Candida tropicalis is a yeast species that can exist as part of the normal human microbiota, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract and mucosal surfaces. It has a higher pathogenic potential compared to some other non-albicans Candida species and is commonly associated with systemic infections in immunocompromised individuals. In the gut, elevated levels of C. tropicalis may suggest fungal overgrowth, dysbiosis, or a compromised immune system. Its presence in stool testing can help identify imbalances in the gut mycobiome and potential sources of inflammation or infection.
It's a yeast that can normally inhabit the gut but may become pathogenic, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Elevated levels may point to fungal overgrowth, gut dysbiosis, or underlying health imbalances.
While both can cause infections, C. tropicalis is often more common in bloodstream infections in immunocompromised patients and may exhibit higher resistance to treatment.
Factors include antibiotic use, immune suppression, high sugar intake, or chronic illness.