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Inhaled corticosteroid oral candidiasis — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory TherapeuticsInhaled corticosteroid oral candidiasisGPhC CRA

A 42-year-old woman asks for treatment for oral thrush. She uses a high-dose inhaled corticosteroid, rarely uses a spacer and does not rinse after inhalation. She has white plaques that can be wiped away and no swallowing difficulty. What would you advise the patient?

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Correct answer: B — Use antifungal treatment if suitable and improve inhaler technique with mouth rinsing

Inhaled corticosteroids can predispose to oral candidiasis, especially with poor technique. Suitable antifungal treatment may be needed, but preventing recurrence requires spacer use where appropriate and mouth rinsing after doses. Dysphagia or systemic illness would require referral.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS