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Intrapleural inoculation of candida in an infant with congenital cutaneous candidiasis
American Journal of Perinatology
|April 1, 1986
Insights
Trauma is often misdiagnosed in premature infants with skin lesions. Congenital cutaneous candidiasis is a critical differential diagnosis that requires specific treatment to prevent complications.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal dermatology
- Infectious diseases in neonates
- Pediatric pathology
Background:
- Large denuded skin lesions in very low birthweight infants can arise from various causes.
- Trauma is frequently presumed as the etiology without comprehensive evaluation.
Observation:
- A case of a premature infant presenting with extensive skin lesions is detailed.
- The infant was initially suspected to have suffered trauma.
Findings:
- The infant was diagnosed with congenital cutaneous candidiasis, a fungal infection.
- This diagnosis highlights the importance of considering non-traumatic etiologies.
Implications:
- Misdiagnosis can delay crucial, specific antifungal treatment for neonatal candidiasis.
- Failure to identify the correct cause may lead to severe complications in vulnerable infants.
Abstract:
Though several pathologic processes can produce large denuded skin lesions in very low birthweight infants, trauma is often diagnosed without further investigation. Failure to consider other causes may prevent institution of appropriate specific treatment and may contribute to the development of serious complications, as described in the present case report of a premature infant with congenital cutaneous candidiasis.