[Is there any relation between type 1 halitosis and oral candida colonisation?]

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Microbiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Pathologic halitosis is classified into five types, with oral halitosis often linked to anaerobic bacteria.
• The role of Candida in halitosis remains inadequately investigated despite anecdotal claims.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between Candida presence and oral halitosis.
• To evaluate the diagnostic utility of a cysteine challenge test for halitosis.

Main Methods:

• 136 subjects (69 halitosis patients, 67 controls) were assessed for halitosis, Candida colony counts, and oral gas concentrations (NH3, SO2, H2S, H2, volatile organic gases).
• A cysteine challenge test quantified H2S-producing capacity.
• Candida albicans isolates were cultured, and headspace gas concentrations were measured.

Main Results:

• Candida positivity rates were similar between halitosis patients (44.9%) and controls (46.3%), with no statistically significant difference (p=0.561).
• Oral gas concentrations were comparable between groups.
• The cysteine challenge test showed a significantly higher H2S increase in halitosis patients (9.65-fold) compared to controls (5.8-fold).
• Self-assessed halitosis scores correlated well with clinical signs (p=0.001, r=0.8).

Conclusions:

• No direct relationship was detected between Candida presence and oral halitosis.
• Candida-focused diets are not indicated for halitosis treatment.
• The cysteine challenge test is a potentially useful diagnostic tool for halitosis.
• Portable gas detectors can serve as practical halitometers.