Alternative Names
Candida infection - esophagus; Yeast infection - esophagus
Definition of Candida esophagitis:
Candida esophagitis is a fungal or yeast infection of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
See also:
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Candida esophagitis is caused by the yeast Candida. It occurs when the yeast spreads from the mouth down the esophagus.
The condition is often a sign of a weakened immune system. The following raise your risk for Candida infections:
- AIDS
- Chemotherapy
- Diabetes
- Leukemia or lymphoma
- Organ transplants
- Other conditions that suppress or weaken the immune system
Oral thrush or a yeast infection makes an immunocompromised person more likely to get esophagitis.
