Does prednisone cause yeast infections
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Prednisone and Its Association with Yeast Infections
Prednisone and Increased Susceptibility to Infections
Prednisone, a commonly used glucocorticoid, is known for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. However, its use has been linked to an increased risk of infections. In patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis (SAH), prednisolone (a form of prednisone) was found to increase the susceptibility to serious infections, including those occurring after treatment . This heightened risk of infection is a significant concern, as it can offset the therapeutic benefits of the drug.
Fungal Infections Following Prednisone Use
Case Studies and Clinical Reports
Several case studies and clinical reports have documented fungal infections following the use of prednisone. For instance, a dog receiving prednisone for autoimmune hemolytic anemia developed a bone marrow infection caused by Phialosimplex caninus, characterized by yeast-like cells and hyphae . Similarly, a cat treated with prednisone for a month developed a systemic infection caused by Cryptococcus albidus, leading to granulomatous inflammation with encapsulated yeast cells .
Outbreaks and Broader Implications
The risk of fungal infections is not limited to isolated cases. A multistate outbreak of fungal infections in the United States was linked to contaminated methyl prednisolone injections, highlighting the broader implications of fungal infections associated with glucocorticoid use . This outbreak primarily resulted in meningitis but also included other severe infections.
Prednisone-Induced Microbiota Dysbiosis
Long-term prednisone treatment has been shown to cause dysbiosis of the fungal microbiota in the gut. In a study involving rats, prednisone treatment altered the composition and diversity of gut fungi, increasing the relative abundance of certain fungal species like Aspergillus glabripes while decreasing others . This dysbiosis can disrupt the ecological balance between the gut mycobiome and bacteriome, potentially leading to an increased risk of fungal infections.
Conclusion
Prednisone use is associated with an increased risk of various infections, including fungal infections. Clinical reports and studies have documented cases of severe fungal infections in both humans and animals treated with prednisone. Additionally, long-term prednisone treatment can cause significant changes in the gut microbiota, further predisposing individuals to fungal infections. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring and managing the risk of infections in patients undergoing prednisone therapy.
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