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Systemic candidiasis with cataract formation in a premature infant
1Department of Ophthalmology, Callahan Eye Foundation Hospital, University of Alabama at Birmingham, School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
Abstract:
Endogenous Candida endophthalmitis is a well-recognized complication in low-birth-weight premature infants. The incidence of systemic candidiasis in premature and low-birth-weight infants is approximately 3%. As many as half of these infants will develop Candida endophthalmitis. Eye involvement typically presents as one or more tiny white "fungal ball" chorioretinal lesions with overlying vitritis. Lens involvement is extremely rare. We report a case of cataract due to Candida albicans in a premature, low-birth-weight infant unresponsive to systemic and intracameral antifungal therapy and requiring lensectomy with vitrectomy.
Insights
Endogenous Candida endophthalmitis, a serious complication in premature infants, can rarely cause cataracts. This case highlights a severe Candida albicans infection requiring surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Mycology
Background:
- Endogenous Candida endophthalmitis is a known complication in premature infants, affecting up to 50% of those with systemic candidiasis.
- Systemic candidiasis occurs in approximately 3% of premature and low-birth-weight infants.
Observation:
- Typical Candida endophthalmitis involves chorioretinal lesions and vitritis.
- Lens involvement, specifically cataract formation, is exceptionally rare in these cases.
Findings:
- A premature infant with Candida albicans endophthalmitis developed a cataract.
- The infant's condition was unresponsive to systemic and intracameral antifungal treatments.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare but severe ocular complications of Candida infections in neonates.
- Lensectomy with vitrectomy may be necessary for managing Candida-induced cataracts in infants when medical therapy fails.