Cervix, Candida

Candida species are common yeasts that may be present in approximately 3% of Pap smears, and does not necessarily indicate a symptomatic infection. Candida is common in women of reproductive age but it can occur at any age, and is more common in the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Approximately 75% of women will acquire Candida infection at some time during their lives, which is often associated with immunosuppression (steroid use, HIV, diabetes, etc.), antibiotics, chemotherapy, and soaps. Histologically, Candida may be seen as branching hyphae, approximately half the diameter of an intermediate cell nucleus. Associated neutrophils are often present.