Final answer:
The most common form of pathogenic Candida species is Candida albicans, which is responsible for vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common form of pathogenic Candida species is Candida albicans. It is responsible for fungal infections such as vaginal yeast infections (vaginitis) and oral thrush.
Candida spp. are normally present in the healthy microbiota of various parts of the body, including the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and female urogenital tract.
However, under certain conditions that compromise the host's defenses, such as pH alterations, immune system weakness, or changes in the normal population of bacteria, Candida spp. can overgrow and cause infections.
For example, disruptions in the normal vaginal microbiota can lead to an overgrowth of Candida, resulting in vaginal candidiasis. Sexual contact can also be a mode of transmission for Candida infections.