Thrush

Thrush is seen as easily scrapable, dry whitish patches on the tongue and buccal mucosa produced by growth of monilia in the superficial layers of the mucous membrane. Bottle-fed babies are most commonly affected, the fungus being conveyed by unclean milk bottles and teats. Proper sterilization prevents the disease.

Thrush must be distinguished from curds which lie loosely on the surface of the mucous membrane. Thrush must also be distinguished from diphtheria and syphilitic mucous patches. In both these conditions, the membrane cannot be scraped easily without causing bleeding since it is firmly adherent. Besides, there are other stigmata, and the bacteriology is decisive.

In the napkin area, red, moist macules or areas, are produced with sodden epidermal edges. This is usually accompanied by monilial gastro-enteritis and thrush. Diaper rash like dermatitis may also be seen. .

Superinfection of seborrhoeic and infective eczema by candidiasis, may also be seen. Granuloma gluteale infantum is diaper dermatitis complicated by fluorinated steroid creams promoting the proliferation of candida, more so because of plastic panties.

Lesions appear in the form of pea-sized violet nodules, firm and elastic, may be covered by fine scales. Lesions improve on removing the causes. Eczema like weeping or dry plaques of erythema with scaling may also be seen on the face and trunk.

Treatment of Thrush

Treatment is with 1% gentian violet in aqueous solution or nystatin cream or imidazole derivatives. Gastrointestinal lesions should be treated with oral Nystatin (P) tablets. Amphotericin-B lozenges are also useful.