Candida albicans is commonly responsible for which condition in infants?

Candida albicans is commonly responsible for which condition in infants?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Otitis externa
• C. Diaper rash
• D. Meningitis

Answer: (C)

Candida albicans loves warm, moist skin folds, so the diaper area in infants is a perfect spot for overgrowth. When this yeast proliferates there, it causes diaper dermatitis—an eruption that appears as a bright red, well-defined rash with satellite lesions around the diaper region. Antibiotics can promote this by reducing competing bacteria that normally keep yeast in check. The typical management is topical antifungal treatment and keeping the area dry and clean, with frequent diaper changes and a moisture barrier as needed. Other conditions listed are caused by different pathogens or processes—for example, diaper rash from irritants or other infections is not due to Candida, while diarrhea, otitis externa, and meningitis involve different sites and etiologies.

Candida albicans loves warm, moist skin folds, so the diaper area in infants is a perfect spot for overgrowth. When this yeast proliferates there, it causes diaper dermatitis—an eruption that appears as a bright red, well-defined rash with satellite lesions around the diaper region. Antibiotics can promote this by reducing competing bacteria that normally keep yeast in check. The typical management is topical antifungal treatment and keeping the area dry and clean, with frequent diaper changes and a moisture barrier as needed. Other conditions listed are caused by different pathogens or processes—for example, diaper rash from irritants or other infections is not due to Candida, while diarrhea, otitis externa, and meningitis involve different sites and etiologies.