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Candida krusei infection presenting as a right ventricular mass in a two month old Infant

Suresh V Patted1, Prabhu C Halkati, Suresh T Yavagal

  • 1Department of Cardiology, KLE University J N Medical College, Belgaum, Karnataka, India.

Annals of Pediatric Cardiology
|September 3, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Fungal infections in premature infants are increasing. A rare case of Candida krusei caused a right ventricular mass, highlighting the need for strict hygiene and early echocardiography in neonatal intensive care units.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Rising incidence of fungal infections in neonates, particularly preterm infants, due to increased survival rates and immunocompromised status.
  • Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) present risks for healthcare-associated (nosocomial) infections due to invasive procedures and monitoring.
  • Candida krusei is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause severe infections in vulnerable infant populations.

Observation:

  • A rare case of a right ventricular mass was identified in a neonate.
  • The mass was confirmed to be secondary to Candida krusei infection.
  • Surgical excision of the fungal mass was performed.

Findings:

  • Candida krusei can manifest as a cardiac mass in neonates, a rare but serious complication.
  • The case underscores the susceptibility of preterm, immunocompromised infants in NICUs to invasive fungal infections.
  • Prompt diagnosis through echocardiography is crucial for effective management.

Implications:

  • Reinforces the critical importance of stringent aseptic techniques and infection control in NICUs.
  • Highlights the necessity of early echocardiographic evaluation for neonates with unexplained symptoms to detect cardiac involvement.
  • Emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and prompt treatment of invasive fungal infections in high-risk infant populations.

Keywords:
Preterm newbornsfungal infectionright ventricular mass

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