Definition of Candida esophagitis:

Candida esophagitis is a yeast infection of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

See also:

• Candida-associated diaper dermatitis
• Candidiasis - oral
• Vaginal candidiasis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Candida esophagitis is caused by the yeast Candida. It occurs when the yeast spreads from the mouth down the esophagus.

The condition is often a sign of a weakened immune system. The following raise your risk for Candida infections:

• HIV/AIDS
• Chemotherapy
• Diabetes
• Leukemia or lymphoma
• Organ transplants
• Other conditions that suppress or weaken the immune system

If you have a weakened immune system, thrush in the mouth (oral thrush) makes you more likely to get Candida esophagitis.

Symptoms:

Symptoms include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Fever (only if the fungus spreads further)
• Oral thrush (Candida in the mouth)
• Painful swallowing

Signs and tests:

Tests that show Candida include:

• EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) with or without biopsy, staining, and culture
• Mouth orthroat swab culture
• Upper GI and small bowel series

Treatment:

In most people, antifungal medicines such as fluconazole (taken by mouth) or amphotericin (given by injection) can control the infection. Some people also need pain medicine. Many patients need other, long-term medicines to suppress the fungus and prevent another episode.

Expectations (prognosis):

Esophagitis can usually be treated effectively. The outcome depends on the immune system problem that makes the person develop the infection.

Complications:

• Holes in your esophagus (perforation)
• Recurrent infection
• Spread of Candida to other sites in your body

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of esophagitis, especially if you know that you are immunosuppressed.

Prevention:

Preventing HIV/AIDS lowers your risk for infections such as Candida. Good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of infection.