Introduction

Oral candidiasis, also known as oral candidosis or oral thrush, is an opportunistic infection of the oral cavity caused by the Candida species.1 It is a common fungal infection of the oral cavity.2 There are a variety of clinical presentations. It is often regarded as the ‘disease of the diseased’,3–5 highlighting the opportunistic nature of the infection. Management is with antifungal medicines, however addressing any underlying or contributing factors is key to best care.

Learning objectives

After successful completion of this CPD activity, pharmacists should be able to:

  • Describe the presenting symptoms and management of oral candidiasis
  • Discuss differential diagnoses and when referral is required for presentations of oral candidiasis
  • Explain how pharmacists can translate knowledge into practice when managing patients with oral candidiasis.

Competency standards (2016) addressed: 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 2.3, 3.2, 3.5

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The Candida spp. are the most common fungal pathogens isolated from the oral cavity and can be found in a large percentage of the population.6 C. albicans is isolated most frequently.6 Oral carriage of Candida spp. is generally asymptomatic and occurs in 35–80% of healthy individuals.7 Those with active carious lesions involving their dentition and people who smoke have been found to have higher carriage of oral Candida.10 Th

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