Oral candidiasis

Oral candidiasis is an infection of the mouth by Candida yeasts, usually Candida albicans. It can cause white patches that wipe away and leave red, sometimes bleeding tissue.

Candida albicans: Candida albicans is a yeast species that commonly lives on human skin and mucous membranes and can cause candidiasis. It causes most cases of oral candidiasis.
Pseudomembranous candidiasis: Pseudomembranous candidiasis is a form of oral candidiasis marked by removable white plaques over inflamed mucosa. It is the classic presentation of oral thrush.
Immunosuppression: Immunosuppression is reduced activity of the immune system, caused by disease, medication, or other factors. Weak immune defenses increase the likelihood and severity of oral Candida infection.
HIV/AIDS: HIV/AIDS describes infection with human immunodeficiency virus and its advanced effects on immune function. Oral candidiasis can occur with impaired immunity and may be an indicator of advanced HIV disease.
Oral microbiome: The oral microbiome is the community of microorganisms living in the mouth and its associated habitats. Its balance can restrain or permit Candida overgrowth.
Erythematous candidiasis: Erythematous candidiasis is an oral Candida infection that appears as red, sore mucosa rather than white plaques. It shows why oral candidiasis is not always white.
Xerostomia: Xerostomia is the subjective sensation of dry mouth, often associated with reduced saliva production. Dry mouth can remove a natural barrier against Candida overgrowth.
Diabetes mellitus: Diabetes mellitus is a group of disorders characterized by chronic elevation of blood glucose. Poorly controlled diabetes is associated with greater risk of oral candidiasis.
Candida hypha: A Candida hypha is a branching, filamentous form of the fungus, associated with tissue invasion and virulence. The yeast can shift toward invasive filamentous growth in oral infection.
Angular cheilitis: Angular cheilitis is inflammation and cracking at the corners of the mouth, sometimes associated with Candida infection. Candida can contribute to this related oral condition.

Linked from 9 pages