This disease having several clinical presentations is mostly produced by the fungus Candida albicans (C.al.) but several other Candida species have been shown to cause oral candidiasis. C.al. is a regular saprophyte (commensal) organism in the oral cavity. Predisposing factors for the development of candidiasis are many, including: dentures, immuno supression as in AIDS, and transplant patients, cancer, autoimmune disorders, other forms of immunologic deficiencies, endocrine disturbances such as diabetes; xerostomia either as a consequence to radiation therapy or associated with Sjögrens syndrome. Some medications such as topical application of corticosteroids and systemic antibiotic therapy can be associated with the development of candidiasis. C.al. is aerobic, consequently it will produce superficial lesions but in severe cases, especially immuno-compromised patients, oral candidiasis may extend to the esophagus and upper respiratory tract, as well as the lungs. Candidiasis is an opportunistic infection and is found in more then 90% of patients that have had an illness associated with AIDS. Several studies have shown that oral candidiasis is a common first manifestation of HIV infection in patients which have been previously asymptomatic. The presence of oral candidiasis in young adults which do not have any of the aforementioned predisposing factors should arouse the suspicion of HIV infection.
Pseudomembranous candidiasis
Acute atrophic candidiasis
Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis
Angular cheilitis
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