oral thrush icd 10

2 min read 15-10-2024

Oral Thrush: Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a common fungal infection of the mouth caused by the Candida albicans fungus. This opportunistic organism normally lives in the mouth in small amounts but can overgrow and cause infection under certain conditions.

Symptoms of Oral Thrush

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to receive a proper diagnosis:

White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth that look like cottage cheese and can be scraped off, leaving a red, sore area underneath.
Redness, soreness, and pain in the mouth.
Difficulty swallowing or eating.
Cracked or dry lips.
Loss of taste.
A cottony feeling in the mouth.

Causes of Oral Thrush

Several factors can contribute to the development of oral thrush:

Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer treatments can suppress the immune system, making it easier for Candida albicans to overgrow.
Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can kill off beneficial bacteria in the mouth, allowing Candida albicans to thrive.
Dry mouth: Saliva helps to keep the mouth moist and prevents the growth of fungus. Conditions like dehydration, certain medications, or mouth breathing can lead to dry mouth and increase the risk of oral thrush.
Dentures: Poorly fitting dentures can create a moist, warm environment where Candida albicans can flourish.
Steroid inhalers: Inhaling steroids can increase the risk of developing oral thrush, especially if the mouth is not rinsed after use.

Diagnosis of Oral Thrush

Your doctor will likely diagnose oral thrush by examining your mouth and observing the characteristic white patches. In some cases, a swab of the affected area may be taken and sent to a lab for microscopic examination to confirm the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Code for Oral Thrush

The ICD-10 code for oral thrush is B37.0 – Candidiasis of oral cavity. This code is used for billing purposes and to track the prevalence of the infection.

Treatment of Oral Thrush

Treatment for oral thrush typically involves antifungal medications, which can be applied directly to the mouth or taken orally.

Topical Antifungal Medications: Nystatin, clotrimazole, and miconazole are common topical antifungals available in various forms like oral lozenges, oral suspensions, or creams.
Oral Antifungal Medications: Fluconazole and itraconazole are commonly prescribed oral antifungals for more severe cases of oral thrush.

The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the infection. It's crucial to complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve to prevent the infection from recurring.

Prevention of Oral Thrush

You can reduce your risk of developing oral thrush by following these tips:

Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day, and floss daily.
Avoid sharing utensils, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene items.
Use a mouthwash with antifungal properties.
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
Control your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
Keep dentures clean and properly fitted.
Rinse your mouth after using steroid inhalers.
See a doctor for regular check-ups, especially if you have a weakened immune system.

Note: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.

Sources:

"Oral Candidiasis (Thrush)" by Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/symptoms-causes/syc-20353659)
"Oral Candidiasis" by Medscape (https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1066657-overview)
"Oral Candidiasis (Thrush)" by NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/oral-thrush/)