Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: Pathophysiology, the Role of Biofilms, and Emerging Therapeutics

Pranitha Murali; Anthony Slate; Ryan Kean; William Johnston

doi:10.1007/978-3-031-93315-8_5

Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: Pathophysiology, the Role of Biofilms, and Emerging Therapeutics

Pranitha Murali, Anthony Slate, Ryan Kean, William Johnston

Glasgow Caledonian University

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Chapter › peer-review

Abstract

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a prevalent fungal infection of the female genital tract that impacts millions of women worldwide, representing a considerable burden on health and quality of life. Despite comprehensive knowledge of the causative species (Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida), approximately 8% of women experience recurrent VVC (RVVC), characterised by more frequent, persistent infections. Fungal biofilm formation has been proposed as one possible mechanism underlying this response; however, this remains a topic of debate. In this chapter, we review the current understanding of R/VVC pathophysiology, clinical presentation and diagnostic approaches. We further discuss the evidence linking biofilms to RVVC and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at better managing this challenging condition.

Original language	English
Title of host publication	Fungal Biofilms
Editors	Gordon Ramage, David Andes
Publisher	Springer, Cham
Chapter	5
Pages	105-132
Number of pages	28
Edition	1st
ISBN (Electronic)	9783031933158
ISBN (Print)	9783031933141, 9783031933172
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-93315-8_5
Publication status	Published - 7 Jun 2025

Publication series

Name	Springer Series on Biofilms
Publisher	Springer
Volume	15
ISSN (Print)	1863-9607
ISSN (Electronic)	1863-9615

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

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Cite this

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abstract = "Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a prevalent fungal infection of the female genital tract that impacts millions of women worldwide, representing a considerable burden on health and quality of life. Despite comprehensive knowledge of the causative species (Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida), approximately 8\% of women experience recurrent VVC (RVVC), characterised by more frequent, persistent infections. Fungal biofilm formation has been proposed as one possible mechanism underlying this response; however, this remains a topic of debate. In this chapter, we review the current understanding of R/VVC pathophysiology, clinical presentation and diagnostic approaches. We further discuss the evidence linking biofilms to RVVC and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at better managing this challenging condition.",

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T2 - Pathophysiology, the Role of Biofilms, and Emerging Therapeutics

AU - Murali, Pranitha

AU - Slate, Anthony

AU - Kean, Ryan

AU - Johnston, William

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AB - Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a prevalent fungal infection of the female genital tract that impacts millions of women worldwide, representing a considerable burden on health and quality of life. Despite comprehensive knowledge of the causative species (Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida), approximately 8% of women experience recurrent VVC (RVVC), characterised by more frequent, persistent infections. Fungal biofilm formation has been proposed as one possible mechanism underlying this response; however, this remains a topic of debate. In this chapter, we review the current understanding of R/VVC pathophysiology, clinical presentation and diagnostic approaches. We further discuss the evidence linking biofilms to RVVC and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at better managing this challenging condition.

KW - Vulvovaginal candidiasis

KW - Female genital tract

KW - Candida albicans

KW - Non-albicans Candida

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M3 - Chapter

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ER -

Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: Pathophysiology, the Role of Biofilms, and Emerging Therapeutics

Abstract

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UN SDGs

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