Anatomy and Physiology for Multiple Organ Systems Practice Test 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Fungal infection on the tongue is thrush, or oral candidiasis, caused by overgrowth of Candida species such as Candida albicans. It typically presents as white, creamy plaques on the tongue and oral mucosa that may be scraped away to reveal a red, sometimes irritated surface. It can occur after antibiotic use, in diabetes, with immune suppression, in denture wearers, or in infants, and is treated with antifungal medications like topical nystatin or systemic fluconazole depending on severity.

Leukoplakia is a non-infectious white patch that cannot be wiped away and is not caused by a fungus; gingivitis is inflammation of the gums due to plaque; oral cancer is a malignant growth. Therefore thrush is the term that describes a fungal infection on the tongue.