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Oral Candidiasis

Skin Disorders in Elderly Persons: Part 5, Fungal Infections (Oral Candidiasis)

NOAH S. SCHEINFELD, MD, JD

Volume 47 - Issue 6 - June 2007

thrush

Oral Candidiasis

Oral candidiasis, or thrush, is not uncommon in elderly persons. It can be related to poor dentition or immunosuppression, particularly as a result of oral corticosteroid use. Thrush appears as white plaques that overlie areas of erythema on the buccal, palatal, or oropharyngeal mucosa (Figure). In most patients, the white film can be easily removed, which may reveal small ulcerations.

 

 

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