Kissing also has been implicated. C albicans frequently and asymptomatically inhabits the GI tract of many children and adults, and the GI tract has been implicated as a reservoir for yeast contamination of the perineum. Thus, candidal diaper rash frequently occurs in conjunction with thrush. Consider the possibility of an underlying immunodeficiency when thrush occurs after early infancy and without a reasonable explanation. Thrush can occur, however, at any age in predisposed patients.
Parents usually notice a white coating in the child's mouth.
Infants may have trouble feeding in severe cases. Medical history Recent antibiotic or steroid use may suggest a predisposing cause. Diarrhea, rashes, failure to thrive, hepatosplenomegaly, or repeated infections suggest an underlying immunodeficiency. Maternal history Vaginal candidiasis is a source of perinatal exposure to infection. HIV status may provide a clue to a predisposing factor.