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Infecting Mice with Malassezia spp. to Study the Fungus-Host Interaction
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Infecting Mice with Malassezia spp. to Study the Fungus-Host Interaction

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Neonatal rectal colonization with Malassezia furfur

G J Gross1, N E Macdonald, A M Mackenzie

  • 1Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario.

The Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases = Journal Canadien Des Maladies Infectieuses
|March 28, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans commonly colonize newborns in the NICU, primarily in the lower GI tract. Prematurity and antibiotic use increase colonization risk.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) infections
  • Medical Mycology
  • Neonatal Health

Background:

  • Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans are increasingly recognized as significant pathogens in NICU patients.
  • These fungi cause mortality and serious morbidity in vulnerable neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the colonization patterns of Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans in newborns admitted to a NICU.
  • To identify risk factors associated with colonization by these fungal pathogens.

Main Methods:

  • A longitudinal study tracked oral, rectal, and umbilical colonization in 71 newborns for at least 10 days.
  • Statistical analysis examined associations between colonization and gestational age, birthweight, and antibiotic use.

Main Results:

  • 24 infants were colonized with M. furfur and 12 with C. albicans within the first 10 days.
  • The lower gastrointestinal tract was the most common site for both organisms.
  • Lower gestational age, birthweight, and antibiotic use were associated with increased colonization risk.

Conclusions:

  • M. furfur and C. albicans are common colonizers in NICU settings, frequently found in the lower GI tract.
  • M. furfur, previously noted as a systemic pathogen, is also a common commensal in neonates.
  • Further research is needed to understand the link between colonization and invasive disease and to develop preventive strategies.
Keywords:
Malassezia furfurNeonates

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