Definition of Oral Candidiasis

Candidiasis of the mouth and throat, also known as “thrush" or oropharyngeal candidiasis, is a fungal infection that occurs when there is overgrowth of a yeast called Candida. Candida yeasts normally live on the skin or mucous membranes in small amounts. However, if the environment inside the mouth or throat becomes imbalanced, the yeasts can multiply and cause symptoms. Candida overgrowth can also develop in the esophagus, and this is called Candida esophagitis, or esophageal candidiasis.