Antifungal Treatments and Oral Candida Management

Summary

Candida species, notably Candida albicans, represent a leading cause of oral mycoses, particularly in immunocompromised individuals and denture wearers. Conventional pharmacological interventions encompass polyenes, azoles and echinocandins, each targeting distinct aspects of fungal cell biology. However, therapeutic efficacy is challenged by drug resistance, subtherapeutic salivary concentrations and the protective nature of biofilms. Recent advances have explored combination regimens, synergistic natural compounds, novel topical formulations and optimised antiseptic protocols to enhance antifungal potency while mitigating adverse effects. Integration of targeted diagnostics and tailored oral hygiene measures underpins a comprehensive management strategy, with implications for reducing global morbidity and healthcare burden.

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Antifungal Treatments and Oral Candida Management publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in antifungal treatments and oral candida management across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC): The lowest concentration of an antifungal agent that prevents visible growth of a microorganism.

Biofilm: A structured community of microbial cells enclosed in a matrix, adhering to a surface and exhibiting increased resistance to antifungal agents.

Oxidative Stress: Cellular damage resulting from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defences.

Planktonic Cells: Individual, free-floating microbial cells as opposed to those within biofilms.

Antifungal Resistance: The ability of fungal organisms to survive and proliferate despite the presence of antifungal agents at therapeutic concentrations.

References

  1. Ascorbic Acid Enhances the Inhibitory Effect of Theasaponins against Candida albicans. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2024).
  2. In Vitro Assessment of Antifungal and Antibiofilm Efficacy of Commercial Mouthwashes against Candida albicans. Antibiotics (2024).
  3. Adaptation to Sodium Hypochlorite and Potassium Permanganate May Lead to Their Ineffectiveness Against Candida albicans. Pharmaceuticals (2024).
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