Candida Yeast Infection

Diagnosis of candida infection can often be accomplished by the presence of symptoms alone. To confirm the diagnosis, however, samples of the fungus have to be identified under a microscope. During this test, scrapings or smears of the tissue are taken from skin, nails, oral mucosa, and vaginal mucosa and identified with a low-powered microscopic examination, a process that gives immediate results. Biopsy samples may be taken from deeper lesions. Candida antibody levels in the blood can also be measured.

It may also be helpful to measure the pH of the stomach and first part of the small intestine because abnormalities in the acid environment of the stomach can encourage Candida infection. This can be determined with the noninvasive Heidelberg test. The Heidelberg pH Capsule Gastric Analysis requires swallowing a small capsule that contains a sensitive pH probe and radio transmitter. The probe measures pH values of secretions in the stomach and small intestine and transmits the values to an external receiver. The capsule passes harmlessly through the stomach and intestines and is eventually excreted. Abnormal acid conditions may indicate elevated risk for a fungal infection.