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Fungal endocarditis in premature infants: case report and review
E Mayayo1, J Moralejo, J Camps
1Unitat de Microbiologia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain.
Abstract:
Fungal endocarditis in premature infants has rarely been reported; only 16 cases have been described. We present a fatal case of endocarditis due to Candida albicans in a patient requiring neonatal intensive care and parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter; there were no preexisting pathological abnormalities. The patient had sepsis with multisystem organ failure, resulting in death. A postmortem examination was performed, and the most important findings are presented. The literature on fungal endocarditis in premature infants is reviewed as well.
Insights
Fungal endocarditis is rare in premature infants. This case highlights a fatal Candida albicans infection in a neonate requiring intensive care, emphasizing the risks associated with central venous catheters.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Cardiology
Background:
- Fungal endocarditis is an uncommon and severe infection, particularly in premature infants.
- Limited case reports exist, making understanding and management challenging in this vulnerable population.
Observation:
- A premature infant in neonatal intensive care developed sepsis and multisystem organ failure.
- Parenteral nutrition was administered via a central venous catheter, a potential route for infection.
- No pre-existing pathological abnormalities were noted in the infant.
Findings:
- The infant succumbed to the infection, with postmortem examination confirming Candida albicans endocarditis.
- The case represents one of the few documented instances of fungal endocarditis in premature neonates.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for vigilance regarding invasive fungal infections in critically ill neonates.
- Early diagnosis and prompt management are crucial for improving outcomes in premature infants with suspected fungal endocarditis.
- Central venous catheter care protocols may need re-evaluation to minimize fungal colonization risks in neonates.