The yeast Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogen. Like the dermatophytes, it flourishes in warm, moist conditions, and can cause candidal intertrigo, which is an infection of skin folds; paronychia; and onychomycosis. It can also cause genital and oral infections, but these are beyond the scope of this module.

Predisposing factors for candidal skin infection include diabetes, immunosuppression and humid environments. 

Predisposing factors for candidal nail infection include prolonged exposure to water, trauma to nail folds and immunosuppression.

• Candidal intertrigo typically causes moist, glazed areas of erythema and maceration in a body fold, such as under the breasts, in the armpits or around the groin. The infection can also occur between the fingers in people whose hands are wet for much of the time
• Candidal paronychia is usually chronic rather than acute. The proximal nail fold – the area at the base of the nail – becomes swollen, inflamed and boggy. The cuticles are lost and small amounts of pus can be squeezed out. The nail is discoloured and has transverse ridges. Candidal nail infection more commonly affects fingernails than toenails. 

Cutaneous candidiasis can be treated with topical antifungal agents. In addition to the imidazoles, nystatin is also active against Candida species. Candidal paronychia can be treated with topical antifungal agents but candida onychomycosis requires systemic treatment.