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Candida infection of a persistent palatal ulcer in a 20-month-old child
1Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, The Queen's University of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Insights
A persistent oral lesion in an infant, initially suspected as trauma and Candida infection, resolved completely with antifungal treatment and reduced bottle feeding. This case highlights effective management for pediatric oral lesions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Oral Pathology
- Mycology
Background:
- Infantile oral lesions can present diagnostic challenges.
- Persistent lesions require thorough evaluation for underlying causes.
- Candida infections can complicate oral mucosal conditions.
Observation:
- A 20-month-old infant presented with a 6-month history of a painless, aggressive-appearing hard palate lesion.
- The lesion measured approximately 2 cm, featuring raised edges, granulation tissue, and necrotic slough.
- Microscopic examination revealed a positive direct smear for Candida.
Findings:
- The lesion was diagnosed as a traumatized area with secondary Candida infection.
- Treatment involved antifungal therapy and minimizing oral irritation from feeding bottles.
- Complete healing of the lesion was achieved.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates a successful conservative management approach for pediatric oral lesions.
- Early diagnosis and targeted therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Minimizing iatrogenic trauma is an important consideration in infant oral care.
Abstract:
A 20 month-old infant presented with a painless, persistent lesion on the hard palate which had been present for 6 months. The lesion was aggressive in appearance, approximately 2 cm in diameter with raised, rolled edges, and there was what appeared to be granulation tissue present together with some necrotic slough in its base. It was considered to represent a traumatized area with superimposed secondary Candida infection. A direct smear of the lesion was positive for Candida. Antifungal therapy, and an attempt to avoid further irritation by advising the mother not to give the child a feeding bottle whenever possible, resulted in complete healing of the lesion. There has been no recurrence in 2 years.