Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. This systemic condition frequently leads to various complications, including susceptibility to opportunistic fungal infections such as oral candidiasis. In elderly patients, the risk is significantly exacerbated by age-related physiological changes, compromised immune function, and increased glucose concentrations in saliva, which create an optimal environment for the rapid proliferation of Candida species. Consequently, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of Candida species in the saliva of elderly patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus in the working area of Telaga Dewa Public Health Center, Bengkulu City. This research employed a descriptive observational design to investigate the microbiological profile of the subjects. The sample consisted of 32 elderly diabetic patients, with saliva samples meticulously collected using the absorption method via sterile swabs. Laboratory identification involved macroscopic culture on Saboraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and microscopic examination using Lactophenol Cotton Blue (LPCB) staining. The analysis revealed a high prevalence of fungal presence; out of 32 respondents, 25 individuals (78%) tested positive for Candida sp. in their saliva, while only 7 individuals (22%) tested negative. These findings underscore the vulnerability of diabetic elderly to oral fungal infections, suggesting that routine oral health monitoring should be integrated into geriatric diabetes management to prevent further complications.

Candida sp., Saliva, Elderly