National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS)
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PRINT ISSN : 2319-7692
Online ISSN : 2319-7706 Issues : 12 per year Publisher : Excellent Publishers Email : editorijcmas@gmail.com / submit@ijcmas.com Editor-in-chief: Dr.M.Prakash Index Copernicus ICV 2018: 95.39 NAAS RATING 2020: 5.38 |
Neonatal candidemia is an emerging cause of bloodstream infections in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), particularly among preterm and low birth weight infants. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, species distribution, and associated risk factors of neonatal candidemia in a tertiary care hospital in North India. A hospital-based observational study was conducted over one year (August 2024–July 2025) at Government Medical College, Jammu, in collaboration with the NICUs of Shri Maharaja Gulab Singh Hospital. A total of 4,520 neonates were screened. Blood samples were collected under strict aseptic precautions and processed using conventional culture techniques. Candida isolates were identified by germ tube test, CHROMagar Candida, and sugar fermentation and assimilation tests. Clinical and demographic data were analyzed using SPSS, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Ninety-eight cases of candidemia were identified. Male predominance was observed (68.9%), with most cases occurring within the first 10 days of life. Low birth weight (75.5%) and prematurity (74.4%) were common. Universal prior exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics was noted. Non-albicans Candida species predominated (93.8%), with Candida tropicalis emerging as the most frequent isolate. Additional risk factors included intravenous cannulation and ventilator support. Neonatal candidemia in this setting is strongly associated with prematurity, low birth weight, invasive interventions, and prior antibiotic exposure. The predominance of non-albicans Candida, particularly C. tropicalis, underscores an evolving epidemiological trend. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship and infection control practices is essential to reduce morbidity and improve neonatal outcomes.
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