Candida albicans: cellular immune system interactions during different stages of the menstrual cycle
Article Abstract:
Candida albicans is a yeast-like fungus, normally present in the vaginal tract, which causes vaginal infections when it grows beyond controlled levels. For many women candida infections are not eliminated by conventional treatments. Recurrent infections occur more often in pregnant women, women using birth control pills, and right before the onset of menstruation. Therefore, it is suggested that high estrogen and progesterone hormone levels increase susceptibility to vaginal candida infection. The ability for the candida organism to adhere to the cells of the vagina and optimal conditions for growth determine whether candida will flourish. To determine the factors which influence growth, the immune response of healthy women with a history of candida infections was studied during the menstrual cycle. Blood samples obtained during different phases of the menstrual cycle were used to grow candida in the laboratory. Candida albicans grew best in blood serum taking during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, the period just before menstruation. Cellular immune responses were diminished, affecting the ability of cells to fight infecting organisms, and the ability to prevent continued growth of organisms. Fluctuations in hormone levels produced by oral contraceptives explained changes in the immune response to candida in this population. Candida vaginal infections which appear before menstruation are the result of altered immune function.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 1989
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Are you a lumper or a splitter?
Article Abstract:
Genetic polymorphisms analyses of mother and fetus, along with highly sensitive non-culture methods of microbial detection, have identified patients at elevated risk for premature labor and delivery. The utilization of complete information has provided a basis for more specific and individualized therapeutic interventions.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 2006
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Effect of human seminal fluid on production of messenger ribonucleic acid for metalloproteinase 2 and metalloproteinase 9 in cervical epithelial carcinoma cells
Article Abstract:
Semen appears to increase the production of metalloproteinases, which are enzymes necessary for tumors to spread. This may be one reason sexual intercourse is a risk factor for cervical cancer.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 1999
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