Objective: evaluating the pathogenesis, epidemiology and diagnosis of deep-seated Candida infections (with the exclusion of candidemia) in the intensive care unit (ICU). Summary of findings: strongly debilitated patients, in particular those on an ICU, are at increased risk of developing invasive candidiasis. However, epidemiologic data on deep-seated candidiasis are scarce. This could be explained by the relatively low prevalence of these a-specific clinical entities, but could also be due to the problematic and often late diagnosis. Deep-seated candidiasis can present in a variety of clinical pictures and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Because of the difficult diagnosis, this condition is thought to be underdiagnosed. However, frequent clinical situations, e.g. isolation of Candida in respiratory and urinary samples, lead to overdiagnosis of infection and overconsumption of antifungals. Conclusions: deep-seated candidiasis may occur in strongly debilitated patients, and has been associated with considerable morbidity and mortality, although diagnosis is often difficult. © 2011, Nederlandse Vereniging voor Intensive Care.