CORRELATION OF RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH FUNGAL SEPSIS IN NEONATES ADMITTED TO NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT. A ONE YEAR HOSPITAL BASED OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Systemic fungal infections, occurs in 5% of low birth weight babies admitted to NICU. Candida species commonly causes Neonatal nosocomial bloodstream infections, especially in premature infants. The mortality is as high as 50% for fungal sepsis and the disability due to neurodevelopmental impairment poses a significant burden. Hence the early identification and appropriate empirical therapy specific to the regional prevalence, among the high-risk neonates is essential. Objectives: I. Primary Objective: To assess the correlation of risk factors associated with fungal sepsis in neonates admitted to NICU. II. Secondary Objectives: To assess the prevalence of candida subspecies. To compare clinical outcome of albicans and non-albicans candida species. To study the antifungal sensitivity pattern