What condition is known as oral candidiasis in newborns?

Oral candidiasis is commonly referred to as thrush, particularly in newborns. This condition is caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of fungus that is normally present in small amounts in the oral cavity but can proliferate under certain conditions, leading to noticeable white patches in the mouth and on the tongue.

In newborns, the immune system is not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections like thrush. Symptoms can include discomfort during feeding and difficulty eating. The presence of these white lesions distinguishes thrush from other conditions, as it is a fungal infection rather than a viral one, like herpes simplex, or a different kind of fungal issue such as fungal sinusitis.

Consequently, the term used to describe this condition among infants is specifically thrush, making it the most accurate choice in this context.