Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) Practice

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Prepare for the Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) with our comprehensive quiz. Enhance your knowledge with questions covering all exam sections. Each question includes detailed explanations to aid your understanding and readiness for the exam.

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Which oral manifestation is commonly associated with HIV/AIDS?

Oral thrush
Gingivitis
Halitosis
Oral herpes

The correct answer is: Oral thrush

Oral thrush, also known as oropharyngeal candidiasis, is a common oral manifestation associated with HIV/AIDS. This condition occurs due to an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which is opportunistic and typically occurs when the immune system is compromised, as seen in individuals with HIV/AIDS. The weakened immune response allows the normally harmless yeast that resides in the mouth to proliferate, leading to the characteristic white patches on the oral mucosa. The prevalence of oral thrush in those with HIV/AIDS is substantial; it often serves as an early warning sign of immunosuppression, indicating a potential progression from HIV to AIDS. Therefore, recognizing oral thrush can be critical in the clinical management of patients infected with the virus. While gingivitis, halitosis, and oral herpes can occur in various populations and are related to other factors, they are not as specifically indicative of HIV/AIDS as oral thrush. Gingivitis is often the result of poor oral hygiene, halitosis can arise from multiple etiologies including dietary habits and oral health, and oral herpes, although common, does not specifically signify an HIV infection compared to the opportunistic nature of oral thrush.