Probiotics for oral and vulvovaginal candidiasis: A review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Common dermatological medications like antibiotics and corticosteroids elevate candidiasis risk.
• Conventional antifungals face challenges due to side effects and emerging Candida resistance.
• Probiotics demonstrate efficacy in managing other forms of infectious diarrhea.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review dermatological therapies increasing candidiasis risk.
• To evaluate the scientific literature on probiotics for oral and vulvovaginal candidiasis.
• To inform dermatologists on the supplemental use of probiotics with antifungals.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on candidiasis.
• Analysis of research on probiotic efficacy in managing fungal infections.
• Synthesis of data regarding probiotic use in dermatology.

Main Results:

• Certain dermatological treatments are linked to increased candidiasis incidence.
• Evidence suggests probiotics may offer benefits in preventing and treating candidiasis.
• Probiotics show potential as an adjunct therapy to conventional antifungals.

Conclusions:

• Dermatologists should be aware of medications that predispose patients to candidiasis.
• Probiotics represent a promising supplemental strategy for managing candidiasis.
• Further research is warranted to establish optimal probiotic protocols in dermatological practice.