What are the common causes of oral thrush. How can you identify symptoms of oral candidiasis. What treatment options are available for yeast infections in the mouth. How does oral thrush affect babies vs adults. When should you see a doctor for oral thrush symptoms.

Understanding Oral Thrush: A Common Yeast Infection

Oral thrush, medically known as oral candidiasis, is a yeast infection that affects the mouth. While it can occur in people of all ages, it’s particularly common in infants and individuals with weakened immune systems. This fungal infection is characterized by white or yellowish patches in the mouth and can cause discomfort and an unpleasant taste.

What Causes Oral Thrush?

The primary culprit behind oral thrush is the fungus Candida albicans. However, other Candida species can also be responsible, including:

• Candida glabrata
• Candida tropicalis
• Candida krusei

These fungi naturally exist in small amounts in our mouths, but certain factors can lead to their overgrowth, resulting in an infection.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Oral Thrush

Identifying oral thrush early can lead to more effective treatment. The symptoms can vary between adults and babies, but some common signs include:

In Adults:

• White or cream-colored deposits on the tongue, inner cheeks, and gums
• Redness or soreness in the affected areas
• A cottony feeling in the mouth
• Loss of taste or an unpleasant taste
• Difficulty swallowing (in severe cases)

In Babies:

• White patches on the tongue, resembling cottage cheese
• Refusal to feed or discomfort while feeding
• Fussiness and irritability

Do these symptoms always indicate oral thrush? Not necessarily. Similar symptoms can occur with other oral conditions, so it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Different Types of Oral Thrush

Medical professionals often categorize oral thrush into three main types based on appearance:

1. Pseudomembranous: Characterized by white to whitish-yellow plaques that resemble cottage cheese.
2. Erythematous (atrophic): Appears as red, raw patches rather than white.
3. Hyperplastic: The least common type, featuring hard-to-remove, solid white plaques.

Can oral thrush manifest differently in various individuals? Indeed, the appearance and severity of symptoms can vary based on factors such as overall health, immune system function, and the underlying cause of the infection.

Treatment Options for Oral Thrush

Treating oral thrush typically involves antifungal medications. The specific treatment plan depends on the severity of the infection and the patient’s overall health.

Mild Cases:

• Clotrimazole troches: 10 mg, five times daily
• Nystatin oral suspension: 5 mL, four times daily

Moderate to Severe Cases:

• Fluconazole: 200 mg initially, followed by 100 mg daily for 7-14 days

Resistant Cases:

• Itraconazole oral solution: 200 mg daily for 28 days
• Posaconazole suspension: 400 mg twice daily for 3 days, then 400 mg once daily for 28 days
• Voriconazole: 200 mg twice daily for 28 days

How long does it take for oral thrush treatment to work? Most people start to see improvement within a few days of starting treatment, but it’s crucial to complete the full course of medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Home Remedies and Preventive Measures

While medical treatment is often necessary, some home remedies and preventive measures can help manage oral thrush and reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Rinse your mouth with saltwater
• Use a soft toothbrush to avoid irritating the affected areas
• Replace your toothbrush daily until the infection clears
• Consume unsweetened yogurt to promote healthy bacteria growth
• Avoid mouthwashes and sprays that may irritate the mouth

Are these home remedies as effective as medical treatments? While they can provide some relief and support healing, home remedies should not replace prescribed antifungal medications for treating oral thrush.

Oral Thrush in Special Populations

Oral Thrush in Babies

Infants are particularly susceptible to oral thrush due to their developing immune systems. The infection often appears as white patches on the tongue and inner cheeks, resembling milk residue but not easily wiped away.

How is oral thrush in babies treated? Treatment typically involves applying an antifungal gel or liquid directly to the affected areas. In some cases, the infection may clear on its own, but it’s essential to consult a pediatrician for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Oral Thrush in Denture Wearers

Individuals who wear dentures are at increased risk of developing oral thrush, particularly if they have poor oral hygiene or leave their dentures in overnight. The infection often manifests as red, swollen areas under the dentures.

What steps can denture wearers take to prevent oral thrush? Regular cleaning of dentures, removing them at night, and maintaining good oral hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While oral thrush is generally not serious in healthy individuals, certain situations warrant prompt medical attention:

• Symptoms persisting for more than two weeks
• Difficulty swallowing or pain that interferes with eating and drinking
• Fever or other signs of systemic infection
• Recurrent episodes of oral thrush
• Weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or cancer treatments

How quickly should you see a doctor if you suspect oral thrush? If you’re experiencing symptoms or are in a high-risk group, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider within a few days for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing Oral Thrush: Tips for Maintaining Oral Health

Prevention is often easier than treatment when it comes to oral thrush. Here are some strategies to reduce your risk of developing this fungal infection:

• Practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing
• Rinse your mouth after using corticosteroid inhalers
• Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
• Limit sugar and yeast-containing foods in your diet
• Quit smoking, as it can increase the risk of oral thrush
• Replace your toothbrush regularly, especially after an oral thrush infection

Can dietary changes help prevent oral thrush? While there’s no specific “anti-thrush” diet, maintaining a balanced diet low in sugar and rich in probiotics may help support overall oral health and reduce the risk of fungal overgrowth.

The Impact of Oral Thrush on Quality of Life

Although oral thrush is generally not life-threatening, it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. The discomfort and potential embarrassment associated with the condition can affect eating, speaking, and social interactions.

How does oral thrush affect daily activities? Depending on the severity, individuals may experience:

• Difficulty eating certain foods due to mouth soreness
• Changes in taste perception
• Discomfort while speaking
• Self-consciousness about visible symptoms

Understanding these potential impacts emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment to minimize disruption to daily life.

Oral Thrush and Systemic Health

While oral thrush is primarily a localized infection, it can sometimes be an indicator of underlying health issues. In some cases, recurrent or persistent oral thrush may signal:

• A weakened immune system
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Certain medications affecting oral flora

Can oral thrush spread to other parts of the body? In individuals with severely compromised immune systems, Candida infections can potentially spread to other areas, including the esophagus, lungs, or bloodstream. However, this is rare in healthy individuals.

Advances in Oral Thrush Research and Treatment

The field of oral health continues to evolve, bringing new insights into the prevention and treatment of conditions like oral thrush. Recent areas of research include:

• Development of new antifungal medications with fewer side effects
• Exploration of probiotics as a preventive measure against Candida overgrowth
• Investigation of natural compounds with antifungal properties
• Improved diagnostic techniques for faster, more accurate identification of Candida species

What future developments can we expect in oral thrush treatment? While it’s difficult to predict specific breakthroughs, ongoing research aims to provide more targeted, effective treatments with fewer side effects and reduced risk of antifungal resistance.

Oral Thrush in the Context of Global Health

Oral thrush is a global health concern, affecting individuals across different regions and demographics. However, its prevalence and impact can vary based on factors such as:

• Access to healthcare and oral hygiene education
• Prevalence of HIV/AIDS and other immunocompromising conditions
• Availability of antifungal medications
• Cultural practices related to oral care

How does the global approach to oral thrush differ? While the fundamental principles of diagnosis and treatment remain similar worldwide, strategies for prevention and management may need to be adapted to local contexts, considering factors like resource availability and cultural norms.

The Role of Dental Professionals in Managing Oral Thrush

Dentists and dental hygienists play a crucial role in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of oral thrush. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting regular oral examinations to detect early signs of thrush
• Providing patient education on oral hygiene and thrush prevention
• Collaborating with other healthcare providers for comprehensive patient care
• Recommending appropriate treatments or referrals when necessary

How often should you visit a dental professional for oral health check-ups? Most dental experts recommend routine check-ups every six months, but individuals at higher risk for oral thrush may benefit from more frequent visits.

Navigating Oral Thrush: Patient Experiences and Coping Strategies

Living with oral thrush can be challenging, but many individuals successfully manage the condition and maintain good oral health. Some coping strategies shared by patients include:

• Keeping a symptom diary to track flare-ups and identify potential triggers
• Using sugar-free lozenges or gum to stimulate saliva production and relieve dry mouth
• Exploring stress-reduction techniques, as stress can sometimes exacerbate symptoms
• Joining support groups or online communities to share experiences and tips

What advice do patients with recurrent oral thrush have for others? Many emphasize the importance of persistence in treatment, open communication with healthcare providers, and a proactive approach to oral hygiene and overall health.

In conclusion, oral thrush is a common fungal infection that, while generally not serious, can cause significant discomfort and impact quality of life. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options empowers individuals to take control of their oral health. With proper care, prevention strategies, and timely medical intervention when necessary, most people can effectively manage oral thrush and maintain healthy mouths.

Treatments, symptoms, pictures, and contagiousness

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a yeast infection that can affect the mouth. Symptoms include a white or yellow buildup on the tongue, an unpleasant taste, and discomfort. Home and medical remedies can treat it.

Oral thrush most commonly occurs due to the fungus Candida albicans. However, the following can also cause the infection:

• Candida glabrata
• Candida tropicalis
• Candida krusei

For the majority of individuals, oral thrush does not cause any serious problems. However, if a person has a weakened immune system, their signs and symptoms may be much more severe.

This article will cover all aspects of oral thrush, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Doctors will usually prescribe anti-fungal medications, such as nystatin or miconazole, in the form of drops, gel, or lozenges.

Alternatively, a doctor may prescribe a topical oral suspension. To take this treatment, a person washes it around their mouth for a few minutes and then swallows or spits out the solution (depending on the formulation).

According to a 2021 article, a healthcare professional will prescribe the following treatment options based on the severity of the condition:

• Mild oral thrush: A doctor may prescribe 10 milligrams (mg) of clotrimazole troche five times a day. A clotrimazole troche is a lozenge that a person dissolves slowly in their mouth. Another option includes 5 milliliters of nystatin oral suspension four times a day.
• Moderate to severe oral thrush: A doctor may prescribe 200mg of fluconazole once followed by 100mg once a day, for 7–14 days. A person will take this medication orally.
• Oral thrush that is not responding to treatment: Options include:
  • 200mg of Itraconzole oral solution once a day for 28 days
  • 400mg posaconzaole suspension twice a day for 3 days, followed by 400 mg once a day for 28 days
  • 200mg voriconazole twice a day for 28 days

For people who also have advanced cancer, a doctor may prescribe 150 mg of fluconazole as a single dose.

Alongside medical treatment, the following can help reduce the risk of worsening the condition:

• rinsing the mouth with salt water
• using a soft toothbrush to avoid scraping the lesions
• using a new toothbrush every day until the infection has gone
• eating unsweetened yogurt to restore healthy bacteria levels
• avoiding using mouthwashes or sprays

The National Health Service notes that the use of steroid inhalers, or corticosteroid inhalers, can increase the chance of developing oral thrush. A person can use a spacer or rinse their mouth after use to help prevent oral thrush from developing

Oral thrush in babies presents as a white coating on the tongue that resembles cottage cheese. A caregiver will not be able to rub the coating off easily. However, they will be able to scrape the coating off, leaving a red area.

Oral thrush in adults generally appears as thick, white, or cream-colored deposits on the mucous membrane of the mouth. The inside of the mouth may appear swollen and slightly red and may feature raised spots.

The white spots may join together to form larger ones, also known as plaques. These plaques may then take on a grayish or yellowish color.

Occasionally, the affected area simply becomes red and sore, with no detectable white spots.

If a person scrapes the cream or white-colored deposits, bleeding may occur.

Other symptoms include:

• cracks at the corners of the mouth
• an unpleasant taste
• pain, such as a sore tongue or gum
• difficulty eating or drinking

Individuals who wear dentures may have areas that are constantly red and swollen under their dentures. Poor oral hygiene or not taking the dentures out before going to sleep may increase the risk of oral thrush.

A 2015 reviewnotes that medical professionals sometimes divide oral thrush into three groups based on appearance, although the condition can sometimes sit between categories. The three groups are:

• Pseudomembranous: A person may develop white to whitish-yellow plaques on the tongue that resemble cottage cheese.
• Erythematous, or atrophic: The condition appears red raw rather than white.
• Hyperplastic: Also known as “plaque-like candidiasis” or “nodular candidiasis” due to the presence of a hard-to-remove, solid, white plaque. This is the least common variant and is most often present in patients with HIV.

There are a number of other lesions that can also appear with oral thrush. Sometimes, these lesions might be due to other types of bacteria that are also present in the area. These can include:

• Denture stomatitis: Healthcare professionals may also refer to this as chronic atrophic candidiasis and affects approximately 50–65% of those who wear dentures. The areas where the dentures normally sit may be inflammed. The lesions are usually asymptomatic, although a person may experience a burning sensation.
• Angular cheilitis: This is inflammation and splitting in the corners of the mouth.
• Median rhomboid glossitis: This is a large, red, painless mark in the center of the tongue.
• Linear gingival erythema: This is a band of inflammation running across the gums.
• Canker sores: These are small, shallow ulcers in the mouth.
• Leukoplakia: This is a white patch in the mouth that can appear on the tongue, gums, the inside of the cheeks, and the roof of the mouth. These patches are not painful and are irregular in shape. A person will not be able to remove the patches, unlike the patches that occur due to oral thrush.

Oral thrush is not contagious in adults.

However, thrush can pass between an infant and parent during breastfeeding or chestfeeding.

Some people may find oral thrush painful. The spots can become raised, and a person may experience discomfort and a burning sensation. In other instances, a person may develop no spots but experience a general soreness in the mouth.

If a person scrapes their spots, they may bleed and experience some mild pain.

Tiny quantities of Candida fungus exist in various parts of our body. It is present in the digestive system, skin, and mouth. Generally, these fungi cause no problems to healthy individuals.

However, people on certain medications, with reduced immune systems, or with certain medical conditions are susceptible to oral thrush when C. albicans grows out of control.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those under 1 month of age have a higher chance of developing oral thrush.

Adult oral thrush is more likely to become a problem for the following groups:

• Dentures: People who wear dentures are at a higher risk of developing oral thrush. Especially if they do not keep them clean, they own dentures that do not fit properly, or if the person does not take them out before going to sleep.
• Antibiotics: People who are on antibiotics have a higher risk of developing oral thrush. Antibiotics may destroy the bacteria that prevent the Candida from growing out of control.
• Steroid medication: Long-term use of steroid medication can increase the risk of oral thrush.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop oral thrush.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to have oral thrush, especially if they poorly control their disease.
• Dry mouth: People with less than normal quantities of saliva, or xerostomia are more prone to oral thrush.
• Smoking: Heavy smokers are more at risk of developing oral thrush. The reasons behind this are unclear.

Other risk factors include:

• Use of steroid inhalers: One 2016 study found that those who took inhaled corticosteroid or long-acting beta-2-agonist fixed-dose combination inhalers had a higher chance of developing oral thrush, compared with those who took long-acting bronchodilators alone.
• Malnutrition: A 2015 article states that a deficiency in iron the the most common nutrient linked to the growth of candida. Other nutritional deficiencies related to an increase of oral thrush risk include:
  • vitamin A
  • magnesium
  • selenium
  • zinc
  • folic acid
  • essential fatty acids
• Prolonged hospital stays: This can increase the chance of oral thrush in newborns.
• Cancer treatments: Chemoradiation therapy for head and neck cancer can lead to mucositis, which is when the mouth becomes sore and inflamed. A 2020 study notes that Candida infection is both a result of chemo-radiation mucositis and a risk factor.

The CDC states that the doctor can look into the person’s mouth and ask some questions about symptoms to diagnose oral thrush.

The doctor may scrape some tissue from the inside of the mouth for analysis.

If the doctor believes that medication or some other underlying cause is behind the thrush, then they will attempt to deal with it accordingly. Treatments in such cases depend on the underlying cause.

Oral thrush is a fungal infection that develops on the mucous membranes of the mouth.

Common symptoms of oral thrush include thick, white, or cream-colored spots on the mucous membrane. These spots may be raised and can cause some pain and discomfort,

For most people, oral thrush does not cause serious problems. However, people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms and a higher chance of the infection spreading into the bloodstream.

Doctors can treat oral thrush with anti-fungal drugs, such as nystatin or miconazole. They may also prescribe a topical oral suspension.

Some circumstances may increase a person’s risk of developing oral thrush. These include smoking, diabetes, the use of dentures, the use of antibiotics, and a weakened immune system.

Thrush in newborns Information | Mount Sinai

Candidiasis – oral – newborn; Oral thrush – newborn; Fungal infection – mouth – newborn; Candida – oral – newborn

Thrush is a yeast infection of the tongue and mouth. This common infection can be passed between a mother and baby during breastfeeding.

Causes

Certain germs normally live in our bodies. While most germs are harmless, some can cause infection.

Thrush occurs when too much of a yeast called Candida albicans grows in a baby’s mouth. Germs called bacteria and fungi naturally grow in our bodies. Our immune system helps keep these germs in check. But babies do not have fully-formed immune systems. That makes it easier for too much yeast (a type of fungus) to grow.

Thrush often occurs when mother or baby has taken antibiotics. Antibiotics treat infections from bacteria. They can also kill “good” bacteria, and this allows yeast to grow.

The yeast thrives in warm, moist areas. The baby’s mouth and the mother’s nipples are perfect places for a yeast infection.

Babies can also get a yeast infection on the diaper area at the same time. The yeast gets in the baby’s stool and can cause a diaper rash.

Symptoms

Symptoms of thrush in the baby include:

• White, velvety sores in the mouth and on the tongue
• Wiping the sores may cause bleeding
• Redness in the mouth
• Diaper rash
• Mood changes, such as being very fussy
• Refusing to nurse because of soreness

Some babies may not feel anything at all.

Symptoms of thrush in the mother include:

• Deep-pink, cracked, and sore nipples
• Tenderness and pain during and after nursing

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider can often diagnose thrush by looking at your baby’s mouth and tongue. The sores are easy to recognize.

Treatment

Your baby might not need any treatment. Thrush often goes away on its own in a few days.

Your provider may prescribe antifungal medicine to treat thrush. You paint this medicine on your baby’s mouth and tongue.

If you have a yeast infection on your nipples, your provider may recommend an over-the-counter or prescription antifungal cream. You put this on your nipples to treat the infection.

If both you and your baby have the infection, you both need to be treated at the same time. Otherwise, you can pass the infection back and forth.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Thrush in babies is very common and can easily be treated. Let your provider know if thrush keeps coming back. It may be a sign of another health issue.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if:

• Your baby has symptoms of thrush
• Your baby refuses to eat
• You have symptoms of a yeast infection on your nipples

Prevention

You may not be able to prevent thrush, but these steps may help:

• If you bottle feed your baby, clean and sterilize all equipment, including nipples.
• Clean and sterilize pacifiers and other toys that go in baby’s mouth.
• Change diapers often to help prevent yeast from causing diaper rash.
• Be sure to treat your nipples if you have a yeast infection.

Balest AL, Riley MM, O’Donnell B, Zarit JS. Neonatology. In: Zitelli BJ, McIntire SC, Nowalk AJ, Garrison J, eds. Zitelli and Davis’ Atlas of Pediatric Physical Diagnosis. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 2.

Harrison GJ. Approach to infections in the fetus and newborn. In: Cherry JD, Harrison GJ, Kaplan SL, Steinbach WJ, Hotez PJ, eds. Feigin and Cherry’s Textbook of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 66.

Last reviewed on: 12/12/2021

Reviewed by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Oral candidiasis: symptoms, features, diagnosis and treatment of the disease

Article content:

1. What is candidiasis?
2. Causes of oral candidiasis URL
3. Symptoms and features of the course of candidiasis in children
4. Symptoms of oral candidiasis in adults
5. Diagnosis of oral candidiasis
6. Treatment of candidiasis

The health of our body directly depends on the condition of the oral cavity. However, if you thought that only the integrity of the teeth affects the state of the oral cavity, this is not so. In addition to dental units, the oral mucosa has no less impact on human health, which is an ideal breeding ground for various bacteria that can both strengthen the immune system and adversely affect the general condition of the body, causing various diseases. One of these ailments is oral candidiasis, which has no age restrictions, and therefore occurs in people of any age.

What is candidiasis?

Oral candidiasis (thrush) is a white cheesy plaque on the oral mucosa caused by a unicellular fungus of the genus Candida. Ideally, this organism is present in a small amount among the beneficial microflora of the intestines, vagina, nasopharynx or on the skin of 70-80% of people. This state of affairs in medicine is considered the norm, since in small quantities this type of fungus is completely harmless. However, under the influence of certain factors, the acidic environment in the human body can become less concentrated, which will lead to an increase in the pH level and the reproduction of a fungus such as Candida.

Most often, oral candidiasis occurs in children and the elderly, who are forced to wear a denture, under which an ideal environment for the reproduction of the fungus is formed. Adults, whose immunity has weakened for one reason or another, also suffer from candidiasis.

Causes of thrush in the oral cavity

The following circumstances can serve as reasons for the appearance and development of candidiasis:

• Weakened immunity. These may be age-related changes or a deficiency of immune cells as a consequence of an illness.
• Pregnancy. In women who are in an “interesting” position, the hormonal background changes, which leads to metabolic disorders and a weakened immune system. As a result, the body turns into a favorable environment for the development of a harmful fungus.
• Taking antibiotics. Antibiotics destroy many representatives of beneficial microflora, and fungi resistant to its effects, on the contrary, begin to multiply.
• Radiotherapy (radiotherapy). Exposure to radioactive rays not only kills cancer cells, but also disrupts the microflora of the body.
• Wearing a denture. Under the design of the prosthesis, an ideal environment for the reproduction of harmful candidiasis organisms develops.
• Bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol and drugs).
• Microtrauma of the oral mucosa.
• Chronic dysbacteriosis. For some organisms, an imbalance in the representatives of the microflora is a common condition. In such patients, the disease may be mildly chronic.

Also among the factors that can cause the development of candidiasis, include some diseases that significantly weaken the immune system: tuberculosis, HIV, diseases of the digestive tract and adrenal glands.

Symptoms and features of the course of the disease in children

Children belong to the risk category, which is more susceptible to the “attack” of white Candida than adults. According to statistics, 20% of infants under the age of 1 year and 5% of newborn babies carry thrush, having become infected from the mother or from the staff of the maternity hospital. The reason for infection and active reproduction of the fungus is the immaturity of the oral mucosa, weak immunity, as well as the instability of the microflora, which is the norm for children of this age.

Fungus usually grows on the inside of a baby’s cheeks. But the tonsils, tongue, and pharynx may also be affected. As a rule, identifying thrush at an early stage in infants is quite difficult. A slightly reddened oral cavity, on which there is no sign of plaque, does not cause concern for mothers. However, after a few days, characteristic grains appear in the baby’s mouth, which in appearance resemble particles of semolina. If at this stage the treatment of oral candidiasis is not started, then small “semolina” dots will gradually turn into large curd-like lumps, and in some places into white films. Both those and other manifestations of the disease are easily removed with a sterile swab. After removing plaque, pink spots remain in place of lumps and films, and sometimes even droplets of blood appear.

If left untreated, the child’s mouth becomes covered with a uniform white coating that hides the inflamed mouth. The child becomes capricious, refuses food and breast. There may also be an increase in temperature up to 39C.

Symptoms of oral candidiasis in adults

Candidiasis in adults, like in children, does not appear immediately. Therefore, the symptoms of the disease at different stages will vary. However, with an increase in the number of bacteria on the surface of the mucosa, the signs of the disease become more and more obvious.

1. Slight redness, swelling and dry mouth. These are signs of the initial stage, when the fungus is just beginning to “conquer” the territory. Candida penetrate the cells and, releasing enzymes, dissolve the tissues of the mucosa. As a result, the patient experiences mild discomfort (it can also be more or less noticeable painful sensations).
2. Appearance of white cheesy plaque. First, small, barely noticeable white grains appear on the mucous surface of the cheeks, gums, palate or tongue, which subsequently turn into clearly visible lumps and merge together into white films. At this stage, the flakes are easily removed, and red spots with small drops of blood are found under them. Also at this stage, the patient may experience slight itching and burning.
3. Severe itching and burning. These symptoms of candidiasis indicate deep tissue damage and allergies, with which the body reacts to the release of enzymes by fungal organisms. At this stage, not only the mucous membranes of the cheeks, gums, tongue and palate can be affected, but also the pharynx and even the surface of the lips. Also at this stage, an increase in temperature and the appearance of mycotic seizures in the corners of the mouth are possible.

The most severe stage of candidiasis is the complete poisoning of the body with white candida enzymes, and, as a result, a significant weakening of the immune system. However, such severe manifestations are now extremely rare, since most patients seek to cure oral candidiasis, the symptoms of which do not yet indicate extreme stages.

Diagnosis of oral thrush

In order to confirm the diagnosis, the doctor performs a visual examination of the oral cavity and listens to the patient’s complaints. In addition, the patient will also have to pass some tests, which include:

• scraping from the outer mucosa;
• blood test for sugar;
• clinical blood test.

After receiving the results of the laboratory test, the doctor will be able to make the correct appointment. Indeed, often the disease is a side effect of diseases such as diabetes, leukemia and gastrointestinal diseases. Accordingly, without eliminating the listed diseases, you should not hope for getting rid of thrush.

Treatment of candidiasis

The treatment of the disease in each individual case will be prescribed on an individual basis. However, in any system there will be drugs such as:

1. Antimycotics (polyene antibiotics and imidazoles). They destroy candida not only on the surface of the oral mucosa, but also in other organs, contributing to the restoration of damaged tissues.
2. Vitamins (B2, B6, C and PP). Helps strengthen the immune system.
3. Calcium gluconate and iron. Calcium will reduce the manifestation of an allergic reaction, and the constant intake of new doses of iron into the body will restore the iron metabolism, which is disturbed due to the reproduction of candida.
4. Preparations for local action (iodine, lysozyme tablets, levorin ointment). Means have a local effect on the foci of thrush.
5. Rinsing solutions. These can be disinfectants and alkaline solutions that rinse your mouth every 2-3 hours.

It is also recommended to follow a diet during therapy, during which you should limit the amount of confectionery, spicy and sour foods, focusing on warm and semi-liquid dishes with a neutral taste.

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Candidiasis pathogens (C. albicans/ C. glabrata/ C. crusei/ C. parapsilosis, tropicalis), DNA quantification (oropharyngeal swab)

Mucosal candidiasis is an infectious an inflammatory process caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida on the mucous membranes. Oral candidiasis and genital candidiasis are of the greatest clinical importance.

Yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida (Candida spp.) are considered to be representatives of the normal mucosal microbiota of the human body. Indeed, they can be detected in about 60% of healthy adults in the oral cavity and in 12% of women in the vagina. Normally, yeast fungi are in equilibrium with the bacterial commensals of the mucous membranes and do not cause any inflammatory changes (“healthy carriage”). In some situations, however, the growth of yeast fungi increases, which is accompanied by a local infectious and inflammatory process – candidiasis, which is also known as “thrush”.

There are more than 150 species of candida, some of which are pathogenic for humans: C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. pseudotropicalis, C. krusei, C. parakrusei, C. parapsilosis, C. guillermondi. Candida albicans is the most common causative agent of the disease.

Mucosal candidiasis is very common. Risk factors for oral candidiasis are infancy and old age, the presence of severe diseases with immunodeficiency (especially leukemia, lymphoma, carcinomatosis and HIV), poor oral hygiene, Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes mellitus and other endocrinological diseases, wearing dentures, the use of inhaled and systemic glucocorticoids. Risk factors for genital candidiasis (vulvovaginitis) are less clear, but estrogen imbalance and antibiotic use have been suggested.

The clinical picture of mucosal candidiasis is quite characteristic (presence of crumbly white deposits against the background of hyperemia in pseudomembranous form of candidiasis), but it may resemble other diseases, primarily leukoplakia and lichen planus. For the differential diagnosis of these diseases, laboratory tests are carried out.

Given the high prevalence of “healthy carriers” of Candida, many people can be detected with a slight overgrowth of yeast-like fungi. In the absence of any clinical signs of candidiasis, such growth has no clinical significance. On the other hand, the abundance of yeast colonies (more than 104 CFU / ml) in a patient with minimal signs of candidiasis or without them at all, but with risk factors for this disease, should alert the doctor and may require the appointment of antimycotic drugs.

PCR analysis (polymerase chain reaction) is a modern diagnostic method based on the detection of unique DNA sequences characteristic only for a specific pathogen in the biological material under study. In the test material, specific DNA of the causative agent of thrush is found – varieties of the Candida fungus – C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis / C. tropicalis. Candida detection by PCR is the most objective and accurate among other research methods. High accuracy will necessarily show the presence of a fungus in the body, but this does not mean that it was he who caused the patient’s illness.

Given that sometimes mucosal candidiasis (primarily oral) is a symptom of a more serious condition, in some cases additional laboratory tests may be recommended, including blood glucose, thyroid, parathyroid, genital glands and adrenal glands, HIV analysis and immunological studies. A wider laboratory examination is also indicated in the presence of chronic candidiasis of the skin and mucous membranes. It should be noted that genital candidiasis is not among the sexually transmitted infections (STIs), therefore, if this disease is detected in a patient, an examination of his sexual partners is not indicated.

What is research used for?

For the diagnosis and treatment of mucosal candidiasis.
When is the test scheduled?

If there are signs of candidiasis of the mucous membranes: burning, soreness, itching, crumbly white coating on the background of hyperemia;
in the presence of risk factors for oral candidiasis: infancy and old age, severe diseases with immunodeficiency (leukemia, lymphomas, carcinomatosis and HIV), poor oral hygiene, Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes mellitus and other endocrinological diseases, wearing dentures, use of inhaled and systemic glucocorticoids.

It is desirable to take the material before diagnostic and therapeutic manipulations in the supposed location of the pathogen.
It is recommended to take biological material before starting the use of drugs (antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic). When conducting studies to control treatment, it is advisable to take samples for PCR tests no earlier than 10-14 days after the end of the use of the corresponding local drugs and no earlier than one month after systemic therapy.
When preparing the patient for the procedure, the following should be taken into account:
6 hours before the examination, it is not recommended to use drugs for irrigation of the oropharynx and preparations for resorption;
do not brush teeth or use chewing gum/lozenges to freshen breath before testing;
Rinse mouth with room temperature water before testing.
It is desirable to comply with all the conditions described, unless otherwise recommended by the attending physician.

Reference values: not detected.