PHARMACOLOGICAL STRATEGIES AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT IN THE TREATMENT OF ORAL CANDIDIASIS

Abstract

Oral candidiasis is an opportunistic infection mainly caused by Candida albicans, a fungus present in the oral microbiota that can become pathogenic in situations of immunosuppression and local imbalance. This literature review aimed to address the main aspects related to the pathogenesis, predisposing factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of oral candidiasis, as well as the relationship between immunity and opportunistic fungal infections. It was observed that factors such as prolonged use of antibiotics and corticosteroids, immunosuppressive diseases, use of dental prostheses, and inadequate oral hygiene favor the development of the infection. Nystatin remains one of the main therapeutic options due to its efficacy and low cost, although new therapeutic and immunomodulatory approaches are being studied. It is concluded that understanding the interactions between fungus, host, and microbiota is fundamental for early diagnosis, adequate treatment, and the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.