Candida Infections: Epidemiology and Impact on the Patient Health-Related Quality of Life

Dear Colleagues,

Candida species are among the leading causes of fungal infections in humans, accounting for up to 90% of cases. Although yeasts are part of the normal microbiota of the skin and mucous membranes, they can cause infections of the skin, hair, nails, oral cavity, perianal region, external ear canal, cornea, or vulvovaginal mucosa, and may occur in individuals regardless of overall health status. Additionally, there is still no official consensus regarding intestinal candidiasis. For this condition, it has not yet been determined whether it represents an infection, dysbiosis, or intestinal fungal overgrowth, nor are there established recommendations for diagnosis and treatment. Although mucocutaneous Candida infections are generally not life-threatening, they can cause significant discomfort, chronicity, recurrent episodes, and complications. Anxiety, disrupted sleep, decreased self-confidence, impairment of daily activities, and reduced work efficiency are common among individuals with persistent Candida infections. The need for prolonged treatment, frequent clinical follow-ups, and dietary and lifestyle modifications further contributes to a decline in health-related quality of life among patients with chronic or recurrent Candida infections. Given the exceptional prevalence of all forms of candidiasis, epidemiological studies aimed at identifying the most significant risk factors, the most common pathogen types, and the quality of life of these patients could significantly contribute to prevention and, consequently, to improvements in health and health-related quality of life.

Dr. Nataša Krsto Rančić
Prof. Dr. Suzana Otašević
Guest Editors

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