Abstract
Candida infection of the esophagus has been reported not only in immunocompromised hosts but also in healthy individuals. However, its mechanisms of action in healthy individuals have not been clarified. Our previous study suggested that physical contact was an important factor for the adherence ofCandida albicans. The aim of the present study was to test our hypothesis and clarify the adherence mechanisms. Suspensions ofCandida albicans cells were given to rabbits in drinking water without the use of immunosuppressive drugs and/or antibiotics, and the esophagus was examined. Candidial lesions were observed in 14 of 15 rabbits given the suspensions held in water with and without 30% sucrose for 13 days. The number ofCandida albicans cells adhering to the esophagus per square millimeter by subepithelial cell insertion was significantly larger than that adhering by attachment. These results indicate that adherence ofCandida albicans to the esophagus occurs by sustained physical contact alone under a nonimmunosuppressive state, and that subepithelial cell insertion results in greater attachment on adherence. Our findings provide a clue that may help clarify the mechanism ofCandida infection in healthy individuals.
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Hoshika, K., Iida, M. & Mine, H. EsophagealCandida infection and adherence mechanisms in the nonimmunocompromised rabbit. J Gastroenterol 31, 307–313 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02355017
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02355017