Candidiasis

Patients with vulvovaginitis candidiasis commonly report intense genital itching, burning with urination, and a thick, white "cottage cheese" discharge. Other symptoms can include oral thrush with white patches in the mouth and soreness. Patients with compromised immunity may experience systemic signs like fever and chills, while laryngeal infection may present as dysphonia.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis presents with a dry, erythematous rash and thick discharge from the genitalia. Oral thrush appears as white or yellow, non-scrapable plaques on the tongue or mouth mucosa. Severe cases may involve leukoplastic lesions or, in systemic cases, signs of fever and hypotension. 

Antifungal Medications

Topical: For vulvovaginal infections, antifungal creams (e.g., clotrimazole, nystatin) applied over 1, 3, or 7 days are highly effective.

Oral: Fluconazole 150 mg is typically prescribed for single-dose therapy, but recurrent cases may require repeated dosing (Days 1, 4, 7) or long-term prophylaxis (weekly for six months).

Systemic Candidiasis

For severe cases like systemic candidiasis, systemic antifungals like caspofungin, fluconazole, or amphotericin B are indicated, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Management for Denture-Associated Cases

Patients with denture stomatitis should discontinue denture use for two weeks while applying topical antifungals. Probiotics are also beneficial as adjunct therapy.

Precautions for High-Risk Patients

Patients with obesity, diabetes, or those on immunosuppressive medications should be monitored closely, as these conditions increase recurrence and complications, such as intertrigo or bronchopulmonary candidiasis.