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Dentinal candidiasis in cancer patients.
D D Damm1, B W Neville, R H Geissler
1Department of Oral Pathology, College of Dentistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington.
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Oropharyngeal candidiasis can present unusually in cancer patients, affecting tooth dentin. Early recognition of this fungal infection is crucial for managing cancer patient health.
Area of Science:
- Oral pathology
- Mycology
- Oncology
Background:
- Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) is a common opportunistic infection, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy are at increased risk for OPC due to altered immune status.
Observation:
- This study presents two cases of unusual oropharyngeal candidiasis presentation in cancer patients.
- The candidiasis involved the dentin of the teeth, a rare site of fungal colonization.
Findings:
- Light and scanning electron microscopy were used to detail the microscopic features of candidiasis invading tooth dentin.
- Morphological analysis revealed fungal hyphae penetrating the dentinal tubules.
Implications:
- Recognizing this unusual presentation of OPC in cancer patients is vital for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Understanding the interaction between Candida species and dental structures can inform supportive care strategies for oncology patients.