Abstract
Background and Objectives: Candida colonization in neonates with low birth weight is reported to be the first step for invasive candidiasis. This study was designed to describe the patterns of Candida spp. colonizing neonates with low birth weight in Mwanza, Tanzania to provide baseline information for future studies in this field. Methodology: The hospital based cross sectional study was conducted between January 2019 and April 2019 among neonates with low birth weight. Clinical and social demographic data were collected using interview guide questionnaire. Oral and umbilical rectal swabs were collected on the first and seventh day of life to assess Candida spp. colonization status. Data were analyzed using STATA version 13 following the study objectives. Results: A total of 320 neonates with median body weight of 1600 [IQR 1000 - 2000] grams were enrolled. Prevalence of Candida spp. colonization on either oral, umbilical or rectum was 16.2% (52/320). A total of 34 (10.6%) and 41 (12.8%) neonates were colonized by Candida spp. on the first day and seventh day of life, respectively. Of 34 neonates colonized on the first day of life, 23 (67.7%) were still being colonized on the seventh day. Candida albicans 38 (73.1%), was the predominant species detected followed by Candida glabrata 10 (19.2%). Conclusion: The prevalence of Candida spp. colonization among neonates with low birth weight is within the reported range and is mainly due to Candida albicans. Future studies are highly needed to explore the role of colonization and subsequent Candida spp. infections.
Highlights
The leading cause of neonatal deaths is infection with 10% reported to be due to Candida spp. [1] [2]
The prevalence of Candida spp. colonization among neonates with low birth weight is within the reported range and is mainly due to Candida albicans
Future studies are highly needed to explore the role of colonization and subsequent Candida spp. infections
Summary
The leading cause of neonatal deaths is infection with 10% reported to be due to Candida spp. [1] [2]. Studies have shown 7% - 25% of low birth weight neonates are colonized by Candida spp. and are at high risk of developing invasive candidiasis [5] [6]. The neonatal Candida spp. colonization was reported in a study conducted in India to be significantly more in neonates with low birth weight < 1500 gram with prevalence of 33.3% compared to the prevalence of 10% among neonates with birth weight > 1500 gram [9]. Candida colonization in neonates with low birth weight is reported to be the first step for invasive candidiasis. Conclusion: The prevalence of Candida spp. colonization among neonates with low birth weight is within the reported range and is mainly due to Candida albicans. Future studies are highly needed to explore the role of colonization and subsequent Candida spp. infections
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
