Effect of cannabis use on oral candidal carriage

Abstract

The effects of cigarette smoking on oral candidal carriage and candidosis have been well documented but few similar studies on cannabis smoking have appeared, therefore it was felt that such a study needed to be undertaken. In this investigation, the effect of cannabis smoking combined with methaqualone and tobacco on candidal prevalence, density and candidosis was examined in 55 users. Age and sex matched tobacco-smoking (n = 58) and non-smoking controls (n = 50) were examined similarly. The imprint culture technique was used for harvesting Candida. Results showed an increased prevalence and density of C. albicans in cannabis users while there was no apparent difference in the prevalence of candidiasis. However, two subjects presented with oral multifocal candidiasis.