Book

Candida albicans is one of the most clinically significant fungal pathogens affecting humans worldwide. While commonly present as a harmless commensal organism within the human microbiota, it can rapidly transform into a life-threatening opportunistic pathogen under conditions of immune compromise or microbial imbalance. This dual biological identity has made C. albicans a central focus in medical mycology, infectious disease research, and clinical medicine. Candida albicans: Biology, Pathogenesis, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, and Treatment provides a comprehensive and integrated reference on this important organism. The book explores the fundamental biology of C. albicans, including its taxonomy, genomics, and remarkable morphological plasticity that allows transitions between yeast, pseudohyphal, and hyphal forms—key mechanisms underlying pathogenicity and tissue invasion. Beyond molecular and cellular biology, the volume examines host–pathogen interactions, virulence factors, biofilm formation, antifungal resistance, and the clinical spectrum of candidiasis—from mucocutaneous infections to invasive candidemia and systemic disease. The book also provides an in-depth discussion of modern diagnostic approaches, current antifungal therapies, and emerging strategies including rapid molecular diagnostics, immunotherapy, and vaccine development. Designed for clinicians, microbiologists, infectious disease specialists, and biomedical researchers, this reference offers both foundational knowledge and insights into the latest advances shaping the future management of candidiasis.