HIV

HIV and Fungal Infections

Fungal Infections and STDs

What Are Fungal Infections?

Fungi (singular is fungus) are a kind of germ. Most fungi are harmless to humans, but there are several that can cause harmful infections, especially in HIV+ people. HIV AIDS Books

 Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a very common fungal infection usually caused by Candida albicans. This yeast-like fungus is found in all healthy people. The immune system and bacteria normally found in the body generally keep Candida under control.

When it gets out of control, Candida can cause problems in the mouth, throat, or vagina. This can happen when HIV weakens the immune system or when you take antibiotics (which can kill the helpful bacteria).

HIV

The medications used to fight Candida are anti-fungal drugs called "azoles." Examples are Nizoral (ketoconazole), Diflucan (fluconazole), or Sporanox (itraconazole). Azoles should not be used in pregnant women. In addition, many of the anti-fungal drugs interact with HIV drugs.

Candidiasis can come back repeatedly. Some doctors prescribe anti-fungal drugs on a long-term basis, but this can lead to drug-resistant Candida that is more difficult to treat.

<< Previous    [1]  2    Next >>