Identification and Characteristics of the Pathogen
Candida albicans is a pathogen found in the parts of the human body, such as the gut, genitals, and mouth. It represents a type of yeast and can cause several infections, ranging from “mucous membranes to systemic infections” (Pereira et al., 2020, p. 11). It is expected to find this pathogen in regular quantities when it does not harm a person’s health (Pereira et al., 2020). However, the development of infections is triggered when the pathogens overgrow, typically in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Historical Context and Detailed Overview of the Pathogen
The first description of the pathogen was made in 1844. It can exist in yeast and filamentous forms, which makes it a dimorphic fungus. While it is oval-shaped in the yeast form, it has branching structures called hyphae in the filamentous form (Pereira et al., 2020).
Several factors can lead to an abnormal growth of candida in the human body. These conditions include antibiotics that kill the bacteria and help maintain the usual quantities of the pathogen, as well as health conditions related to the immune system malfunctioning. Other factors may include hormonal changes and diabetes (Pereira et al.). Some of the infections caused by Candida Albicans include oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections, and invasive candidiasis (Pereira et al., 2020).
Antimicrobial Treatments: Names and Mechanisms of Action
Treatment for infections caused by this pathogen includes antifungal medications such as fluconazole and clotrimazole (Pereira et al., 2020). Fluconazole’s mechanism of action inhibits ergosterol’s synthesis, which leads to the death of fungal cells (Pereira et al., 2020). The action mechanism of clotrimazole is similar to that of ergosterol’s synthesis inhibition. However, the difference is that it alters the structure of membrane proteins (Pereira et al., 2020).
Alternative Treatment Approaches: Methods and Rationale
Antifungals are typically the most common treatment modality; however, probiotics are another essential treatment modality. Probiotics work by helping to restore the beneficial bacteria in the human body, which helps reduce the quantity of candida. This way, candida overgrowth is prevented, and the infection is stopped.
Reference
Pereira, R., Santos Fontenelle, R. O., Brito, E. H. S., & Morais, S. M. (2020). Biofilm of Candida albicans: formation, regulation and resistance. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 131(1), 11–22. Web.