Clinical Characteristics and Management of Oral Candidiasis Associated with Calcinosis, Raynaud's Phenomenon, Esophageal Dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, and Telangiectasia Syndrome

Calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia (CREST) syndrome, a systemic sclerosis subtype, features skin thickening, vascular issues, and organ involvement, causing complications in the gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal systems. Herein, we present a rare case of oral candidiasis, with CREST syndrome. The patient presented with xerostomia, tongue erythema, and burning pain. The patient reported finger stiffness, facial sclerosis, cold-induced pain, and a 10-year history of palmar-plantar pustulosis. Laboratory tests confirmed antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and anticentromere antibodies (1:1280), leading to a diagnosis of CREST syndrome. A fungal culture identified <i>Candida albicans</i>, and treatment with miconazole gel successfully resolved the infection. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing oral manifestations in systemic autoimmune diseases, as conditions like xerostomia increase susceptibility to infections.