Oral thrush is the whitish lesions in mouth caused by fungus candida. Also known as oral candidiasis.The lesions are whitish cheesy looking with reddish background. Mostly seen in upper surface of tongue, buccal cavity, gum and palate. Etiology may be due to immunosuppression, steroid use, anti-cancer treatment. It is frequently seen in newborn due to decreased immunity.
Fungal infections predominate in immuno-suppression leading to suppressed growth of healthy flora and proliferation of unwanted harmful micro-organism. This imbalance favours growth of most common fungal species candida albicans .
Symptoms…
Creamy or cheesy white lesions usually in tongue , palate ,inner throat. Pain during swallowing can complicate the existing lesions. Scrapping may cause bleeding.
Differential conditions…..
Geographic tongue – Geographic tongue also mimic the oral thrush. It is a benign condition presenting white patches with reddish islands migrating to other part of tongue. Usually heals and reappears and there is no permanent treatment.
Leukoplakia- These are adherent whitish plaques present on tongue, usually benign but sometimes can change to malignant conditions.
Aphthous ulcer– It is comparatively small in size present in tongue, inner side of cheek. Usually painful and resolves in few days to weeks.
Coated tongue– Due to unhygienic and non-cleansing of tongue a white layer may be seen over tongue resembling oral candidiasis.
Treatment– Treatment with anti-fungal like fluconazole, nystatin, itraconazole. But underlying cause should be treated.
