Candida esophagitis (patient information)
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Candida esophagitis |
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Candida esophagitis On the Web |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Candida esophagitis is a yeast infection of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
What are the symptoms of Candida esophagitis?
Symptoms include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever (only if the fungus spreads further)
- Oral thrush (Candida in the mouth)
- Painful swallowing
What causes Candida esophagitis?
Candida esophagitis is caused by the yeast Candida. It occurs when the yeast spreads from the mouth down the esophagus.
Who is at highest risk?
The condition is often a sign of a weakened immune system. The following raise your risk for Candida infections:
- HIV/AIDS
- Chemotherapy
- Diabetes
- Leukemia or lymphoma
- Organ transplants
- Other conditions that suppress or weaken the immune system
If you have a weakened immune system, thrush in the mouth (oral thrush) makes you more likely to get Candida esophagitis.
Diagnosis
Tests that show Candida include:
- EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) with or without biopsy, staining, and culture
- Mouth orthroat swab culture
- Upper GI and small bowel series
When to seek urgent medical care?
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of esophagitis, especially if you know that you are immunosuppressed.
Treatment options
In most people, antifungal medicines such as fluconazole (taken by mouth) or amphotericin (given by injection) can control the infection. Some people also need pain medicine. Many patients need other, long-term medicines to suppress the fungus and prevent another episode.
Where to find medical care for Candida esophagitis?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Candida esophagitis
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Esophagitis can usually be treated effectively. The outcome depends on the immune system problem that makes the person develop the infection.
Possible complications
- Holes in your esophagus (perforation)
- Recurrent infection
- Spread of Candida to other sites in your body
Prevention of Candida esophagitis
Preventing HIV/AIDS lowers your risk for infections such as Candida. Good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of infection.