Which is a yeast like fungi: September 2007
**Core Concept**
Candida is a genus of fungi that belongs to the class Saccharomycetes, which includes many yeast-like fungi. These fungi are characterized by their unicellular, budding growth habit, and they are commonly found in the environment, on the skin, and in the gastrointestinal tract.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Candida species, such as Candida albicans, are typically yeast-like fungi that can form pseudohyphae and true hyphae under certain conditions. They are opportunistic pathogens that can cause a range of infections, from superficial skin infections to life-threatening invasive candidiasis. The ability of Candida to form biofilms and adhere to host tissues contributes to its pathogenicity.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Cryptococcus is a genus of fungi that belongs to the class Tremellomycetes, which includes capsule-forming yeast. While Cryptococcus neoformans can cause serious infections, it is not typically classified as a yeast-like fungus in the same way as Candida.
**Option C:** Blastomyces is a genus of fungi that belongs to the class Blastomycetes, which includes dimorphic fungi that can cause respiratory infections. Blastomyces dermatitidis, the most common species, is not typically classified as a yeast-like fungus.
**Option D:** Histoplasma is a genus of fungi that belongs to the class Onygenales, which includes dimorphic fungi that can cause respiratory infections. Histoplasma capsulatum is not typically classified as a yeast-like fungus.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Candida species are often found on the skin and in the gastrointestinal tract, and they can cause a range of infections in immunocompromised individuals. The ability of Candida to form biofilms and adhere to host tissues contributes to its pathogenicity.
**Correct Answer Line**
β Correct Answer: B. Candida