(thrŭsh )

Infection of the mucosa of the mouth caused by Cand ida albicans. In patients with healthy immune systems, it occurs when the balance of normal flora is destroyed during antibiotic therapy or after the use of corticosteroid-based inhalers, which suppress normal white blood cell function in the mouth. It is also common in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy for organ transplants, in cancer patients, and in those with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, in whom oral cand ida infection may be chronic. Occasionally, healthy neonates and persons who wear dentures develop thrush.

Examination reveals white, raised, creamy, easily removable patches on the tongue and other oral mucosal surfaces. The organism is identified by a microscopic examination of scrapings. The infection is treated with a single dose of fluconazole, with clotrimazole lozenges, or with a nystatin oral solution (which must be held in the mouth for 3 min before swallowing) for 14 days; long-term suppressive therapy may be needed for patients with impaired immunity. Dentures should be soaked in an antifungal solution of nystatin. Careful hand washing is essential before doing oral care.

SYN: cand idosis; oropharyngeal cand idiasis; pseudomembranous cand idiasis.

SEE: aphtha; cand idiasis; stomatitis; illus..