Definition
noun
A yeast-like fungus that abounds in nature and part of the gut flora. However, it is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause infection to its host when the host immune system is compromised or when the balance in gut flora is disrupted leading to less competition and (eventually) to its overgrowth.
Supplement
Candida albicans is the species responsible for many Candida-related infections generally called candidosis (or candidiasis) of the mucous parts of the mouth, vagina, skin, esophagus, and other organs.
Word origin: Candida from Latin of candidus (bright, light)
Scientific classification:
- Kingdom: Fungi
- Phylum: Ascomycota
- Class: Saccharomycetes
- Order: Saccharomycetales
- Family: Saccharomycetaceae
- Genus: Candida
Previous name(s):
- Monilia albicans
- Oidium albicans
- Candida stellatoidea
See also:
- Candida
Mentioned in:
- candidiasis
