In which type of patients is candidiasis most commonly seen?

Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by yeasts of the genus Candida, commonly Candida albicans. It is frequently observed in immunocompromised patients due to their weakened immune systems, which are less able to fend off infections, including those caused by opportunistic pathogens like Candida.

In individuals who are immunocompromised, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy, or living with HIV/AIDS, the ability of the immune system to control the growth of Candida is significantly impaired. This results in an increased risk of candidiasis, which can manifest in various forms, including oral thrush, esophageal candidiasis, and invasive candidiasis.

While candidiasis can occur in healthy individuals and specific populations such as infants or those with diabetes, the prevalence and severity are markedly higher in immunocompromised patients. For example, infants, while they can also develop candidiasis, typically have a competent immune response as they grow. Likewise, uncontrolled diabetes can predispose individuals to candidiasis due to factors like high blood sugar levels affecting immune response, but the risk remains more significant in those with compromised immunity. Therefore, the highest association is with patients who have an impaired immune system.