APA Dictionary of Psychology

n. infection caused by yeastlike fungi of the genus Candida, especially the species Candida albicans. These fungi are part of the normal flora of the mouth, skin, intestinal tract, and vagina but under certain circumstances can cause a variety of infections. Candidiasis commonly affects the mouth, skin folds, and vagina. Less commonly, but more seriously, Candida can cause systemic infection leading to septicemia, endocarditis, meningitis, or osteomyelitis. Such serious infections are more common in individuals who are weakened or immunocompromised, such as those with HIV/AIDS. Candidiasis was formerly called moniliasis.