Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Nov 11, 2024 2 days, 23 hours, 27 minutes ago
Medical News: As women enter menopause, hormonal shifts lead to significant changes in their bodies. One area affected by these shifts is the oral mycobiome, the community of fungi in the mouth. A recent study by researchers from several Romanian institutions explores how menopause and aging alter this delicate balance, leading to potential oral health issues that may impact overall well-being.
Fungal Changes in Postmenopausal Women’s Mouths May Affect Overall Health
Researchers from "Titu Maiorescu" University, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, and "Ovidius" University found that postmenopausal women experience notable changes in their oral mycobiome, particularly in the presence of certain fungal species. This
Medical News report examines their findings, linking these shifts to inflammation, dry mouth, and broader health implications.
Understanding the Oral Mycobiome and Menopause’s Impact
The oral mycobiome consists of various fungi, such as Candida species, which are most prevalent, alongside others like Cladosporium and Aureobasidium. For most people, these fungi coexist with bacteria, maintaining a healthy mouth. However, when menopause begins, the decline in estrogen levels disrupts this harmony, potentially fostering an environment that encourages fungal overgrowth and inflammation.
Estrogen plays a key role in keeping the oral mucosa healthy, supporting immunity in the mouth, and maintaining its structure. The sharp drop in estrogen during menopause leaves the mouth more vulnerable to conditions like xerostomia, or dry mouth. This lack of moisture further compounds the issue, as saliva is vital for washing away microbes and maintaining oral health.
Increased Fungal Presence and Its Consequences
The study highlights that Candida albicans, commonly found in healthy mouths, becomes more aggressive in postmenopausal women, shifting from a harmless presence to a potential pathogen. This fungus takes advantage of the weakened mucosal barriers, increasing its adhesion to oral surfaces and contributing to biofilm formation - a protective layer that makes it challenging to eliminate. Such biofilms can lead to persistent infections, which not only affect the mouth but may also contribute to systemic inflammation if left unchecked.
Another concerning change is the rise of Candida glabrata and Candida krusei in the mouths of postmenopausal women. These fungi are more resistant to treatment than Candida albicans, presenting challenges in managing infections. The study notes that Candida glabrata, in particular, is adept at surviving harsh environments, making it a persistent oral issue for this population.
Non-Candida Species Also on the Rise
The research team also observed a rise in other fungal species less commonly seen in the oral cavity. Malassezia, for instance, typically associated with skin conditions, was detected more frequentl
y in the oral samples of postmenopausal women. This surprising finding suggests that menopause may disrupt lipid metabolism in the mouth, creating a hospitable environment for Malassezia.
Similarly, the study identified Aspergillus species, known environmental molds, which could exploit the weakened immune defenses associated with menopause. The presence of Aspergillus in the mouth could lead to infections in vulnerable individuals, adding to the list of potential health risks tied to menopausal oral changes.
How Systemic Health is Affected
Beyond the mouth, these changes can have far-reaching health effects. Chronic inflammation in the mouth can influence systemic health, potentially contributing to conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The study authors point out that systemic inflammation, often indicated by biomarkers like C-reactive protein (CRP), is more common in postmenopausal women due to both hormonal shifts and aging. This chronic inflammation can strain the body’s systems, increasing the risk of various age-related diseases.
The study also brings attention to xerostomia in postmenopausal women, a condition that exacerbates fungal overgrowth. With dry mouth, the body’s natural defenses weaken, allowing fungi to proliferate and increasing the likelihood of infections that might spread beyond the mouth.
Key Takeaways from the Study
The study suggests a close relationship between menopause-related hormonal changes, shifts in the oral mycobiome, and potential health complications. By understanding these dynamics, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies that address these specific needs in postmenopausal women. Future research will likely focus on exploring the potential benefits of treatments like hormone replacement therapy or probiotics to counteract these changes and restore balance in the oral mycobiome.
In summary, the findings provide new insights into how menopause can affect oral health in ways that may resonate throughout the body. They highlight the importance of monitoring and managing oral health in postmenopausal women to potentially reduce inflammation and support overall well-being.
Conclusion
The research underscores the need for further investigation into how menopause influences the oral mycobiome and, in turn, systemic health. As we learn more, interventions aimed at restoring balance in the oral microbiome could play a critical role in promoting health during the postmenopausal years. Enhancing oral care strategies and encouraging regular dental visits could help mitigate the risks associated with these fungal shifts, ultimately benefiting the broader health of postmenopausal women.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Biomedicines.
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/12/11/2569
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/menopause
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