Candidiasis Oral candidiasis is extremely common in AIDS patients. The most common pathogen is Candidia albicans. C.glabrata, C.krusei and C.parapsilosis. It generally presents as burning pain, altered taste sensation and difficulty in swallowing liquids and solids. Painless white patches are found on the tounge, gums, buccal mucosa, tonsils and pharynx.
Oesophageal candidiasis is diagnosed when dysphagia is present with thrush.
Anti fungal therapy has to be given. Mild Oral candidiasis responds to topical application of clotrimazole or nystatin. Most of the patients need to be given Fluconazole 200mg on the first day followed by 100mg once daily for 7-14 days. Alternatively Itraconazole 100mg daily for 7-14 days may be used. The most common manifestation fo cryptococcosis is meningitis.