[Vertical transmission of Candida and its consequences]

The subpartal transmission of Candida albicans from the vagina of the mother to the newborn is an old and often discussed problem. Thereby the decrease of the infection rate and the prevention of systemic mycoses due to Candida--especially in newborns of risk--are the main objectives. At the end of pregnancy C. albicans is found in vaginal secretions in 25-30% of the women. 70-85% of these women subpartally contaminate their infants with this yeast. Thus 22-24% of all infants acquire C. albicans sub partus. From this situation the following conclusions may be drawn: 1. A prepartal prophylaxis for mycoses in pregnant women with vaginal Candida colonization is to obtain by an intravaginal treatment with polyene or azole antimycotics at the end of pregnancy. Recommendations are offered. 2. A prophylaxis for mycoses in newborns which are especially disposed for systemic candidosis by several factors of risk is to initiate. The oral application of polyene antimycoticas during the considerable endangering by mycoses has been proved to be useful. Referring to this recommendations are offered.