Oropharyngeal candidiasis and oral yeast colonization in Iranian Human Immunodeficiency Virus positive patients

Abstract

Summary Objectives Oropharyngeal candidiasis is the most frequent fungal infection in HIV patients. The aims of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of oropharyngeal candidiasis and to determine the factors associated with oropharyngeal candidiasis and to appreciate the oral yeast colonization among Iranian HIV positive patients. Patients and methods One hundred and fifty Iranian HIV positive patients were examined. Oral samples were obtained and cultured on CHROMagar TM and Sabouraud's dextrose agar. TCD 4 lymphocyte count/percentage was measured and patients were categorized. Patients were evaluated for some risk factors of oropharyngeal candidiasis and oral Candida colonization. Results Sixty percent of patients presented an oropharyngeal candidiasis and the carriage rate of yeasts was 77.2%. The most frequent isolated Candida was Candida albicans 50.2% and Candida glabrata 22%. Patients were suffering from thrush (38%), perleche (20%), erythematous (4.7%), and esophagitis (12%). Significant difference in TCD 4 count, gender, antifungal therapy, smoking, and intravenous drug user, between patients with and without clinical sign was observed. No significant difference in oral colonization and oropharyngeal candidiasis between patients who received HAART and those who have not received it were observed. Conclusion Factors such as TCD 4 count, antifungal therapy, gender, smoking and intravenous drug users are important risk factors for oropharyngeal candidiasis in Iranian HIV positive patients. Denture wearing and age are predisposing factor for oral colonization.