Antifungal Therapy - 1
Parotid saliva contains peptides that have demonstrated antifungal properties against Candida albicans.51 Fungal infections occur as a result of alterations in oral flora, use of antibiotics, immunosuppression, and underlying systemic diseases, such as diabetes. These opportunistic infections are often seen in clients undergoing cancer chemotherapy and those with HIV disease. Fungal infections are especially common among clients with chronic xerostomia.
Fungal infections typically present as a white pseudomembrane overlying bright red tissues, although they may also be erythematous or hyperplastic in appearance.23These patches of candidiasis may be seen on any mucosal surface, although the palatal mucosa and dorsum of the tongue seem to be highly vulnerable.9, 14 The tongue is often red, fissured and sore.52 Angular cheilitis is often present as well.23 Clients who have partial facial paralysis from stroke or those with a loss of vertical dimension from missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures, frequently present with angular chelitis caused by fungal organisms in saliva that collects at the corners of the mouth.
