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Abstract

International Journal of Trends in Emerging Research and Development, 2024;2(1):342-346

Oral fungal colonization and infection in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: A retrospective study

Author : Saba Usmani and Dr. Ashok Kumar

Abstract

Oral fungal colonization and infection represent significant complications in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy due to immunosuppression and mucosal barrier damage. This retrospective study aimed to assess the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and risk factors of oral fungal colonization and infection in patients receiving chemotherapy at a tertiary care center. Medical records of 300 cancer patients treated between 2019 and 2024 were reviewed. Data regarding demographic variables, type and duration of chemotherapy, oral fungal colonization status, clinical diagnosis of oral candidiasis, and related risk factors such as antibiotic use and oral hygiene were collected. The prevalence of oral fungal colonization was 45%, while clinical oral fungal infections were diagnosed in 28% of patients. Prolonged chemotherapy duration, use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and poor oral hygiene were significantly associated with increased risk of oral fungal infections. Early identification and management of oral fungal colonization and infection are essential to improve patient comfort, prevent systemic dissemination, and optimize chemotherapy outcomes. The study highlights the need for routine oral examinations and antifungal prophylaxis in high-risk cancer patients.

Keywords

Oral fungal colonization, Chemotherapy, Cancer patients, Oral candidiasis