EVALUATION OF CANDIDA ALBICANS COLONIZATION IN TYPE 2 DIABETIC PATIENTS IN BAGHDAD, IRAQ, USING EXFOLIATIVE CYTOLOGY, GRAM AND LACTOPHENOL COTTON BLUE STAINING

Background:Candida is a common commensal fungus found in the oral cavity of healthy individuals. However, various systemic and local factors associated with diabetes mellitus can increase the risk of oral candidiasis. The relationship between diabetes and enhanced Candida colonization has clinical significance, particularly for preventing secondary infections.
Objectives:To determine the prevalence and severity of oral Candida colonization in individuals with Type II diabetes
compared to healthy individuals, using exfoliative cytology and laboratory staining techniques.
Results:A total of 260 subjects aged 40–60 years were included, comprising 200 Type II diabetic patients and 60 healthy controls. A significant difference in Candida colonization was observed between diabetic and non-diabetic individuals (p = 0.009). In the diabetic group, only 3.5% of males and 4.5% of females showed no colonization. Candida colonization was present in 41.5% of diabetic males and 50.5% of diabetic females, indicating a significantly higher prevalence and severity compared to the control group. No significant sex-based differences were noted in the healthy subjects.
Conclusion:Individuals with Type II diabetes exhibit a higher level of Candida albicans colonization in the oral cavity
compared to non-diabetic individuals. Early identification and management of oral Candida in diabetic patients may
help prevent its progression to bloodstream invasion and subsequent involvement of the gastrointestinal mucosal lining.