Skin is the largest organ in our body. It contains a vast number of different micro-organisms both on the inside and outside, including fungi. Whilst some of these microorganisms are beneficial, existent microorganisms could also cause a variety of infections, depending on the state of the host defect.

One of the most common skin infections caused by microorganisms is candidiasis. Candidiasis is typically caused by the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans, which can mimic a dermatophyte infection in the skin and nails, and is also able to colonise mucosal surfaces of oral, vaginal cavities as well as digestive tract. Even though candidiasis appears infrequently in healthy individuals, the occurrence of candidiasis has increased in the last few decades due to immunosuppressive treatments, long-term catheterisation and use of antibiotics.

In recent years, the use of anti-Candida IgY to prevent candida infections in humans has attracted interests from medical professionals and researchers. In a study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University, IgY against C. albicans cross-reacted with various Candida spp. and blocked of the binding of Candida spp. to the host cells. This fact together with the easiness of mixing IgY with gels and creams makes the former an attractive tool for preventing and treating cutaneous candidiasis.

Reference:
1. Takeuchi S et al. Effects of oral moisturising gel containing egg yolk antibodies against Candida albicans in older people. Gerodontology. 2014.
2. Fujibayashi T et al. Effects of IgY against Candida albicans and Candida spp. Adherence and Biofilm Formation. Jpn J Infect Dis. 2009;62(5):337-42.