Candidemia in neonatal intensive care units: Barcelona, Spain

Prevalence of Ocular Candidiasis and Candida Endophthalmitis in Patients With Candidemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Infectious diseases and ophthalmology professional societies have disagreed regarding ocular screening in patients with candidemia. We aimed to summarize the current evidence on the prevalence of ocular candidiasis (OC) and Candida endophthalmitis (CE) according to the standardized definitions.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted from the inception date through 16 October 2022 using PubMed, Embase, and SCOPUS. Pooled prevalence of ocular complications was derived from generalized linear mixed models (PROSPERO CRD42022326610).

RESULTS

A total of 70 and 35 studies were included in the meta-analysis for OC and concordant CE (chorioretinitis with vitreous involvement), respectively. This study represented 8599 patients with candidemia who underwent ophthalmologic examination. Pooled prevalences (95% CI) of OC, overall CE, concordant CE, and discordant CE were 10.7% (8.4-13.5%), 3.1% (2.1-4.5%), 1.8% (1.3-2.6%), and 7.4% (4.5-12%) of patients screened, respectively. Studies from Asian countries had significantly higher concordant CE prevalence (95% CI) of patients screened (3.6%; 2.9-4.6%) compared with studies from European countries (1.4%; .4-5%) and American countries (1.4%; .9-2.2%) (P <.01). Presence of total parenteral nutrition and Candida albicans was associated with CE, with pooled odds ratios (95% CI) of 6.92 (3.58-13.36) and 3.02 (1.67-5.46), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of concordant CE overall and among Asian countries was 2 and 4 times higher than the prevalence previously reported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) of <0.9%, respectively. There is an urgent need to study optimal screening protocols and to establish joint recommendations by the Infectious Diseases Society of America and AAO.

Emerging threat of candida resistance among neonates at a teaching institute of Jharkhand

Purpose

In the past few decades, candidemia has escalated to worrisome levels, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality in neonates. The rise in anti-fungal drug resistance demands prompt diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to determine the speciation and susceptibility pattern of Candida species recovered from special care new-born units and identify risk factors for developing candidemia in neonates.

Method

A total of 580 blood samples from clinically suspected septicemic neonates were collected and subjected to culture. Cultures positive for yeasts were sub-cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar. Identification of a suspected purified colony of Candida was confirmed to the species level by both conventional and automated techniques matrix-assisted laser desorption and ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Anti-fungal susceptibility of isolates was performed by an automated method (VITEK 2 system) using VITEK 2 cards. Multi-variate logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors associated with candidemia.

Result

A total of 56 (9.66%) isolates of Candida species were recovered from 580 blood cultures. Non-albicans Candida species predominated with 82.14% of cases, whereas 17.86% of cases were caused by Candida albicans. Candida tropicalis (46.42%) was the most common isolate recovered, followed by Candida albicans (17.8%). Risk factor analyses identified a very low birth weight [odds ratio (OR) =4.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) =2.03-8.08] and prolonged antibiotic therapy (OR = 3.79, 95% CI = 1.7-8.7) among others as significant predictors of candidemia. All the Candida isolates showed 100% sensitivity to voriconazole and micafungin, whereas the overall sensitivities for fluconazole, amphotericin B, caspofungin, and flucytosine were 85.71%, 96.43%, 96.43%, and 91.07%, respectively.

Conclusion

Candidemia is a life-threatening condition in neonates. Identification of Candida species and routine anti-fungal susceptibility is a must to select a suitable and effective anti-fungal therapy to revoke emerging resistance to anti-fungals.

Prevalence and Antifungal Susceptibility of Clinically Relevant Candida Species, Identification of Candida auris and Kodamaea ohmeri in Bangladesh

Candida species are major fungal pathogens in humans. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of individual Candida species and their susceptibility to antifungal drugs among clinical isolates in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. During a 10-month period in 2021, high vaginal swabs (HVSs), blood, and aural swabs were collected from 360 patients. From these specimens, Candida spp. was isolated from cultures on Sabouraud dextrose agar media, and phenotypic and genetic analyses were performed. A total of 109 isolates were recovered, and C. albicans accounted for 37%, being derived mostly from HVSs. Among non-albicans Candida (NAC), C. parapsilosis was the most frequent, followed by C. ciferrii, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata. Three isolates from blood and two isolates from aural discharge were genetically identified as C. auris and Kodamaea ohmeri, respectively. NAC isolates were more resistant to fluconazole (overall rate, 29%) than C. albicans (10%). Candida isolates from blood showed 95% susceptibility to voriconazole and less susceptibility to fluconazole (67%). Two or three amino acid substitutions were detected in the ERG11 of two fluconazole-resistant C. albicans isolates. The present study is the first to reveal the prevalence of Candida species and their antifungal susceptibility in Bangladesh.

Incidence and factors associated with invasive candidiasis in a neonatal intensive care unit in Mexico

INTRODUCTION

Neonatal Candida spp. infections are serious events due to their morbidity and mortality, however, epidemiological information is insufficient in developing countries. The objective of this study was to describe the incidence and factors associated with invasive infection by Candida spp. in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Mexico.

METHODS

Case-control study nested in a cohort and matched for birth weight. We estimated the incidence of invasive neonatal infection by Candida spp. For the bivariate analysis of the studied factors, McNemar's test was used to contrast hypotheses and multivariate analysis was made with logistic regression.

RESULTS

The incidence of infection was 2.27 events/1000 live newborns. The species identified were C. albicans 35.3% (n 30), C. parapsilosis 30.6% (n 26), C. glabrata 31.8% (n 27) and two events with C. lipolytica. The factors associated with a higher risk were mechanical ventilation (OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.13-8.14), systemic antibiotics (OR 7.48, 95% CI 1.30-42.9), number of antimicrobial regimens (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.01-4.03), and days with total parenteral nutrition (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04-1.25) or with venous catheter central (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02-1.20). Fluconazole prophylaxis decreased the risk (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.12-0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive interventions (central catheter, mechanical ventilation, and parenteral nutrition) and the use of antimicrobials increase the risk of neonatal Candida spp. Infection, while prophylactic fluconazole is protective.

The Flo Adhesin Family

The first step in the infection of fungal pathogens in humans is the adhesion of the pathogen to host tissue cells or abiotic surfaces such as catheters and implants. One of the main players involved in this are the expressed cell wall adhesins. Here, we review the Flo adhesin family and their involvement in the adhesion of these yeasts during human infections. Firstly, we redefined the Flo adhesin family based on the domain architectures that are present in the Flo adhesins and their functions, and set up a new classification of Flo adhesins. Next, the structure, function, and adhesion mechanisms of the Flo adhesins whose structure has been solved are discussed in detail. Finally, we identified from Pfam database datamining yeasts that could express Flo adhesins and are encountered in human infections and their adhesin architectures. These yeasts are discussed in relation to their adhesion characteristics and involvement in infections.

[Incidence and factors associated with invasive candidiasis in a neonatal intensive care unit in Mexico]

INTRODUCTION

Neonatal Candida spp. infections are serious events due to their morbidity and mortality, however, epidemiological information is insufficient in developing countries. The objective of this study was to describe the incidence and factors associated with invasive infection by Candida spp. in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Mexico.

METHODS

Case-control study nested in a cohort and matched for birth weight. We estimate the incidence of invasive neonatal infection by Candida spp. For the bivariate analysis of the studied factors, McNemar's test was used to contrast hypotheses and multivariate analysis was made with logistic regression.

RESULTS

The incidence of infection was 2.27 events/1000 live newborns. The species identified were C. albicans 35.3% (n 30), C. parapsilosis 30.6% (n 26), C. glabrata 31.8% (n 27) and two events with C. lipolytica. The factors associated with a higher risk were mechanical ventilation (OR 3.04; 95% CI 1.13-8.14), systemic antibiotics (OR 7.48; 95% CI 1.30-42.9), number of antimicrobial regimens (OR 2.02; 95% CI 1.01-4.03), and days with total parenteral nutrition (OR 1.14; 95% CI 1.04-1.25) or with venous catheter central (OR 1.11; 95% CI 1.02-1.20). Fluconazole prophylaxis decreased the risk (OR 0.32; 95% CI 0.12-0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive interventions (central catheter, mechanical ventilation, and parenteral nutrition) and the use of antimicrobials increase the risk of neonatal Candida spp. Infection, while prophylactic fluconazole is protective.

Mind the gaps: challenges in the clinical management of invasive candidiasis in critically ill patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Strict adherence to clinical practice guidelines is recognized to improve outcomes but the inconvenient truth is that only a small subset of what is done in medicine has been tested in appropriate, well designed studies. In this article, we aim to review controversial aspects of the clinical management of invasive candidiasis recommended by guidelines.

RECENT FINDINGS

Despite still being recommended by guidelines, we fail to identify a single randomized clinical trial documenting that the use of antifungal drugs in high-risk critically ill patients without microbiologic documentation of Candida infection decreases mortality. Regarding deep-seated Candida infections, most cohort studies of patients with candidemia found less than 5% of patients developed endophthalmitis and endocarditis. In this scenario, it is reasonable to reconsider routine universal screening of both complications in candidemic patients. Finally, a large number of studies have shown that critically ill patients usually have lower echinocandin exposure when compared with other populations. We need more data on the clinical relevance of this finding.

SUMMARY

We need robust studies to validate new strategies for the clinical management of candidemia in ICU, including: the use of fungal biomarkers in the early initiation or interruption of antifungal therapy in high-risk patients to replace the conventional empirical antifungal therapy driven by predictive rules; validation of targeted screening of eye infection and endocarditis with the aid of fungal biomarkers only in high-risk patients; we should clarify if higher doses of candins are necessary to treat invasive candidiasis in critically ill patients, especially in the case of intra-abdominal infections where drug penetration is suboptimal.

Deciphering the epidemiology of invasive candidiasis in the intensive care unit: is it possible?

Invasive candidiasis (IC) has emerged in the last decades as an important cause of morbidity, mortality, and economic load in the intensive care unit (ICU). The epidemiology of IC is still a difficult and unsolved enigma for the literature. Accurate estimation of the true burden of IC is difficult due to variation in definitions and limitations inherent to available case-finding methodologies. Candidemia and intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC) are the two predominant types of IC in ICU. During the last two decades, an increase in the incidence of candidemia has been constantly reported particularly in the expanding populations of elderly or immunosuppressed patents, with a parallel change in Candida species (spp.) distribution worldwide. Epidemiological shift in non-albicans spp. has reached worrisome trends. Recently, a novel, multidrug-resistant Candida spp., Candida auris, has globally emerged as a nosocomial pathogen causing a broad range of healthcare-associated invasive infections. Epidemiological profile of IAC remains imprecise. Though antifungal drugs are available for Candida infections, mortality rates continue to be high, estimated to be up to 50%. Increased use of fluconazole and echinocandins has been associated with the emergence of resistance to these drugs, which affects particularly C. albicans and C. glabrata. Crucial priorities for clinicians are to recognize the epidemiological trends of IC as well as the emergence of resistance to antifungal agents to improve diagnostic techniques and strategies, develop international surveillance networks and antifungal stewardship programmes for a better epidemiological control of IC.

Invasive candidiasis in a Brazilian neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract Objectives: to describe the epidemiology of invasive candidiasis in a neonatal intensive care unit. Methods: cross-sectional study that included all neonates with invasive candidiasis confirmed by blood culture from April 2015 to June 2018. Demographic, clinical and microbiological data were analyzed, comparing neonates with extreme low birth weight (ELBW) with neonates ≥ 1000g birth weight, considering a p <0.05 as statistically significant. Results: there were 38 cases of invasive candidiasis, resulting in an overall incidence of 2.5%. Twelve (32%) were ELBW neonates and 26 (68%) neonates ≥ 1000g birth weight, an incidence of 4.4% and 2.0%, respectively. Abdominal surgery was more frequent among neonates with birth weight ≥ 1000g compared to ELBW neonates (85% vs. 17%; p <0.01), as well as the median in days of antibiotics use (18 vs. 10.5; p = 0.04). The median in days of mechanical ventilation was more frequent among ELBW neonates (10 vs. 5.5; p = 0.04). The majority of Candida species were non-albicans (64%). Fatality rate was 32%. Conclusions: the incidence of invasive candidiasis among neonates with birth weight ≥ 1000g was higher than that found in the literature. This group has a higher proportion of gastrointestinal malformations that require surgery. Thus, fluconazole prophylaxis may be necessary for a broader group of neonates.

Initial use of voriconazole positively affects outcome of Candida parapsilosis bloodstream infection: a retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Concerns have arisen regarding the optimal antifungal regimen for Candida parapsilosis (C. parapsilosis) bloodstream infection (BSI) in view of its reduced sensitivity to fluconazole.

METHODS

The clinical characteristics of 58 C. parapsilosis BSI newborns who received treatment between June 2014 to December 2018 in the Shanghai Children's Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Based on the initial antifungal drugs, these patients were divided into fluconazole group (n=30) and voriconazole group (n=21). After 7-10-day treatment, the antifungal drugs were replaced if blood culture still showed positive. The clinical characteristics and therapeutic effects were compared between two groups.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the clinical characteristics between two groups (P>0.05). The median time to a negative culture in the voriconazole group was 7 [interquartile range (IQR), 6-10] days, which was significantly shorter than in the fluconazole group [9 (IQR, 7-18.5) days; P=0.034]. The overall median time to a negative culture was 8 days. After 8-day antifungal therapy, in the voriconazole group and fluconazole group, negative culture was observed in 16 and 12 patients, respectively; the positive culture was noted in 5 and 16 patients, respectively; the effective rate was 76.1% and 40%, respectively, showing marked difference (χ²=6.535, P=0.011). None died in the voriconazole group, but 4 died in the fluconazole group. The median time of treatment for fungal sepsis in the voriconazole group was 22 (IQR, 20-26) days, which was significantly shorter than in the fluconazole group [32 (IQR, 23.5-40) days; P=0.000].

CONCLUSIONS

The initial clinical manifestations of C. parapsilosis BSI vary among individuals, and voriconazole is superior to fluconazole in the treatment of C. parapsilosis BSI.

Utility of Ophthalmologic Screening for Patients With Candida Bloodstream Infections: A Systematic Review

Importance

The Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends ophthalmologic examinations for everyone with positive Candida blood culture results (candidemia) to screen for endophthalmitis, a practice that remains controversial because of multiple concerns for its limited usefulness and potential for harm.

Objective

To determine guideline efficacy by reconciling discrepancies in the incidence of endophthalmitis and evaluating outcomes of studies assessing ophthalmologic screening for candidemia.

Evidence Review

PubMed literature searches, including the search terms candidemia, fungemia, chorioretinitis, and endophthalmitis, identified longitudinal studies prior to 2018 of patients who underwent ophthalmologic evaluations in the setting of positive fungal blood culture results regardless of symptoms or clinical status. Additional studies not captured by these queries were found by manually scanning references within the articles captured by the queries. Ambiguous studies of patients with concomitant bacterial or viral infections were excluded.

Findings

Thirty-eight applicable studies of 7472 patients who underwent ophthalmologic screening for candidemia or fungemia were identified. Criteria were compared with the conventional definition of endophthalmitis based on present (concordant) or absent (discordant) frank vitreous involvement. Concordant (59 of 6693 [0.9%]) and discordant (114 of 779 [14.6%]) endophthalmitis incidence rates differed by 13.8% (95% CI, 11.4%-16.4%; P < .001). Visual acuity for each case was recorded verbatim as subjective report provided by each study, when available. None of the concordant endophthalmitis cases reported direct, intraocular, microscopic evidence of Candida or other fungal organisms. Outcomes were available for 19 patients with concordant endophthalmitis; 6 died within 4 weeks of screening. The rate of substantial vision loss was associated (φ = 0.58; 95% CI, 0.01-0.86; P = .046) with additional invasive intervention (3 of 6 [50.0%]) compared with medical management alone (0 of 6).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this systematic review without meta-analysis, inconsistent definitions of endophthalmitis accounted for discrepancies of its incidence and overreporting among patients with candidemia, contributing to bias and resulting in the construction of guidelines. As few as 3 of 7472 patients had potential improvement, while routine examination overall could lead to additional interventions and harm in this population. These findings suggest that indiscriminate screening based on candidemia alone does not appear to be supported by the literature and should be reevaluated for inclusion as a recommendation from the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

Changes in the epidemiological landscape of invasive candidiasis

The epidemiology of invasive candidiasis has evolved in recent years, warranting a review of the changes and the implications for current and future diagnosis and treatment. The overall burden of invasive candidiasis remains high, particularly in the expanding populations of patients at risk of opportunistic infection, such as the elderly or immunosuppressed. Progressive shifts from Candida albicans to non-albicans Candida spp. have been observed globally. The recent emergence of novel, multiresistant species, such as Candida auris, amplifies the call for vigilance in detection and advances in treatment. Among the current treatment options, fluconazole is still widely used throughout the world. Increased resistance to fluconazole, both acquired and naturally emerging, has been observed. Resistance to echinocandins is presently low but this may change with increased use. Improvement of diagnostic techniques and strategies, development of international surveillance networks and implementation of antifungal stewardship programmes represent major challenges for a better epidemiological control of invasive candidiasis.

Antifungal Drugs for Invasive Candida Infections (ICI) in Neonates: Future Perspectives

Fungal infections may complicate the neonatal clinical course, and the spectrum of therapies for their treatment in the perinatal period is limited. Polyenes, Azoles and Echinocandins represent the three classes of antifungal drugs commonly used in the neonatal period. The present review provides an overview about the most recent therapeutic strategies for the treatment of fungal infections in neonates.

Clinical and laboratory characteristics of Neonatal Candida sepsis

Introduction: Steady progress in intensive treatment worldwide has increased the survival of immature neonates, but with multiple invasive procedures, which has increased the risk of infection and, consequently, fungal sepsis. Candida is the dominant cause, with the rise of resistant non-albicans species. The mortality rate is high and requires timely suspicion and adequate treatment to counteract fatal outcomes. Objectives:To analyze the clinical and laboratory characteristics of Candida sepsis, compared to bacterial sepsis, in neonates treated in the neonatal intensive care unit. Methods: A retrospective cohort study conducted at the Intensive care unit of Pediatric Clinic Tuzla over a three-year period (2016-2018) analyzed the clinical and laboratory characteristics of neonates with Candida sepsis, evidenced by positive blood culture. The control group was neonates treated at the same time for proven bacterial sepsis. Statistical analysis applied standard methods, and the research was approved by the Ethics Committee of the institution. Results: Out of the total 921 neonates treated over a three-year period, culture-confirmed Candida sepsis was found in 48 (5.2%). Prematurity and low birth weight were the most significant risk factors and affected neonates had a more difficult clinical presentation, more receiving parenteral nutrition, mechanical ventilation, intravenous gamma globulin, and longer intensive treatment. Candida sepsis manifested mainly as late-onset. Laboratory abnormalities mainly included CRP elevation, anemia, leukocyte count deviations, and thrombocytopenia. There was no difference in mortality, 44 neonates recovered (91.7%), while 4 (8.3%) died. Antifungal therapy lasted 20.6 ± 6 days, and intensive treatment 38.2 ± 23.2 days, and was significantly longer compared to the control. All isolates were Candida species without in vitro resistance. In 8 neonates (16.7%) treatment complications were recorded. Conclusions: Neonatal Candida sepsis endangers life, complicates treatment, increases costs and mortality rate. Recovery depends on timely suspicion, adequate treatment, and supervision. Antifungal susceptibility is also important and requires monitoring of local epidemiological dynamics.

Prophylactic regimens with fluconazole for candidiasis in neonates under 1.500g: A retrospective chart review of two cohorts

BACKGROUND

The incidence rate of invasive candidiasis in newborns with birth weight below 1,500 g ranges from 2% to 8%, and fluconazole prophylaxis in neonatal units is recommended when the incidence of invasive candidiasis is higher than 5%. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of targeted prophylaxis and universal prophylaxis with fluconazole in the prevention of invasive candidiasis.

METHODS

This was a historical cohort comparing the targeted prophylaxis for newborns weighing less than 1,500 g and the universal prophylaxis for newborns weighing less than 1,000 g.

RESULTS

The overall incidence rate of invasive candidiasis was 5.25% and was reduced from 7.1% to 3.72% with universal prophylaxis (p = 0.04). In a multivariate analysis, the significant factors associated with the development of candidiasis were birth weight less than 1,000 g, prolonged hospitalization, previous surgery, prolonged use of mechanical ventilation, prior exposure to antimicrobial treatments, and use of targeted prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

Universal prophylaxis had lower incidence of invasive candidiasis, and preventive measures considering the risk factors are mandatory to reduce the incidence of invasive candidiasis.

Persistent candidemia in very low birth weight neonates: risk factors and clinical significance

Background

The prevalence and risk factors for persistent candidemia among very low birth weight infants are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology of persistent candidemia over a 4-year period in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in Liuzhou, China.

Methods

We retrospectively extracted demographic data, risk factors, microbiological results and outcomes of very low birth weight infants with candidemia in our hospital between January 2012 and November 2015. Persistent candidemia was defined as a positive blood culture for > 5 days. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with persistent candidemia.

Results

Of 48 neonates with candidemia, 28 had persistent candidemia. Both mechanical ventilation and intubation were significantly associated with increased rates of persistent candidemia (P = 0.044 and 0.004, respectively). The case fatality rate for the persistent candidemia group was 14.3%.

Conclusion

The rate of persistent candidemia was high among very low birth weight neonates. Mechanical ventilation and intubation were the major factors associated with the development of persistent candidemia. This study highlights the importance of intensive prevention and effective treatment among neonates with persistent candidemia.

Neonatal and Pediatric Candidemia: Results From Population-Based Active Laboratory Surveillance in Four US Locations, 2009-2015

INTRODUCTION

Candida is a leading cause of healthcare-associated bloodstream infections in the United States. Infants and children have unique risk factors for candidemia, and the Candida species distribution in this group is different that among adults; however, candidemia epidemiology in this population has not been described recently.

METHODS

We conducted active population-based candidemia surveillance in 4 US metropolitan areas between 2009 and 2015. We calculated incidences among neonates (0-30 days old), infants (0-364 days old), and noninfant children (1-19 years old), documented their clinical features and antifungal drug resistance.

RESULTS

We identified 307 pediatric candidemia cases. Incidence trends varied according to site, but overall, the incidence in neonates decreased from 31.5 cases/100000 births in 2009 to 10.7 to 11.8 cases/100000 births between 2012 and 2015, the incidence in infants decreased from 52.1 cases/100000 in 2009 to 15.7 to 17.5 between 2012 and 2015, and the incidence in noninfant children decreased steadily from 1.8 cases/100000 in 2009 to 0.8 in 2014. Common underlying conditions were prematurity in neonates (78%), surgery in nonneonate infants (38%), and malignancy in noninfant children (28%). Most neonate cases were caused by C albicans (67%), whereas non-C. albicans species accounted for 60% of cases in nonneonate infants and noninfant children. Fluconazole and echinocandin resistance rates were low overall. Thirty-day crude mortality was 13%.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of candidemia among neonates and infants declined after 2009 but remained stable from 2012 to 2015. Antifungal drug resistance is uncommon. Reasons for the lack of recent declines in neonatal and infant candidemia deserve further exploration. In this article, we describe the epidemiology of candidemia in children in the United States and on the basis of data collected as part of US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention active population-based surveillance. Trends in incidence, clinical characteristics, species distribution, and resistance rates are presented.

Nosocomial outbreak of Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto fungaemia in a neonatal intensive care unit in China

BACKGROUND

Candida parapsilosis is a common agent of fungaemia, but few outbreaks of Candida parapsilosis infection have been reported in China.

AIM

To elaborate an outbreak of nosocomial Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto fungaemia in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a comprehensive hospital in China from July to October 2017.

METHODS

Epidemics and characteristics of fungaemia cases were investigated. Surveillance samples were collected. Vitek 2 Compact System, internal transcribed spacer sequencing, and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) typing were conducted to identify the isolates. Antifungal susceptibility test was performed for all bloodstream isolates.

FINDINGS

Sixteen neonates were diagnosed as Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto fungaemia during this period. Presenting symptoms included leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, and respiratory crackles. Fifteen cases were cured whereas one case who suffered from severe concomitant diseases died. The isolates were susceptible to fluconazole, amphotericin B, itraconazole, voriconazole, and 5-fluorocytosine. A total of 313 surveillance samples were collected, and Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto was identified from 16 environmental samples and one sample from an ultrasonographer's hand. The colonized locations included wiping cloths, faucets, sinks, operating table, puddles in the bathroom, a ventilator, and an ultrasonic probe. The RAPD patterns of all the Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto isolates from bloodstream and surveillance samples were identical. The outbreak was controlled after a series of infection control measures.

CONCLUSION

Contaminated environment was associated with this outbreak. Close attention to immunocompromised patients, thorough environmental disinfection and hand hygiene should be strengthened in NICU.

Candidemia in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Retrospective, Observational Survey and Analysis of Literature Data

We evaluated the epidemiology of Candida bloodstream infections in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of an Italian university hospital during a 9-year period as a means of quantifying the burden of infection and identifying emerging trends. Clinical data were searched for in the microbiological laboratory database. For comparative purposes, we performed a review of NICU candidemia. Forty-one candidemia cases were reviewed (overall incidence, 3.0 per 100 admissions). Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto (58.5%) and C. albicans (34.1%) were the most common species recovered. A variable drift through years was observed; in 2015, 75% of the cases were caused by non-albicans species. The duration of NICU hospitalization of patients with non-albicans was significantly longer than in those with C. albicans (median days, 10 versus 12). Patients with non-albicans species were more likely to have parenteral nutrition than those with C. albicans (96.3% versus 71.4%). Candida albicans was the dominant species in Europe and America (median, 55% and 60%; resp.); non-albicans species predominate in Asia (75%). Significant geographic variation is evident among cases of candidemia in different parts of the world, recognizing the importance of epidemiological data to facilitate the treatment.

Epidemiology of Candida albicans and non-C.albicans of neonatal candidemia at a tertiary care hospital in western China

BACKGROUND

Although the majority of Candida infections occur in the developing world, candidemia epidemiology is poorly understood in these countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of non-Candida albicans (non-C. albicans) candidemia among neonates at Liuzhou Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital in China.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all positive blood culture about Candida species in neonatal intensive care unit was conducted between January 2012 and November 2015. Information about demographics, risk factors and outcome of candidemia were collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify the risk factors associated with the development of non-C.albicans candidemia.

RESULTS

The prevalence of candidemia in infants was 1.4%. Non-C.albicans was responsible for 56.5% of neonatal candidemia. The predisposing factors for development of non-C.albicans candidemia among infants included mechanical ventilation [odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (95%CI) = 3.13, 1.07-9.14; P = 0.037] and use of assisted reproductive technology (OR, 95%CI = 4.52, 1.39-14.77; P = 0.012). The overall mortality rate of candidemia was 8.7% and non-C.albicans attributed to 83.3% of all mortalities.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-C.albicans species are the major cause of candidemia in local neonatal group. The study highlights the urgent needs to evaluate the possibility of development of non-C.albicans candidemia in neonates exposed to these risk factors and much emphasis must be laid on the early implementation of medical intervention to reduce the incidences of candidemia in neonates.

Thyroid abnormalities in term infants with fungal sepsis

Objective:

To describe thyroid alterations in term newborns (TNB) with fungal sepsis during NICU hospitalization.

Method:

The study included six TNB that during the clinical and laboratory manifestations of sepsis with positive cultures for fungus showed changes in thyroid hormones, called low T3 syndrome and low T3-T4 syndrome. TNB that could present hormonal changes caused by disease as those born to mothers with thyroid disease, or who had perinatal asphyxia and major surgeries were excluded.

Results:

Of six TNB with fungal sepsis, five had positive culture for Candida albicans and one had positive culture for Candida tropicalis. Low T3 syndrome was observed in two TNB (50%), while T3-T4 syndrome was observed in other two (100%). The four children progressed to septic shock.

Conclusion:

Fungal sepsis is becoming more common among newborns admitted to NICU. Thyroid insufficiency could be a marker of disease severity with possible need for hormone supplementation.

Platelet parameters and (1, 3)-β-D-glucan as a diagnostic and prognostic marker of invasive fungal disease in preterm infants

The diagnosis of neonatal invasive fungal disease (IFD) is difficult and often delayed. The platelet parameters and (1, 3)-β-D-Glucan (BG) may be useful for diagnosing IFD, but their diagnostic performance are not well characterized in neonates. We studied 63 preterm infants with IFD, 160 preterm infants without sepsis (preterm control), and 41 preterm infants with bacterial sepsis. Platelet parameters at the first day of onset of IFD and at the fourteenth day after antifungal treatment were evaluated. Serum BG was measured. Platelet count (PC), plateletcrit (PCT), and platelet distribution width (PDW) values were significantly lower, and mean platelet volume (MPV) values significantly higher in the IFD versus preterm control infants. PC and PCT values were much lower in infants with IFD versus bacterial sepsis, and there were significant differences in BG value between the two groups. After 14 days of antifungal treatment, significant elevations in PC, PCT, PDW and reductions in MPV levels in IFD group were observed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that PC and PCT were strong predictors of IFD. The PC and PCT cut-offs for predicting IFD were 119.5 (sensitivity 78%, specificity 95%) and 0.21 (sensitivity 83%, specificity 85%), respectively. There were significant differences in PC and PCT levels between deceased and survived patients. The PC and PCT cut-offs for predicting deceased IFD were 39 (sensitivity 62%, specificity 86%) and 0.04 (sensitivity 50%, specificity 95%), respectively. The sensitivity in diagnosing IFD by a BG cutoff of ≥10pg/ml was 68.3% and specificity was 75.6%. PC and PCT levels in the BG ≥400 pg/ml group were significantly lower compared to the BG<400 pg/ml group. Platelet parameters and BG could be useful biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of neonatal IFD.

Invasive Candidiasis in preterm neonates in China: a retrospective study from 11 NICUS during 2009-2011

BACKGROUND

Candida species is an important cause of nosocomial infection in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). However, most reports in China have been limited to single institutions. The aim of this study is to investigate the epidemiology of invasive candidiasis in multiple NICUs across China.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected demographic data, clinical characteristics, microbiological results and outcome of preterm infants with invasive candidiasis discharged from 11 academic tertiary NICUs during January 2009 to December 2011.

RESULTS

There were 30,045 preterm infants discharged from 11 NICUs during the study period. We detected 223 infants with invasive candidiasis, resulting in an incidence of 0.74 cases per 100 preterm discharges from NICUs. In very low birth weight infants, the incidence was 3.42 cases per 100 very low birth weight discharges. Mean gestational age of infected infants was 31.4 weeks and median birth weight was 1410 gram. Among the cohort of infants with invasive candidiasis, 214 (96.0%) infants had positive blood culture for fungus, 5 infants had positive urine culture, 3 from cerebrospinal fluid and 1 from articular effusion in the shoulder joint. Among the cohort of infants with candidemia, 48 (22.4%) infants had fungal meningitis. Candida albicans accounted for 57.4% of total positive cultures. Overall mortality attributable to invasive candidiasis was 19.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Invasive candidiasis is a common problem among preterm neonates in China, especially among very low birth weight infants and it is associated with a high mortality. The preponderance of infections was due to Candida albicans.

Background changing patterns of neonatal fungal sepsis in a developing country

BACKGROUND

Candida albicans is the predominant isolate in many neonatal fungal bloodstream infections (BSIs), so fluconazole is used as empiric antifungal therapy.

AIM

To determine the predominant organisms, antifungal sensitivity patterns, clinical and demographic risk factors and crude mortality rate in neonatal fungal BSI cases.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This is a review of all neonatal fungal BSI cases between January 2007 and December 2011.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients were included in the study. Candida parapsilosis (54.2%) was isolated in majority of the cases, followed by C. albicans (27.1%). Fluconazole resistance was present in 16 of 32 cases of C. parapsilosis versus 1 of 16 cases of C. albicans (P = 0.003). Mortality rate was 45.8%. Surgical problems were present in 55.9%. Death was significantly associated with lower birth weight (P = 0.046) and necrotizing enterocolitis (P = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

The increase in neonatal fungal BSI and resistant organisms highlights the need to review use of routine empiric fluconazole and to implement preventive measures.

Epidemiology and predictive factors for early and late mortality in Candida bloodstream infections: a population-based surveillance in Spain

A prospective, multicentre, population-based surveillance programme for Candida bloodstream infections was implemented in five metropolitan areas of Spain to determine its incidence and the prevalence of antifungal resistance, and to identify predictors of death. Between May 2010 and April 2011, Candida isolates were centralized to a reference laboratory for species identification by DNA sequencing and for susceptibility testing by EUCAST reference procedure. Prognostic factors associated with early (0-7 days) and late (8-30 days) death were analysed using logistic regression modelling. We detected 773 episodes: annual incidence of 8.1 cases/100 000 inhabitants, 0.89/1000 admissions and 1.36/10 000 patient-days. Highest incidence was found in infants younger than 1 year (96.4/100 000 inhabitants). Candida albicans was the predominant species (45.4%), followed by Candida parapsilosis (24.9%), Candida glabrata (13.4%) and Candida tropicalis (7.7%). Overall, 79% of Candida isolates were susceptible to fluconazole. Cumulative mortality at 7 and 30 days after the first episode of candidaemia was 12.8% and 30.6%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that therapeutic measures within the first 48 h may improve early mortality: antifungal treatment (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.27-0.95) and central venous catheter removal (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21-0.87). Predictors of late death included host factors (e.g. patients' comorbid status and signs of organ dysfunction), primary source (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.03-2.61), and severe sepsis or septic shock (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.05-3.00). In Spain, the proportion of Candida isolates non-susceptible to fluconazole is higher than in previous reports. Early mortality may be improved with strict adherence to guidelines.

Recommendations for the management of candidemia in neonates in Latin America. Latin America Invasive Mycosis Network

Candidemia is one of the most frequent opportunistic mycoses worldwide. Limited epidemiological studies in Latin America indicate that incidence rates are higher in this region than in the Northern Hemisphere. Diagnosis is often made late in the infection, affecting the initiation of antifungal therapy. A more scientific approach, based on specific parameters, for diagnosis and management of candidemia in Latin America is warranted. 'Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of candidemia' are a series of manuscripts that have been developed by members of the Latin America Invasive Mycosis Network. They aim to provide a set of best-evidence recommendations for the diagnosis and management of candidemia. This publication, 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in neonates in Latin America', was written to provide guidance to healthcare professionals on the management of neonates who have, or who are at risk of, candidemia. Computerized searches of existing literature were performed by PubMed. The data were extensively reviewed and analyzed by members of the group. The group also met on two occasions to pose questions, discuss conflicting views, and deliberate on a series of management recommendations. 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in neonates in Latin America' includes prophylaxis, empirical therapy, therapy for proven candidemia, patient work-up following diagnosis of candidemia, central venous catheter management, and management of complications. This manuscript is the fourth of this series that deals with diagnosis and treatment of invasive candidiasis. Other publications in this series include: 'Recommendations for the diagnosis of candidemia in Latin America', 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in adults in Latin America', and 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in children in Latin America'.

[Recommendations for the management of candidemia in neonates in Latin America. Grupo Proyecto Épico]

Candidemia is one of the most frequent opportunistic mycoses worldwide. Limited epidemiological studies in Latin America indicate that incidence rates are higher in this region than in the Northern Hemisphere. Diagnosis is often made late in the infection, affecting the initiation of antifungal therapy. A more scientific approach, based on specific parameters, for diagnosis and management of candidemia in Latin America is warranted. 'Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of candidemia' are a series of manuscripts that have been developed by members of the Latin America Invasive Mycosis Network. They aim to provide a set of best-evidence recommendations for the diagnosis and management of candidemia. This publication, 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in neonates in Latin America', was written to provide guidance to healthcare professionals on the management of neonates who have, or who are at risk of, candidemia. Computerized searches of existing literature were performed by PubMed. The data were extensively reviewed and analyzed by members of the group. The group also met on two occasions to pose questions, discuss conflicting views, and deliberate on a series of management recommendations. 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in neonates in Latin America' includes prophylaxis, empirical therapy, therapy for proven candidemia, patient work-up following diagnosis of candidemia, central venous catheter management, and management of complications. This manuscript is the fourth of this series that deals with diagnosis and treatment of invasive candidiasis. Other publications in this series include: 'Recommendations for the diagnosis of candidemia in Latin America', 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in adults in Latin America', and 'Recommendations for the management of candidemia in children in Latin America'.

Candida parapsilosis is a significant neonatal pathogen: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Candida is the third most common cause of late-onset neonatal sepsis in infants born at <1500 g. Candida parapsilosis infections are increasingly reported in preterm neonates in association with indwelling catheters.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed neonatal literature and synthesized data pertaining to percentage of C. parapsilosis infections and mortality by meta-analyses. We also reviewed risk factors, virulence determinants, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and outlined clinical management strategies.

RESULTS

C. parapsilosis infections comprised 33.47% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 30.02, 37.31) of all neonatal Candida infections. C. parapsilosis rates were similar in studies performed before the year 2000, 33.53% (95% CI: 30.06, 37.40) (28 studies), to those after 2000, 27.00% (95% CI: 8.25, 88.37) (8 studies). The mortality due to neonatal C. parapsilosis infections was 10.02% (95% CI: 7.66, 13.12). Geographical variations in C. parapsilosis infections included a low incidence in Europe and higher incidence in North America and Australia. Biofilm formation was a significant virulence determinant and predominant risk factors for C. parapsilosis infections were prematurity, prior colonization and catheterization. Amphotericin B remains the antifungal drug of choice and combination therapy with caspofungin or other echinocandins may be considered in resistant cases.

CONCLUSION

C. parapsilosis is a significant neonatal pathogen, comprises a third of all Candida infections and is associated with 10% mortality. Availability of tools for genetic manipulation of this organism will identify virulence determinants and organism characteristics that may explain predilection for preterm neonates. Strategies to prevent horizontal transmission in the neonatal unit are paramount in decreasing infection rates.

Candida parapsilosis and the neonate: epidemiology, virulence and host defense in a unique patient setting

Invasive candidiasis is a common problem in premature infants that leads to high morbidity and mortality. Although Candida albicans has historically been the most prominent species involved in these infections and has therefore been the subject of the most study, Candida parapsilosis is increasing in frequency, and neonates are disproportionately affected. This article reviews unique aspects of the epidemiology of this organism as well as strategies for prophylaxis against invasive candidiasis in general. Additionally, important differences between C. parapsilosis and C. albicans are coming to light related to virulence determinants and interactions with components of host immunity. These developments are reviewed while highlighting the significant gaps in our understanding that remain to be elucidated.

[Age group, geographical incidence and patterns of antifungal susceptibility of Candida species causing candidemia in the Spanish paediatric population]

INTRODUCTION

There are few epidemiological studies on candidaemia in the paediatric population in Spain. We sought to determine the epidemiology of candidaemia in these patients.

METHODS

Prospective, observational and multicentre study in 44 Spanish hospitals. All candidaemia episodes in paediatric patients from 0 to 15 years old between January 2009 and February 2010 were studied.

RESULTS

There were 197 episodes and 200 species were isolated. The most frequent species was Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto (43%), followed by C. albicans (36%), C. tropicalis (6%), C. orthopsilosis, and C. glabrata (4%) respectively. C. albicans was the most prevalent in newborns, and C. parapsilosis was most frequent in the other age groups. As regards the regions of Spain, C. albicans was most prevalent in patients from Catalonia, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands, and C. parapsilosis in patients from Andalusia, Castilla-León, Galicia, Valencia, and Madrid. The rate of resistance to fluconazole was 1.5% (4.1% with the new species-specific Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute [CLSI] criteria). Fluconazole resistance was lower in neonates than the other age groups. The Neonatal Wards were the areas with most episodes (31.5%). In the multivariate analysis, the variables associated independently with candidaemia due to C. albicans were: catheter (OR: 5.967; 95% CI: 1.614-22.057; P=.007) and prematurity (OR: 2.229; 95% CI: 1.141- 4.631; P=.020).

CONCLUSIONS

The epidemiology of paediatric candidaemia varies between Spanish regions, but, globally, C. parapsilosis and C. albicans, are respectively, the first and second most frequently isolated species, and they show resistance rates to fluconazole of less than 5%.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anidulafungin for experimental Candida endophthalmitis: insights into the utility of echinocandins for treatment of a potentially sight-threatening infection

Candida chorioretinitis and endophthalmitis are relatively common manifestations of disseminated candidiasis. Anidulafungin is increasingly used for the treatment of disseminated candidiasis, but its efficacy for Candida endophthalmitis is not known. A nonneutropenic model of hematogenous Candida endophthalmitis was used. Anidulafungin at 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg was initiated at 48 h postinoculation. The fungal densities in the kidney and vitreous humor were determined. Anidulafungin concentrations in the plasma and vitreous humor were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). A pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model was used to link anidulafungin concentrations with the observed antifungal effect. The area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) associated with stasis was determined in the both the kidney and the vitreous humor. The results were bridged to humans to identify likely dosages that are associated with significant antifungal activity within the eye. Inoculation of Candida albicans resulted in logarithmic growth in both the vitreous humor and the kidney. The pharmacokinetics of anidulafungin were linear. There was dose-dependent penetration of the anidulafungin into the vitreous humor. The exposure-response relationships in the kidney and vitreous were completely discordant. AUCs of 270 and 100 were required for stasis in the eye and kidney, respectively. The currently licensed regimen results in an AUC for an average patient that is associated with stasis in the kidney but minimal antifungal activity in the eye. We conclude that anidulafungin penetrates the eye in a dose-dependent manner and that dosages higher than those currently licensed are required to achieve significant antifungal activity in the eye.

Canadian clinical practice guidelines for invasive candidiasis in adults

Candidemia and invasive candidiasis (C/IC) are life-threatening opportunistic infections that add excess morbidity, mortality and cost to the management of patients with a range of potentially curable underlying conditions. The Association of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease Canada developed evidence-based guidelines for the approach to the diagnosis and management of these infections in the ever-increasing population of at-risk adult patients in the health care system. Over the past few years, a new and broader understanding of the epidemiology and pathogenesis of C/IC has emerged and has been coupled with the availability of new antifungal agents and defined strategies for targeting groups at risk including, but not limited to, acute leukemia patients, hematopoietic stem cell transplants and solid organ transplants, and critical care unit patients. Accordingly, these guidelines have focused on patients at risk for C/IC, and on approaches of prevention, early therapy for suspected but unproven infection, and targeted therapy for probable and proven infection.

Neonatal candidiasis: results of an 8 year study

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the risk factors, demographic features, treatment and clinical outcome associated with candidemia in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) within an 8 year period.

METHODS

The data of infants who were diagnosed as having candidemia, were evaluated.

RESULTS

Between January 2000 and December 2007, a total of 28 candidemia episodes were identified in 28 infants. A 1.1% candidemia incidence was documented in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The species most frequently causing candidemia were Candida parapsilosis (57.1%), followed by C. albicans (42.9%). The main predisposing factors for candidemia with C. parapsilosis included presence of maternal pre-eclampsia, prematurity, prolonged mechanical ventilation, prolonged total parenteral nutrition and presence of jaundice. Retinopathy of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia were the most frequently seen underlying illnesses in infants with C. parapsilosis. In the present study, 13 infants (46.4%) had evidence of organ dissemination. The mortality rate was 42.8% in infants with candidemia. Mean leukocyte counts and mean C-reactive protein were significantly higher in neonates who died compared with those who survived.

CONCLUSION

Candida parapsilosis (57.1%) was the leading causative organism, followed by C. albicans (42.9%) in infants. The rate of organ dissemination in the present cases was high. The mortality rate was 42.8% in infants with candidemia.

Neonatal invasive candidiasis in Tunisian hospital: incidence, risk factors, distribution of species and antifungal susceptibility

The aim of our study was to assess epidemiological features of neonatal invasive candidiasis in Farhat Hached hospital of Sousse, Tunisia, including incidence, risk factors, mortality, species distribution and antifungal susceptibility. Laboratory data from 1995 to 2010 and medical records of 127 invasive candidiasis cases were reviewed. We tested the susceptibility of 100 Candida sp isolates by using ATB fungus(®) 3 and to fluconazole by using E-test(®) strips. A total of 252 cases of neonatal invasive candidiasis occurred over the study period. The incidence increased 1.8-fold from 1995 to 2006 and decreased fourfold from 2007 to 2010. Candida albicans was the predominant species up to 2006 and a shift in the species spectrum was observed with increase of the non-albicans species mainly C. parapsilosis. The agreement between the ATB Fungus(®) and the E-test(®) for determining fluconazole susceptibility was high. All tested isolates were susceptible to fluconazole, flucytosine, amphotéricine B and voriconazole and the itraconazole resistance rate was 5%. The mortality rate was 63%. The invasive candidiasis incidence increased from 1995 to 2006 and decreased from 2007 to 2010. The spectrum of Candida species and the lack of fluconazole-resistant strains argue for the usefulness of fluconazole as an empiric treatment.

Molecular characterization of Italian Candida parapsilosis isolates reveals the cryptic presence of the newly described species Candida orthopsilosis in blood cultures from newborns

The authors report the molecular characterization of Candida parapsilosis isolates recovered from the blood and venous central catheter tips of patients admitted to different care units of the Polyclinic Hospital, University of Messina, Italy. Among 97 presumed C. parapsilosis isolates examined, 94 were identified as C. parapsilosis sensu stricto and the remaining 3 isolates were found to belong to the cryptic species Candida orthopsilosis which was recovered only from blood cultures of neonates (<30 days old) born prematurely. No C. metapsilosis was found in this study. This study emphasizes the role of C. parapsilosis as an important nosocomial pathogen, and it also describes, for the first time, the occurrence of C. orthopsilosis in newborns.

Candida parapsilosis candidaemia in a neonatal unit over 7 years: a case series study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate Candida parapsilosis candidaemia in a neonatal unit over 7 years.

DESIGN

Case series study.

SETTING

A 2000-bed tertiary-care university hospital at São Paulo, Brazil.

PARTICIPANTS

Neonates hospitalised in a 63-bed neonatal unit.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

We evaluated the incidence of C parapsilosis fungemia in a neonatal unit from 2002 through 2008 and the main microbiological, clinical and epidemiological aspects of this disease in neonates. During the study period an outbreak occurred, an infection control programme was implemented, and isolates from blood and hand healthcare workers (HCWs) were submitted to molecular typing.

RESULTS

During 7 years, there were 36 cases of C parapsilosis fungaemia and annual incidence varied from 0 to 19.7 per 1000 admissions. Evaluating 31 neonates with fungemia, the mean age at diagnosis was 19 days. All children except for one were premature; all had received total parenteral nutrition and all but one had used central venous catheter. Three neonates had received antifungal treatment previously to the diagnosis. Thirty-day mortality was 45%. Only lower birthweight was associated with mortality. C parapsilosis species complex was isolated from hand cultures in eight (11%) of the HCWs (one isolate was identified as C orthopsilosis). By molecular typing no HCW isolate was similar to any of the blood isolates.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of C parapsilosis fungemia in a neonatal unit varied widely over 7 years. We observed in our series a higher death rate than that reported in European countries and the USA.

Neonatal intensive care unit candidemia: epidemiology, risk factors, outcome, and critical review of published case series

Evaluation of epidemiological trends, risk factors, and clinical outcome associated with candidemia at a neonatal intensive care unit is reported. From January 2005 to December 2009, forty candidemia cases were identified. C. albicans and C. parapsilosis were the most common species recovered (69 and 24%, respectively). All C. parapsilosis strains were susceptible to antifungals, whereas, C. albicans exhibited higher resistance rates to azoles. Low birth weight, low gestational age, presence of central lines, endotracheal intubation, total parenteral nutrition, previous use of antibiotics, steroids, previous episode(s) of bacteremia and prolonged stay in intensive care unit were common features associated with candidemia. C. albicans was most often isolated from extremely low birth weight neonates as compared to non-albicans Candida (P < 0.01). Mortality rate was 35.7% and was associated with low gestational age (P < 0.01), low birth weight (P < 0.01), and presence of renal failure (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a critical review of recent published case series is presented.

[Scientific evidence supporting the use of micafungin in the treatment of invasive candidiasis]

Micafungin is a semisynthetic lipopeptide developed from Coleophoma empetri, which blocks the synthesis of β-1,3-D-glucan, an essential component of the fungal wall, though non-competitive inhibition of β-1,3-D-glucan synthetase. Micafungin is a dose-dependent candidacidal agent with excellent in vitro efficacy against most Candida spp. including species resistant to amphotericin B, such as Candida lusitaniae, several azoles, such as C. glabrata or C. krusei, and isolates not susceptible to other echinocandins. Moreover, this drug is active against Candida biofilms. Micafungin is a first-line drug for the treatment of candidemias and invasive candidiasis in adults and children (including neonates). This drug is approved for use in the treatment of invasive candidiasis and Candida esophagitis, as well as in the prophylaxis of Candida infections in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients or those at risk of prolonged neutropenia. Micafungin can be used both in the treatment and prevention of candidiasis in neonates, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, making it highly useful in patient groups in which the use of other antifungal drugs has not been authorized.

A single-centre 10-year experience with Candida bloodstream infections

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical and microbiological features associated with Candida bloodstream infections observed at Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont (Montreal, Quebec) between August 1996 and July 2006.

METHODS

Episodes were retrieved from the microbiology laboratory. Different patient episodes and different isolate episodes in the same patient were selected. Antifungal susceptibility was determined by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute's (USA) M27A2 method.

RESULTS

A total of 190 different episodes of candidemia in 185 patients were identified. Eleven (6%) episodes occurred in outpatients. Candida albicans was identified in the majority of episodes (57%). Its frequency remained stable over the years. The proportion of Candida krusei candidemia episodes increased between 2003 and 2006, but this was not statistically significant. A central venous indwelling catheter or a peripherally inserted central catheter line was present in the majority of patients (167 [88%]). Of the indwelling catheters removed at the time of diagnosis, 39% were positive for Candida species on culture. Overall, voriconazole was the most active agent (the minimum inhibitory concentration required to inhibit the growth of 90% of organisms was 0.5 mg/L). Resistance to fluconazole was observed in 26 (14%) isolates (C albicans, 4%; versus non-albicans Candida species, 27%; P<0.001). Being on the hematology-oncology unit at the time of diagnosis (adjusted OR 7.8; 95% CI 2.3 to 27.1; P=0.001) and having received fluconazole or itraconazole within the past three months (adjusted OR 8.3; 95% CI 2.8 to 24.4; P<0.001) were significantly associated with resistance to fluconazole in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

At Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, the frequency and species distribution of blood isolates of Candida remained stable over the past decade. In vitro resistance of C albicans to fluconazole and itraconazole remained minimal; resistance of non-albicans Candida species to fluconazole did not increase significantly. The new antifungal agents all had high in vitro activity against the bloodstream Candida isolates.

[Guidelines for the treatment of Invasive Candidiasis and other yeasts. Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC). 2010 Update]

These guidelines are an update of the recommendations of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC) that were issued in 2004 (Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin. 2004, 22:32-9) on the treatment of Invasive Candidiasis and infections produced by other yeasts. This 2010 update includes a comprehensive review of the new drugs that have appeared in recent years, as well as the levels of evidence for recommending them. These guidelines have been developed following the rules of the SEIMC by a working group composed of specialists in infectious diseases, clinical microbiology, critical care medicine, paediatrics and oncology-haematology. It provides a series of general recommendations regarding the management of invasive candidiasis and other yeast infections, as well as specific guidelines for prophylaxis and treatment, which have been divided into four sections: oncology-haematology, solid organ transplantation recipients, critical patients, and paediatric patients.

Predictors of candidaemia caused by non-albicans Candida species: results of a population-based surveillance in Barcelona, Spain

Although Candida albicans (CA) is the most common cause of Candida bloodstream infections (BSIs), recent studies have observed an increasing percentage of candidaemias caused by non-albicans Candida species (NAC). In the present study, we attempted to identify the predictors of candidaemia due to NAC compared to CA. We analyzed data from an active population-based surveillance in Barcelona (Spain) from January 2002 to December 2003. Factors associated with NAC fungaemia were determined by multivariate analysis. A total of 339 episodes of Candida BSI, in 336 patients (median age 63 years, interquartile range: 41-72 years), were included. CA was the most commonly isolated (52%), followed by Candida parapsilosis (23%), Candida tropicalis (10%), Candida glabrata (8.6%), Candida krusei (3.4%) and other NAC spp. (3%).Overall, 48% of cases were due to NAC spp. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with a risk of BSI due to NAC spp.: having received a haematologic transplant (OR 10.8; 95% CI 1.31-90.01; p 0.027), previous fluconazole exposure (OR 4.47; 95% CI 2.12-9.43; p <0.001) and neonatal age (OR 4.42; 95% CI 1.63-12.04; p 0.004). Conversely, previous CA colonization (OR 0.33; 95% CI 0.19-0.57; p 0.001) and previous antibiotic use (OR 0.42; 95% CI 0.21-0.85; p 0.017) were associated with CA fungaemia compared to NAC. In conclusion, NAC candidaemia comprised 48% of cases in our series. Predictors of NAC include having received a haematologic transplant, neonatal age and previous fluconazole use.

[The Spanish Society of Paediatric Infectious Diseases (SEIP) recommendations on the diagnosis and management of invasive candidiasis]

Candida yeasts are ubiquitous commensals, which can cause opportunistic infection in any location of the body. The source of infection may be both endogenous and exogenous. Invasive candidiasis encompasses different entities ranging from invasive candidiasis to disseminated multiorgan infection. Invasive candidiasis is the third leading cause of nosocomial bloodstream infection and the fourth of all nosocomial infections. It is also the most common invasive fungal infection in non-neutropenic critically ill patients, with a remarkable increase in the last 20 years owing to the increased survival of these patients and to more complex diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical procedures. Its incidence in infants, according to recent reviews, stands at 38.8 cases/100,000 children younger than 1 year. Candida albicans remains the most frequent isolate in invasive infections, although infections caused by other species have risen in the last years, such as C. kruzsei, C. glabrata and C. parapsilosis; the latter causing invasive candidiasis mainly associated with central venous catheter management, especially in neonatal units. The overall mortality of invasive candidiasis is high, with 30-day mortality reaching 20-44% in some series involving paediatric patients. This report provides an update on incidence, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of invasive infection by Candida spp. in the paediatric patient.

Declining incidence of neonatal endophthalmitis in the United States

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence of neonatal endogenous endophthalmitis in the United States between 1998 and 2006 and to identify associated risk factors.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database, a 20% representative sample of all hospital discharges in the United States, to help refine our understanding of this condition. International Classification of Diseases, ninth edition, codes for endophthalmitis, sepsis, and suspected endophthalmitis risk factors in hospitalized infants and neonates were searched in the database and were tracked over time. The main outcome measure was incidence of neonatal endophthalmitis over the study period.

RESULTS

Of 3.64 million live births in 1998, 317 newborns were identified with endophthalmitis (8.71 cases per 100 000 live births). Of 4.14 million live births in 2006, only 183 newborns were identified with endophthalmitis (4.42 cases per 100 000 live births) by comparison. The incidence of endophthalmitis decreased at a rate of 6% per year (P = .01130) between 1998 and 2006. Neonates with endophthalmitis were more likely to have systemic bacteremia (odds ratio, 21.114; P < .0001), Candidemia (odds ratio, 2.356; P < .0001), a birth weight of less than 1500 g (odds ratio, 1.215; P < .0001), and retinopathy of prematurity (odds ratio, 2.052; P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

We objectively validated the commonly held belief that Candidemia, bacteremia, retinopathy of prematurity, and low birth weight are significant risk factors for endophthalmitis development in infants, which seems to have had a decreasing incidence in recent years.