Clinical spectrum, management and outcome of neonatal candidiasis

To identify clinical spectrum, management and outcome of neonatal candidiasis.

The retrospective study was conducted at the Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan, and comprised microbiological records of all the babies admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit from January 2009 to January 2014 that were reviewed to identify those with positive candida cultures. Medical records were analysed for demographic and clinical spectrum features, management and outcome. SPSS 16 was used statistical analysis.

Of the total 1550 neonatal admissions, 560 (36%) had positive cultures, and, of them, candida was isolated in 49(8.8%) neonates. Among them, 13(26%) had candida albicans and the rest had candida species. Majority were males 34(70%), and preterm with 30(61%) being <37 weeks. The mean birth weight was 2000±873 grams. Mean age at admission was 6±7.6 days. Overall, 39(80%) had ≥2 risk factors. The commonest site of isolation was blood in 41(84%). Besides, 32 (65%) received fluconazole alone for treatment. Mean duration of anti-fungal therapy was 10±5 days (range: 1-21 days). Twelve (24%) neonates expired and the cause of death was candida sepsis in 10(20%) cases. Mortality was not significantly associated with gender, place of birth, gestation, risk factors, length of stay, prior antibiotic exposure or receipt of antifungal prophylaxis except those who were ≤1500 grams (p<0.05).

Approximately one in ten at-risk neonates may develop candida sepsis with high mortality. Early institution of anti-fungal therapy may prove to be life-saving.