Jan 30th – Candida albicans is a diploid fungus that lives peaceably in over 80% of the population, a stolid member of the commensal community of microorganisms normally found on the skin and in the mucous membranes and gastrointestinal tract. However, from time to time, Candida albicans (C. albicans) develops territorial ambitions and transforms from a passive unicellular organism into an aggressive multi-cellular filamentous form. The result is candidiasis, commonly manifested as oral thrush, inflamed skin (such as observed in diaper rashes or compromised fingernails), or a genital yeast infection.
C. albicans infections can be provoked by such factors as a compromised immune system (whether from illness or stress), dietary changes, medical treatments or even alterations in hygienic routines that disrupt the normal balance of microorganisms. These infections exhibit a distinctive whitish color. (Indeed, the name Candida albicans redundantly means “white white,” as candida derives from the Roman custom of “candidates” for political office wearing white to demonstrate their purity, and albicans “to be whitish.”) Except in extreme cases, such as found in bloodstream-impacting systemic candidal disease, C. albicans infections are not dangerous and often self-resolve. Still, a variety of treatments from home remedies and topical creams to prescriptive medication are available which can expedite the process and help restore your corporeal community to a state of tranquility and purity. #365DaysOfMicroscopy