Pathology · single question
What is the most common fungal infection of the oral cavity?
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Correct answer: B. Candidiasis
Candida albicans (causing oral candidiasis) is by far the most common fungal infection encountered in the mouth. Aspergillosis, blastomycosis, and histoplasmosis can rarely present with oral lesions but are far less common, often associated with specific geographic exposure or significant immunosuppression.
- A. Blastomycosis can rarely involve the oral cavity but is not common.
- B. Candidiasis (Candida albicans) is by far the most common oral fungal infection, manifesting as pseudomembranous candidiasis (thrush), erythematous candidiasis, or angular cheilitis.
- C. Histoplasmosis can affect the oral cavity but is not the most common oral fungal infection.
- D. Aspergillosis is rare in the oral cavity and mainly affects immunocompromised patients systemically.