Oral fungal colonization and oral candidiasis in renal transplant patients: the relationship to Miswak use.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine and compare the prevalence of oral candidal colonization and oral candidiasis in a group of medically stable renal transplant patients (RTPs) and age and sex-matched healthy control (HC) subjects.

Study Design: The oral cavities of 58 RTPs and 52 HC subjects were clinically examined for the presence of oral candidiasis. Oral fungal colonization was determined by using the concentrated oral rinse technique.

Results: Prevalence of oral fungal colonization was not significantly higher in RTPs than in HC subjects (74.1% vs 59.6%, respectively; P =.1), but the density of growth was significantly higher in RTPs (P <.0017). Oral candidiasis was diagnosed in 15.5% of RTPs but in none of HC subjects (P =.002). RTPs who used a chewing stick (Miswak: Salvadora persica ) for oral hygiene had a significantly lower prevalence of oral candidiasis (P =.04) compared with other RTPs.

Conclusions: RTPs are at high risk of developing oral candidiasis. More clinical investigations are needed to determine the antimycotic effect of Miswak. Regular oral screening is recommended for RTPs.