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Absidia corymbifera infections in neonates
S B Amin1, R M Ryan, L A Metlay
1Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Strong, Rochester, New York 14642, USA.
Summary
This study documents two neonatal zygomycosis cases caused by Absidia corymbifera. Both infants died despite treatment, highlighting the severe threat of this opportunistic fungal infection in neonates.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neonatal zygomycosis is a rare but severe fungal infection.
- Absidia corymbifera is an opportunistic pathogen.
- Neonates, especially premature or immunocompromised infants, are at high risk.
Observation:
- Two cases of neonatal zygomycosis caused by Absidia corymbifera are presented.
- Case 1: A premature infant with disseminated disease originating from a cutaneous site, involving pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and cerebral systems.
- Case 2: A full-term infant with congenital heart disease and fungal pneumonitis.
Findings:
- Disseminated zygomycosis in a premature neonate led to death despite amphotericin B therapy and surgical debridement.
- In the second case, zygomycosis was not suspected due to confounding factors like congenital heart disease and a complex postoperative course, also resulting in death.
- Absidia corymbifera is identified as an emerging opportunistic fungal pathogen in compromised neonates.
Implications:
- These cases underscore the critical need for heightened awareness and early diagnosis of neonatal zygomycosis.
- The findings emphasize the aggressive nature of Absidia corymbifera infections in neonates.
- This research contributes to understanding the spectrum of opportunistic fungal infections affecting vulnerable infant populations.