Introduction: Candida infection is a severe complication among VLBW babies. The aim of this prospective observational study was to find the incidence and risk factors for candidiasis in VLBWs admitted in NICU.
Material and methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Government Medical College Amritsar (Punjab) India over one year and included all VLBW babies admitted in NICU during the study period.
The baseline variables, treatment and interventions done were recorded and analysed statistically to find the associated risk factors. Blood and urine specimens were sent to microbiology lab for Candida species identification and sensitivity pattern. The incidence per 1000 patient and per 1000 device days was calculated.
Results: Out of 131 VLBW neonates, 91 completed the study. Incidence of Candida sepsis was 8.04/1000 patient days. On multiple logistic regression analysis, sepsis, shock and oral thrush were found to be independent risk factors for candidiasis. Duration of antibiotics, duration of IVF, TPN, stay in NICU and duration of invasive ventilation had positive correlation with Candidiasis. Mortality related to Candida infection was 23%.
Conclusion: Incidence of Candida sepsis was high and contributed to mortality as well. Asepsis and decreasing the duration of antibiotics and invasive interventions can help in decreasing the incidence of candidiasis.
