Oral Candida Colonization Among Adults in Morocco: Prevalence and Risk Factors

Abstract

Candida is a commensal microorganism of the oral cavity and part of the normal microbial flora. Oral carriage of Candida can be influenced by several factors and may lead to the development of oral candidiasis. Oral swabs were collected from 46 onsultants at the stomatology department and then sent to the mycology laboratory for identification of isolates. The specimens were cultured on CandiSelect medium plates as well as on Sabouraud dextrose agar plates containing chloramphenicol. 38% of cultures were positive. Candida albicans was the most encountered specie (87.5% of positive cultures). Oral Candida colonization was more frequent in the following categories of patients: immunocompromised subjects, patients with malignancy, those undergoing chemotherapy, type 2 diabetics patients, smokers, and patients brushing their teeth irregularly (less than twice a day or occasionally). All of these associations were statistically significant. (p <0,05). The diagnosis of oral Candida carriage prior to the presentation of clinical symptoms could prevent patients at risk of serious complications. The promotion of oral health and hygiene education could help stop the spread of yeast colonization.