Definition
Candida esophagitis is a yeast infection in the food pipe. If left untreated, it can spread or affect swallowing.
Causes
This infection is caused by the fungus candida. Small amounts of this fungus live in moist places in the body. The mouth and throat are common areas. The body can normally keep the fungus under control. Medical issues or treatment can weaken the body’s protection. This leads to an infection from overgrowth of fungus.
Risk Factors
This infection may be more common in older adults. Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Health issues that make it hard to fight infection, such as:
- HIV
- Certain types of cancer
- An organ transplant
- Diabetes
- Some medicine, such as antibiotics or corticosteroids
- Poor nutrition
- Alcohol use disorder
Symptoms
Some people may not have symptoms. Those who do may have:
- Problems and pain when swallowing
- Pain behind the breastbone
- White patches in the mouth and throat
- Burning of the tongue
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. An exam will be done. The doctor will make a diagnosis based on the exam.
An endoscopy may also be done. A tube is passed down the throat. The doctor will be able to look at the throat lining. Fluids or tissue samples may also be taken for testing.
Treatment
Candida esophagitis is treated with antifungal medicine. The medicine may be given by mouth or IV.
Prevention
Some illnesses, like HIV, can make it hard to fight infections. Treatment can make the body stronger. This can help prevent infections.
RESOURCES
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov
National Foundation for Infectious Diseases http://www.nfid.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Health Canada https://www.canada.ca
The College of Family Physicians of Canada https://www.cfpc.ca
References
Candida infection. The Oral Cancer Foundation website. Available at: https://oralcancerfoundation.org/complications/candida. Accessed April 27, 2022.
Candida infections of the mouth, throat, and esophagus. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/thrush/index.html. Accessed April 27, 2022.
Esophageal candidiasis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/esophageal-candidiasis. Accessed April 27, 2022.
Mohamed AA, Lu XL, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of esophageal candidiasis: Current Updates. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2019:3585136.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board David L. Horn, MD, FACP
- Update Date: 04/27/2022