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Candida pelliculosa sepsis in a neonate: a case report
Zeyu Cai1, Wei Wei2, Zhongle Cheng3
1Department of Pathology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, P.R China.
Abstract:
Candida pelliculosa is a rare fungal cause of neonatal sepsis. Premature and very low birthweight infants are at especially high risk of neonatal fungal infections. There have been no reports of C. pelliculosa infection in Anhui Province, China. Here, we report a case of C. pelliculosa fungemia in a newborn boy admitted 30 minutes after delivery with grunting, cyanosis, and asphyxia. C. pelliculosa was identified as the causative organism using blood culture, DNA sequencing, and mass spectrometric analysis. After 20 days of fluconazole therapy, the patient's symptoms stabilized. Together with other relevant literature, this report provides evidence that premature neonates are at increased risk of fungal infections and that C. pelliculosa fungemia should be diagnosed early using blood cultures to enable effective treatment. Fluconazole may be effective for treating neonates with C. pelliculosa infection.
Insights
Candida pelliculosa is a rare cause of neonatal sepsis, particularly in premature infants. Early diagnosis via blood culture and fluconazole treatment are crucial for managing this infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neonatal sepsis poses significant risks, especially for premature and low birthweight infants.
- Fungal infections, though rare, are a serious concern in neonatal intensive care units.
- Candida pelliculosa is an uncommon pathogen in neonatal sepsis cases.
Observation:
- A case of Candida pelliculosa fungemia is reported in a newborn boy in Anhui Province, China.
- The infant presented with respiratory distress shortly after birth.
- Identification was confirmed through blood culture, DNA sequencing, and mass spectrometry.
Findings:
- Candida pelliculosa was identified as the causative agent of fungemia.
- The neonate received 20 days of fluconazole therapy.
- Patient symptoms stabilized following treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the risk of Candida pelliculosa fungemia in premature neonates.
- Early diagnosis using blood cultures is essential for effective treatment.
- Fluconazole appears to be an effective therapeutic option for neonatal Candida pelliculosa infections.
