Candida endophthalmitis in the premature infant

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neonatology
• Mycology

Background:

• Systemic candidiasis poses a significant risk to premature infants.
• Candida endophthalmitis is a serious complication requiring prompt diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• Eight premature infants with systemic candidiasis underwent ophthalmoscopy.
• Four infants presented with retinal and vitreous lesions and vitreous haze.
• Vitreous strands were observed in three infants.

Findings:

• Three infants treated with amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine showed lesion resolution.
• One infant with progressing eye lesions died early in treatment.
• Candida sepsis was more common in very low-birth-weight infants with prolonged hospital stays and antibiotic use.

Implications:

• Candida endophthalmitis in premature infants appears to have a favorable prognosis with timely antifungal treatment.
• Further long-term follow-up is crucial to fully understand the outcomes.
• Early detection and intervention are key for managing this neonatal complication.