Characterisation of Candida Colonisation in Neonates

Introduction: The occurrence of invasive fungal infections has increased significantly worldwide, premature infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) along with other risk factors are at particular risk of these invasive fungal infections which lead to fungal septicaemia in newborns. Candidaemia is the most common form of invasive candidiasis associated with an unacceptably high mortality rates. Candida colonisation in neonates is considered the first step towards developing neonatal sepsis. Aim: To determine the prevalence of Candida colonisation and its characterisation among neonates admitted in NICU. Materials and Methods: The present study was a prospective cross-sectional study with 150 neonates included in the study. Swabs were taken from four different sites of each neonate and inoculated on Chocolate agar and Sabouraud’s Dextrose Agar (SDA) and incubated at 37°C for seven days. Candida species isolated were confirmed by gram stain, germ tube test, growth on Chromogenic (CHROM) agar and cornmeal agar. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 11.0. Results: A total of 32 (21.3%) neonates had Candida colonisation. Twenty two (68.7%) were low birth weight and 24 (75%) were born premature. Perineum was the most common (56%) site of colonisation. Among Candida isolates, Candida tropicalis (63%) was the commonest followed by Candida parapsilosis (25%) and Candida glabrata and Candida albicans (6%). The risk factors identified were low birth weight, premature birth, use of antibiotics. Conclusion: Colonisation of preterm and low birth weight neonates by Candida species is a major risk factor and needs attention to avoid dissemination and life threatening infection