Candida Albicans, a Contributing Cause of Torpid Vascular Ulcers of the Lower Extremities

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Abstract
Candida albicans may often be detected in torpid vascular leg ulcers. When found, the organism is not merely a a contaminant, but in conjunction with vascular abnormalities and other microbial infections, it actually contributes to the persistence of the ulcer. Twenty-three patients with vascular ulcers were treated (stasis ulcers 15, hypertensive ulcers 2, arteriosclerotic ulcers 3, and diabetes 3). For the detection of Candida, 3 commercially available media were used: Nickerson''s Medium (Ortho Pharmaceutical Corp.), Pagano-Levin Medium (E.R. Squibb and Sons) and Monitube (S.E. Massengill Co.). Eight out of 23 ulcers showed the presence of Candida albicans. All 8 ulcers healed within 2 weeks and 4 months. Four of the eight patients with a positive Candida culture had diabetes. One should suspect Candida infections of ulcerations in patients with diabetes. Treatment consisted in application of Nystatin powder and cream. (Mycostatin powder and Mycolog cream; E.R. Squibb and Sons).

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