A nurse is caring for a client with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The nurse notes white lesions on the client's tongue. What opportunistic infection is this client experiencing?

Candidiasis, commonly known as thrush, is characterized by white lesions on the tongue and is a common opportunistic infection in clients with AIDS due to their compromised immune system. Xerostomia refers to dry mouth and does not cause white lesions; it can occur in various conditions but is not an opportunistic infection. Halitosis is bad breath and does not correlate with white lesions on the tongue; it can result from various causes but is not an infection. Gingivitis involves inflammation of the gums and may present with red, swollen gums but does not typically cause white lesions on the tongue.