Clinical Characteristics and Management of Oral Candidiasis Associated with Calcinosis, Raynaud's Phenomenon, Esophageal Dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, and Telangiectasia Syndrome

Calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia (CREST) syndrome, a systemic sclerosis subtype, features skin thickening, vascular issues, and organ involvement, causing complications in the gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal systems. Herein, we present a rare case of oral candidiasis, with CREST syndrome. The patient presented with xerostomia, tongue erythema, and burning pain. The patient reported finger stiffness, facial sclerosis, cold-induced pain, and a 10-year history of palmar-plantar pustulosis. Laboratory tests confirmed antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and anticentromere antibodies (1:1280), leading to a diagnosis of CREST syndrome. A fungal culture identified Candida albicans, and treatment with miconazole gel successfully resolved the infection. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing oral manifestations in systemic autoimmune diseases, as conditions like xerostomia increase susceptibility to infections.