Classification and clinical manifestations of oral yeast infections

Area of Science:

• Oral medicine
• Mycology
• Infectious diseases

Background:

• Traditional oral candidosis classification includes acute pseudomembranous (thrush), acute atrophic, chronic atrophic, and chronic hyperplastic types.
• Existing classifications have limitations, such as pseudomembranous candidosis not always being acute and the term 'atrophic' being of limited value for erythematous areas.
• Some oral candidosis types are linked to conditions with combined bacterial/mycologic origins, necessitating a more comprehensive classification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise the classification of oral candidosis based on clinical terminology and identified forms.
• To incorporate findings from previous studies on multifocal oral candidosis, including erythematous, plaque-like, and nodular presentations.
• To propose a revised classification that better reflects the clinical spectrum and associated lesions of oral candidosis.

Main Methods:

• Review and critique of traditional oral candidosis classification systems.
• Consideration of clinical observations and terminology, including multifocal presentations.
• Development of a revised classification incorporating acute, chronic, and Candida-associated lesions.

Main Results:

• Proposed revised classification includes acute types: pseudomembranous and erythematous.
• Proposed revised classification includes chronic types: pseudomembranous, erythematous, plaque-like, and nodular.
• Identified Candida-associated lesions: denture stomatitis, angular cheilitis, and median rhomboid glossitis.

Conclusions:

• The revised classification offers a more clinically relevant framework for oral candidosis.
• The proposed categories better describe the diverse presentations of oral candidosis.
• This revision aids in understanding and managing various forms of oral candidosis and associated conditions.