Mycotic stomatitis, pronounced /maɪˈkɒtɪk stəʊməˈtaɪtɪs/, is a medical condition that refers to an inflammation of the mouth caused by a fungal infection. The word "mycotic" comes from the Greek word "mykēs," meaning fungus, and "stomatitis" from "stoma," meaning mouth, and "-itis," meaning inflammation. The word "mycotic" is spelled with "c" instead of "k" because "c" is used after "i" and "e" to denote a "s" sound. The pronunciation of "stomatitis" is straightforward, with stress on the second syllable.
Mycotic stomatitis, also known as oral thrush or oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection that affects the mouth and throat. It is caused by the overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida albicans, which is commonly found in small amounts in the mouth, digestive tract, and skin. However, when the immune system is weakened or there is an imbalance in the oral microbial flora, Candida organisms can multiply rapidly, leading to an infection.
The condition primarily affects infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or individuals taking certain medications such as corticosteroids or antibiotics. Symptoms of mycotic stomatitis include the presence of creamy white or yellowish patches or plaques on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or throat. These patches may be painful and can bleed when scraped or brushed.
Risk factors for mycotic stomatitis include poor oral hygiene, wearing dentures, smoking, having diabetes, undergoing radiation therapy, or having certain medical conditions that compromise the immune system. The infection can be diagnosed through a physical examination and may require a microscopic analysis of oral swabs or a mouth culture for proper identification. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, such as nystatin or fluconazole, which can be administered topically or orally based on the severity of the infection.
Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing of teeth and tongue, using antimicrobial mouthwashes, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol, can help prevent mycotic stomatitis. Additionally, individuals at high risk should maintain a healthy immune system and manage any underlying medical conditions to reduce the risk of developing this fungal infection.
Thrush.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "mycotic stomatitis" is derived from two main components: "mycotic" and "stomatitis".
1. Mycotic: The term "mycotic" relates to fungi or fungal infections. It is derived from the Greek word "mykēs" meaning "fungus" or "mold".
2. Stomatitis: The term "stomatitis" refers to the inflammation of the mouth or oral cavity. It is derived from the Greek word "stoma" meaning "mouth" and the suffix "-itis" denoting "inflammation".
Therefore, "mycotic stomatitis" is a medical term used to describe an inflammatory condition of the mouth caused by a fungal infection.