A Case of Candida Endocarditis with Vegetation on the Tricuspid Valve in a Preterm Infnat

ABSTRACT

Fungal endocarditis is a rare disease in infants, but it has been reported with increasing frequency among premature infants requiring neonatal intensive care. Congenital heart disease, pro- longed intravenous catheterization, the use of intravenous alimentation, broad-spectrum antibiotics administration and narcotic addiction are risk factors. Candida endocarditis is an unusual but severe complication of systemic candidiasis. Its occurrence has been related to the placement of a central venous catheter with its tip close to or within the right atrium and persistent candidemia. Embolization to major blood vessels is a common complication of Candida endocarditis and repeated pulmonary emboli are suspected to be cause of the repeated episodes of circulatory shock which finally leads to death. Thus, early diagnosis of Candida invasion and prevention of Candida endocarditis are essential for survival. We report a case of Candida endocarditis which was successfully managed with surgical removal and antifungal therapy. (J Korean Pediatr Soc 2000;43832 836)