Volume 222 Issue 3, 10 February 2017
The SEM series: Candida albicans
Each cover in volume 222 of the BDJ will feature a scanning electron microscope image showing bacteria or tissues found in the mouth. Scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) allow us to look at surfaces in nano-dimensions, 100 million times smaller than the human eye can see. They work by using beams of electrons instead of light rays. These electrons bounce off the surface of the material in question and are directed at a screen (like a cathode-ray TV screen) where they display a picture of the surface.
On the cover of this issue is an SEM image of Candida albicans yeast. C. albicans is a single-celled fungus in which the cells reproduce asexually, with daughter cells budding from the parent cells. This fungus is commonly found on the skin and the mucous membranes of the mouth, digestive and respiratory tracts, and the vagina, where it is usually harmless. However, the use of antibiotics or a suppressed immune system can lead to infection. Common candida infections include oral thrush, vaginal thrush and nappy rash.
Credit: Science Photo Library
Editorial
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