Alternative Names
Candida infection – esophagus; Yeast infection – esophagus
Definition of Candida esophagitis
Candida esophagitis is a yeast infection of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Candida esophagitis is caused by the yeast . It occurs when the yeast spreads from the mouth down the esophagus.
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
Signs and tests
Tests that show Candida include:
Treatment
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.
Expectations (prognosis)
Esophagitis can usually be treated effectively. The outcome depends on the immune system problem that makes the person develop the infection.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 8/28/2009
