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Oral colonization: a possible source for candidemia in low-weight neonates
G C M Batista1, V L J Krebs2, L S Ruiz1
1Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences II, University of São Paulo (USP), avenue Profesor Lineu Prestes, 1374, CEP 05508-900, São Paulo, Brazil.
Journal De Mycologie Medicale
|January 21, 2014
Summary
High-risk neonates with oral yeast colonization are susceptible to candidemia. Monitoring oral microbiota is crucial for preventing fungal infections and guiding treatment strategies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neonates, particularly those in high-risk settings like NICUs, are vulnerable to invasive fungal infections.
- Oral colonization by yeasts can be a precursor to systemic candidemia in neonates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of oral yeast colonization in high-risk neonates.
- To determine the association between oral colonization and the development of candidemia in this population.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study was conducted in a NICU over six months.
- 125 high-risk neonates were screened for oral yeast colonization and septicemia.
- Yeast species identification and strain typing (PFGE, karyotyping) were performed.
Main Results:
- 19 neonates showed oral yeast colonization, and 12 developed fungemia.
- Species concordance between oral and blood isolates was observed in 50% of cases with concurrent colonization and fungemia.
- Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis were the most common species identified.
- A high mortality rate (66.6%) was noted in neonates with matching oral and blood yeast strains.
Conclusions:
- Oral yeast colonization is a significant risk factor for candidemia in high-risk neonates.
- Monitoring the oral microbiota is essential for early detection and management of fungal infections.
- These findings support the development of targeted therapeutic strategies to prevent invasive candidiasis.
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