Changes in the Gut Microbiota in HIV-Positive Patients and Their Relationship with Candida albicans Colonization
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Abstract
The intestinal microbiota is established from birth and plays an essential role in maintaining homeostasis and modulating the immune response. In individuals with HIV, alterations in this ecosystem are frequently observed, especially in the oral microbiota, although there is still limited evidence in the literature regarding possible alterations also in the intestinal environment, which indicates a gap. These alterations may favor the colonization of opportunistic microorganisms, such as Candida albicans; in this context, Candida albicans, although part of the commensal microbiota, may become pathogenic under favorable conditions, potentially contributing to the inflammatory process and imbalance of the microbial environment. This study aimed to demonstrate the alterations in the intestinal microbiota caused by HIV and the consequent colonization by Candida albicans. An integrative literature review was carried out, consisting of articles in English and Portuguese published in the last ten years in the PubMed and ScIELO databases. From the research, it was possible to detect the prevalence of Candida albicans in patients living with HIV, as well as the presence of alterations in the intestinal microbiota. Therefore, the present study achieved its objective by evidencing alterations in the intestinal fungal microbiota, correlated with the increase of Candida albicans, associated with impairment of the immune system.
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