Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Th17 Inflammation Model of Oropharyngeal Candidiasis in Immunodeficient Mice
Published on: February 18, 2015
[Trichomonosomycosis of the oral cavity]
A J Kurnatowska1, P Kurnatowski
1Zakład Stomatologii Zachowawczej Instytutu Stomatologii Lódź, ul. Pomorska.
Abstract:
Protozoa and fungi of the oral cavity, although frequently occuring and connected with considerable clinical adverse effects, are as yet insufficiently known. The aims of the study were to estimate the prevalence of common invasions of Trichomonas tenax and fungi, to associate the symptoms with the diagnosis of trichomonosis complicated by mycosis and to determine trichomonacidal properties of ornidazole, tinidazole and metronidazole. 936 dentist patients with different diagnoses were included into the study. The collected material consisted of rinsings, with simultaneous application of selective media, different for protozoa and for fungi 6ultures. Among the examined patients T. tenax was found in 90 cases including 85 cases where it occurred together with fungi (11 species), on the basis of which the diagnosis of trichomonosomycosis of the oral cavity was established. It was the most often in patients with leukoplakia and Lichen Wilsoni. We received a statistically significant association (0.001
Insights
Oral protozoa and fungi, like Trichomonas tenax, are common and linked to oral health issues. This study found T. tenax frequently co-occurs with fungi, particularly in patients with leukoplakia and Lichen Wilsoni.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Medical mycology
- Parasitology
Context:
- Oral protozoa and fungi are prevalent but understudied.
- Clinical adverse effects are associated with these microorganisms.
- Limited knowledge exists on their co-occurrence and impact.
Purpose:
- To determine the prevalence of Trichomonas tenax and oral fungi.
- To correlate symptoms with trichomonosis complicated by mycosis.
- To evaluate the efficacy of ornidazole, tinidazole, and metronidazole against T. tenax.
Summary:
- 936 dental patients were studied using selective media for protozoa and fungi.
- Trichomonas tenax was found in 90 patients, with 85 cases involving co-infection with 11 fungal species, diagnosing oral trichomonosomycosis.
- T. tenax was most prevalent in patients with leukoplakia and Lichen Wilsoni, and significantly associated with xerostomia, burning sensation, periodontal pockets, and denuded teeth.
Impact:
- Identified a significant association between T. tenax, fungi, and specific oral symptoms and conditions.
- Established the high prevalence of oral trichomonosomycosis, particularly in patients with leukoplakia and Lichen Wilsoni.
- Provides a basis for understanding oral microbial interactions and developing targeted treatments.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Oral Cavity
Teeth: The teeth are the hardest structures in our bodies. Humans have two sets of teeth throughout their lifetime: deciduous (baby) teeth and permanent teeth. Each tooth consists of several parts: the crown (visible part), the root (embedded in the jaw), enamel (hard outer...
The Oral Microbiota
Microbiota of the Respiratory Tract
Candidiasis
Trichomoniasis

