Mycology 3

Systemic mycoses

Caused by primary pathogens that originate primarily in the lungs and may spread to many organ systems.

Opportunistic mycoses

Occur mainly in patients with serious underlying diseases and compromised host defenses.

Histoplasmosis, aspergillosis, zygomycosis, cryptococcosis, torulopsosis

Examples of systemic mycoses.

Systemic candidiasis, cryptococcosis, aspergillosis, mucormycosis, penicilliosis

Examples of opportunistic mycoses.

Mycoses

Fungal infections that occur as a result of defects in the immune system.

Oral candidal infection

Usually involves a compromised host, and the compromise may be local or systemic.

Oral candidiasis

Generally a localized infection that rarely appears as a systemic fungal disease. Oral non-candidal fungal infections are usually signs of disseminated disease. These infections are becoming more prevalent and may present as primary oral lesions or oral manifestations of systemic mycoses.

Oral candidiasis

Also known as oral thrush, most commonly caused by Candida albicans, a normal component of the oral microflora in up to 30% of healthy patients (carriers). When conditions in the mouth allow Candida to overgrow, infection can develop.

Acute pseudomembranous candidiasis

Also known as thrush. Characterized by extensive white pseudomembranes consisting of desquamated epithelial cells, fibrin, and fungal hyphae. These white patches occur on the labial and buccal mucosa, hard and soft palate, tongue, periodontal tissues, and oropharynx.

Acute atrophic candidiasis

Usually associated with a burning sensation in the mouth or on the tongue. The tongue may appear bright red, similar to findings associated with low serum vitamin B12, low folate, and low ferritin.

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis

Also known as candidal leukoplakia. Characteristically occurs on the buccal mucosa or lateral border of the tongue as speckled or homogeneous white lesions. This condition can progress to severe dysplasia or malignancy.

Denture-induced candidiasis

Characterized by localized chronic erythema of tissues covered by dentures. Lesions usually occur on the palate and upper jaw but may also affect mandibular tissues.

Median rhomboid glossitis

A chronic, symmetrical area on the tongue anterior to the circumvallate papillae, consisting of atrophic filiform papillae.

Angular cheilitis

Also known as angular stomatitis. An erythematous fissure at one or both corners of the mouth, usually associated with an intraoral candidal infection. Other implicated organisms include Staphylococci and Streptococci.