Which organism is known to be the primary cause of thrush?

Candida albicans is recognized as the primary cause of thrush, which is an infection of the oral cavity featuring white patches or lesions. This organism is a type of yeast that normally exists in small numbers in the human body, particularly in areas such as the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract. Under certain conditions, such as a weakened immune system, antibiotic use, or other predispositions, Candida overgrows, leading to thrush.

Understanding the role of Candida albicans is essential for recognizing how this yeast can disrupt the balance of normal flora in the body. For individuals who are immunocompromised or have other risk factors, the overgrowth can become pathogenic and result in symptomatic infections, making identification and treatment crucial in such cases. Other organisms listed, while relevant in various contexts, do not typically cause thrush; thus Candida albicans stands out as the leading culprit in this particular infection.