Oropharyngeal candidiasis

Oropharyngeal candidiasis, commonly called thrush, is a fungal infection of the mouth and tongue in which Candida, most often Candida albicans, overgrows on the mucosa. It affects both sexes equally, is frequent in newborns and older adults, and is commoner with weakened immunity. Risk factors include HIV infection, chemotherapy, long-term steroid use including inhalers, diabetes with high blood sugar, antibiotic treatment, poorly fitting dentures and reduced salivary flow. Typical findings are white, velvety patches that wipe off to leave a red surface, sometimes with bleeding or painful swallowing, and in weakened hosts it can spread to the oesophagus. Diagnosis is usually clinical, with scrapings examined under a microscope or cultured when needed. Treatment is topical antifungals such as nystatin, with oral azoles such as fluconazole kept for severe or resistant cases, alongside oral hygiene and control of predisposing conditions.

Seek urgent care for a high fever with a stiff neck, rash, confusion, difficulty breathing, or fever after travel to a malaria area. See a doctor when a fever lasts more than three days, when symptoms return after treatment, or when you may have been exposed to an infection that needs testing. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.