Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis of the tongue: A lesion with dysplastic changes

Abstract

Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis (CHC) is an oral fungal infection produced by C. albicans specie. It occurs in the oral mucosa of immunocompetent persons and presents as a white plaque that cannot be detached upon rasping. Due to this feature, can be confused with leukoplakia, a potentially malignant lesion related to the development of squamous cell carcinoma. The diagnosis is established by biopsy that allows identifying hifas and blastospores of candida invading the epithelium and inducing alterations in the cell proliferation and differentiation of this tissue. The clinical features and probable etiology agent of a case of CHC located in the dorsum of the tongue diagnosed in a 54-years- old male are presented. Histological demonstration of the fungus in the different layers of the epithelium and the alterations induced in the cell proliferation and differentiation of this tissue are discussed. Treatment was based on the correction of the etiologic factor, mechanical elimination of the mycotic plaque and use of antifungal medication. Due to their clinical characteristics, CHC can be confused with the oral potentially malignant lesion called leukoplakia. Biopsy of the lesion is absolutely necessary to establish the diagnosis, to identify dysplastic changes and therefore avoid over treatment.