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Candida utilis candidaemia in neonatal patients

Amarela Lukić-Grlić1,2, Emilija Mlinarić-Missoni3, Ivančica Škarić2

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Zagreb Medical School, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia.

Journal of Medical Microbiology
|February 26, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Candida utilis bloodstream infections (candidaemia) are rare in newborns. This study reports three neonatal cases, successfully treated with antifungal medications, highlighting a potential emerging threat in neonatal intensive care units.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Mycology
  • Neonatal Infectious Diseases
  • Antifungal Resistance

Background:

  • Rising incidence of non-albicans Candida bloodstream infections (candidaemia).
  • Limited data on Candida utilis infections, particularly in neonates.
  • Candida utilis is an emerging opportunistic pathogen.

Observation:

  • Three neonates in a single neonatal intensive care unit developed Candida utilis candidaemia within six months.
  • This represents a significant increase in reported cases of C. utilis candidaemia, with no prior reports in newborns.
  • The infections presented clinically in hospitalized neonatal patients.

Findings:

  • Successful clinical resolution and fungal clearance were achieved in all three cases.
  • Treatment involved liposomal amphotericin B or caspofungin.
  • Candida utilis was eradicated from the bloodstream in all affected infants.

Implications:

  • Highlights Candida utilis as a potential cause of neonatal candidaemia.
  • Suggests the need for increased surveillance of non-albicans Candida species in neonatal intensive care units.
  • Demonstrates effective treatment options for C. utilis infections in vulnerable newborns.

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