How to Determine Whether It Is Thrush

Oral thrush—also known as “snow mouth disease” or “candidiasis”—is a common fungal infection of the oral cavity in children. Diagnosis is primarily based on predisposing factors, clinical manifestations, and response to treatment. It is caused by Candida albicans and commonly occurs in individuals with compromised immunity, including infants and children receiving prolonged immunosuppressive therapy or corticosteroids, as well as pregnant women and elderly individuals with weakened immune function. Clinically, it presents as diffuse, variably sized, white, curd-like pseudomembranes adhering to the oral mucosa, tongue, pharynx, and gingiva. In severe cases, the lesions resemble cottage cheese. The surrounding mucosa shows no erythema, vesicles, or tenderness; feeding remains unaffected, and the plaques are difficult to wipe off. Antifungal medications and measures to alkalinize the oral environment facilitate healing.

However, definitive diagnosis of oral thrush requires prompt evaluation by a qualified dentist or oral medicine specialist at an accredited hospital. A fungal scraping test should be performed: if hyphae are observed under microscopic examination of the scraped specimen, the diagnosis of oral thrush is confirmed.

If a child develops oral thrush, irritability and refusal to feed are common. Oral rinsing with sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) solution may be used; alternatively, caregivers may gently apply the solution to affected white lesions using a cotton swab. Topical antifungal ointments applied directly to the lesions can also help suppress fungal growth.