Medical Terminology for Yeast Rash
The medical term for a yeast rash is "cutaneous candidiasis" or "candidiasis" when referring to superficial skin infections caused by Candida species. 1
Terminology and Clinical Presentation
Cutaneous candidiasis is the formal medical term used to describe yeast infections of the skin, characterized by rash associated with itching and swelling 1
Mucocutaneous candidiasis is used when the infection involves both mucous membranes and skin surfaces 1
Intertriginous candidiasis (or candidal intertrigo) specifically refers to yeast infections in skin folds where moisture accumulates 2
Common Clinical Variants
The terminology varies based on anatomical location:
- Vulvovaginal candidiasis for vaginal yeast infections 1, 3
- Oropharyngeal candidiasis (thrush) for mouth infections 1
- Candidal balanitis for penile infections 4
- Diaper candidiasis for diaper area infections in infants 1
Causative Organism
Candida albicans is the most common species causing these infections, though other Candida species (C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis) can also be responsible 1, 5, 6
The term "candidiasis" derives from the genus name Candida, which encompasses the yeast organisms responsible for these infections 1
Clinical Recognition
The characteristic presentation includes erythematous (red) plaques or patches, often with satellite lesions (small pustules or papules surrounding the main rash) 2, 7
Diagnosis is confirmed by potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation demonstrating yeasts or pseudohyphae 2, 7
In immunocompromised patients, systemic candidiasis with cutaneous manifestations may present as a maculopapular or nodular rash 8