Identification of abnormal levels of specific yeast species in the stool is an important diagnostic step in therapeutic planning for the patient with chronic gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal symptoms. Yeast sensitivities to a variety of prescriptive and natural agents are provided when yeast is cultured at any level. This provides the clinician with useful clinical information to help plan an appropriate treatment protocol.

Infection with yeast species can cause a variety of symptoms, both intra- and extra- gastrointestinal, and may escape suspicion as a pathogenic agent in many cases.   Controversy remains as to the relationship between Candida infection and episodes of recurrent diarrhea. 1 However, episodes of yeast infection after short-term and long-term antibiotic use have been identified in patients with both gastrointestinal and vaginal symptoms. 2

There is some evidence linking yeast infections with more chronic extra-gastrointestinal conditions.   Studies suggest that the production of antibodies against Candida Albicans may contribute to atopic dermatitis in young adults. 3 Other studies have identified the potential role of candidiasis in chronic fatigue syndrome. 4

1 Nolting S, Stanescu Siegmund A, Schwantes PA. Candida and the gastrointestinal tract. A medical-research evaluation. Fortschr   Med . 1998;116(6):22-8.

2 Goulden V, Glass D, Cunliffe WJ. Safety of long-term high dose minocycline in the treatment of acne. Br J Dermatol .   1996;134(4):693-5.

3 Savolainen J, Lammmintausta K, Kalimo K, Viander M. Candida albicans and atopic dermatitis. Clin Exp Allergy . 1993;23(4):332-9.

4 Cater RE 2 nd . Chronic intestinal candidiasis as a possible etiological factor in the chronic fatigue syndrome. Med Hypotheses . 1995;44(6):507-15.