Oropharyngeal candidiasis is a common mucosal infection affecting the mouth and throat. It occurs when Candida fungi, primarily Candida albicans, which are naturally present, overgrow.
Understanding How It Develops
Oropharyngeal candidiasis develops when Candida fungi, typically harmless inhabitants of the mouth, multiply excessively. Various factors can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms, allowing Candida to flourish. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV infection, undergoing cancer treatment, or organ transplant recipients, are more susceptible.
Broad-spectrum antibiotics can alter oral flora, creating an environment conducive to Candida overgrowth. Corticosteroid use, particularly inhaled steroids, also increases risk. Other contributing factors include diabetes, wearing dentures, dry mouth, infancy, and old age.
Identifying the Signs
Oropharyngeal candidiasis often manifests as creamy white lesions inside the mouth and throat. These distinctive patches typically appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, and tonsils. Gently scraping these white lesions may cause slight bleeding.
Additional symptoms include redness or soreness within the mouth and throat, leading to discomfort. Eating or swallowing might become painful, and some report a “cottony” sensation in their mouth. A diminished sense of taste is also a common complaint.
Confirming and Treating the Infection
Diagnosing oropharyngeal candidiasis typically begins with a thorough visual examination by a healthcare professional. The characteristic white lesions aid initial identification. To confirm Candida fungi, a doctor may take a small scraping from a lesion for microscopic examination.
Treatment involves antifungal medications, chosen based on severity. For mild cases, topical antifungals like nystatin mouth rinses or clotrimazole lozenges are applied directly to affected areas.
More severe or persistent infections may require systemic oral antifungals, such as fluconazole. This medication is absorbed into the bloodstream, combating the fungus throughout the body. Treating underlying health conditions that predispose individuals to candidiasis is also important for managing the infection and preventing recurrence.
Steps to Avoid Oropharyngeal Candidiasis
Consistent oral hygiene helps prevent oropharyngeal candidiasis. This involves regular brushing of teeth and thorough cleaning of dentures to reduce fungal accumulation. For those using inhaled corticosteroids, rinsing the mouth with water after each use can significantly lower infection risk.
Managing existing health conditions, such as diabetes, is beneficial, as uncontrolled blood sugar levels can promote fungal growth. Limiting unnecessary broad-spectrum antibiotics helps preserve the natural bacterial balance in the mouth.