Oral candidiasis in patients with a compromised immune system — such as those living with HIV or undergoing cancer treatment — requires a more aggressive treatment strategy than is used in otherwise healthy individuals. Standard local measures are often insufficient in this population.
This protocol addresses oral candidiasis occurring in the context of an immunocompromised state, specifically including patients with HIV infection or cancer. In these individuals, immune deficiency undermines the body's ability to contain mucosal fungal infection, and local or topical approaches alone may not be adequate to resolve the condition.
Management in this setting centres on systemic antifungal therapy with fluconazole given orally — administered at a higher dose than would be used in immunocompetent patients. The precise dosing regimen, including the exact elevation and duration, is set out in the full protocol.