The underlying mechanisms of Candida and candidiasis and promising new directions in drug discovery and treatment. Reviews all aspects of this common fungal pathogen and its impact on human health, from the basic biology of Candida albicans to the clinical management of candidiasis. Reviews the latest basic and clinical research, focusing on findings in genome variability, host-pathogen interactions, antifungal resistance and drug discovery, and diagnostics to foster better understanding and treatment of candidiasis. Examines recent discoveries that have shed light on morphogenesis and the cell cycle, including how new findings on host responses may have applications for the diagnosis of blood-borne candidiasis.