconazole", "Amphotericin", "Clotrimazole", "Nystatin".

Choice antifungal drug depends on a number of factors:

Type of pathogen

Clinical form of the disease,

The patient's condition

The patient's age,

The sensitivity of the microbe to antimycotic agents,

Presence of immunosuppression.

Anfungal therapy is continued for 14 days after the disappearance of all symptoms of pathology and the absence of candida in the material from the lesion.

Speed up the treatment process and strengthen protective properties the body will be helped B vitamins in injections.

To strengthen the immune system, patients are prescribed immunostimulants and immunomodulators - “Immunal”, “Ismigen”, “Cycloferon”.
Local treatment includes the use of antiseptics in the form of aerosols and solutions - “ Miramistin", "Fukortsina", "Brilliant Green". Drops drop into children's mouths "Nizoral", "Pimafucin".

Drug treatment of fungal tonsillitis is supplemented with physiotherapy - ultraviolet irradiation of the palate and tonsils.

Traditional medicine

Means traditional medicine complement the main treatment, but do not replace it. You can use any folk remedy only after consultation with a specialist.

Gargle with infusion of golden mustache, oak bark, garlic or celandine, and soda solution.

Chamomile, sage, St. John's wort, and calendula have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Decoctions of these herbs are used for gargling.

A remedy consisting of lemon juice and golden mustache is instilled into the nose. This composition destroys fungus in the nose and nasopharynx.

Inhale the vapors of fir and eucalyptus oils.

Oil tea tree added to rinse solutions.

For candidal tonsillitis, use an infusion of Kalanchoe and propolis, as well as diluted apple cider vinegar, to rinse the mouth.

Prevention

To prevent fungal infection you must:

Video: fungus, fungal infections - Dr. Komarovsky