Scientific Name: Candida albicans
![](https://parasiteguide.libbymitchell.dcreate.domains/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Candida-albicans-Figure-1.png)
Morphological Characteristics
There are three morphological forms of this fungus. Yeast are small, round cells that reproduce via asexual reproduction. Pseudohyphae are semi elongated cells, and hyphae are elongated cells which do not divide via cell division and instead cytoplasm and other important components pass between the cells.
Identification Methods
Yeast infections can occur in different parts of the body, so a sample is taken from wherever the infection is and then the fungi is identified using a microscope.
Life Cycle
-asexual reproduction in host
-habitat in mucosal membranes of humans
-transitions from organism which causes no harm into organism which is virulent based on the cell surface on which it is residing
HOST INFORMATION
- Can exist in different hosts
- Thrives in niches of human hosts such as gut, vagina, oral mucosa, and skin
- Often lives without causing any harm to humans, but a few condidtions can cause it to spread in a harmful way
- Anti-bacterial medications can call too much bacteria and cause the yeast to spread
- Is treated with an antifungal medication
GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION
This fungi is prevalent worldwide. Infections tend to occur on moist areas of the body.
SOURCES
https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/genital/index.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/yeast-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20378999
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjK4yCo-xEk