Intrauterine candidiasis: report of four cases

Despite the high incidence of candida vaginitis, intraamniotic candida infection seems to be a rare disease. This infective agent can cause chorioamnionitis even in the presence of intact fetal membranes.

We report four new cases of intrauterine candidiasis and describe the associated clinicopathological features. Three of the cases had predisposing risk factors, like rupture of membranes or intrauterine contraceptive device, and ended in fetal death; the fourth case had a gestational trophoblastic disease.

The pathogenic significance of fetal contamination by candida appears to depend largely on gestational age. Candida infection of the fetus can result in prematurity and death. The importance of early and accurate diagnosis of intraamniotic infection with candida is emphasized.