Oral fungal infections in the geriatric population of Municipal Health Centre for Older and Dependent Individuals, and participants of three-month rehabilitation programme — mycological study and clinical correlations

The aim was to analyse the results of the oral mycological examination and the relationship with selected parameters of the questionnaire and clinical examination. The study included 50 residents of the Municipal Health Centre for Older and Dependent Individuals and 30 participants in a three-month rehabilitation programme at the Daily Medical Care House. The study examined the following: type of prosthetic restorations, hygiene of removable dentures using the Ambjörnsen index, denture stomatitis according to Newton's classification, pathologies of the oral mucosa according to the classification of Górska and their localisation, mycological examination. Mycological examination was mostly positive (MHCOD 80%, DMCH 81%). The Ambjörnsen index indicated that 72% of residents with a positive mycological result had inadequate denture hygiene. The most frequently isolated fungal species were Candida albicans (89%) and Candida glabrata (39%). In 51% of the cases more than 1 fungal species was isolated. Fungal infection of the oral cavity often took place without ac- companying subjective symptoms and increased the risk of red lesions. Abundant and very abundant growth increased a risk of white lesions on the tongue. Senior patients are at an increased risk of developing oral fungal lesions. As infections often occur without subjective symptoms, it is important to include this group in systematic check-ups. Oral candidiasis is typically identified incidentally during routine examination or in instances of intense proliferation, manifesting as mucosal lesions. This emphasises the role of a detailed examination of the whole mouth. Because of the lack of adherence to proper hygiene is a risk factor for fungal infection, it is crucial to educate both seniors and care staff regarding proper oral hygiene.