Antimicrobials as a contributory factor in oral candidosis--a brief overview

N S Soysa1, L P Samaranayake, A N B Ellepola

  • 1Division of Pharmacology, Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. niroshanis@pdn.ac.lk

Oral Diseases
|February 28, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Broad-spectrum antibiotics can increase the risk of oral candidosis, a common fungal infection. This review examines the link between antibiotic use and oral candidosis, exploring potential causes.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Opportunistic infections are increasing due to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and advances in therapies.
  • Oral candidosis is the most common human fungal infection.
  • Broad-spectrum antibiotics are frequently used for various conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review research on the relationship between antibiotic therapy and oral candidosis.
  • To explore potential mechanisms of pathogenicity following antibiotic treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing research findings.
  • Analysis of studies investigating antibiotic use and oral candidosis.

Main Results:

  • Antibiotic use is a significant predisposing factor for oral candidosis.
  • Specific mechanisms linking antibiotic therapy to fungal overgrowth are discussed.

Conclusions:

  • Antibiotic administration can lead to an increased incidence of oral candidosis.
  • Understanding these links is crucial for managing opportunistic infections in vulnerable populations.

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