Etiology- caused by species of Candida, usually albicans , which is a yeast- like fungus. Most patients harbor yeasts, a variety of predisposing factors are present that appear to alter the oral environment or systemic status of the host and allow an opportunity for the organism to grow, spectrum antibiotic therapy Systemic, topical, or aerosolized corticosteroid, Smoking, Xerostomia, Immune system disorders, and diabetes
Characteristics- Acute pseudomembranous candidiasis manifests as multiple, raised, whitish, cordlike plaques with variable surrounding erythema. The plaques are always multiple, and it is not unusual for large areas of the oral mucosa to be affected. Because it represents an infection, patients are almost always symptomatic and complain of pain, discom fort, or burning. The plaques can be scrapped off with a tongue blade or stiff instrument. Most often, you will see erythema because with out the dead plaque covering it, the inflammation in the underlying tissues, representing the body's reaction to the infection
Dental implications- Candidiasis is an infection that needs to be diagnosed and treated. The tendency for this infection to occur in immunocompromised patients should prompt the dental professional to carefully review the patient's medical history for any sign of undiagnosed systemic problems
Treatment- antifungal medications are used for treatment. Many clinicians treat the infection with topical medications such as nystatin oral suspension or clotrimazole troches . Effective systemic medication is also available
Prognosis- after treatment lesions should heal