Candida sepsis in pregnancy and the postpartum period

Abstract

Colonization of the vagina by Candida is common during pregnancy, while candida sepsis in pregnancy is rare. A case of candida sepsis complicating an abortion prompted us to review seven additional cases that occurred during pregnancy or the postpartum period. In four women candidemia developed during pregnancy or following abortion, while in the other four it developed postpartum. Seven women had an apparent predisposing factor, such as antibiotic treatment or an intrauterine device. The clinical course was difficult in four patients and ended in death in three instances. Both amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine proved effective for treatment.

PIP: Even though the isolation rate of Candida species in the vagina stands at 30% during pregnancy, only 8 cases of candida sepsis connected with pregnancy were documented as of early 1991. Effective antifungal treatment began in 1956 and the 1st reported case was in 1954. She and the next 2 cases (1962 and 1971) did not recover. Possible predisposing factors in the 8 cases included antibiotic treatment, especially those in the beta lactam group; and IUD in situ; and intravenous (IV) line; or a urinary catheter. (Presumably antibiotics encourage C. albicans growth and pathogenicity. Foreign objects provide a portal of entry or a foothold for Candida.) In fact, a combination of these factors probably fostered candida sepsis in 4 cases. The 4 mildest cases experienced fever and impaired liver functions or reduced vision. 1 case had a hysterectomy. 2 had generalized convulsions. The 4 more severe cases experienced pneumonia, acute renal failure, osteomyelitis, or shock. In Haifa, Israel, physicians admitted a 24 year old woman with a fever to the Bnai Zion Medical Center for a presumed septic abortion at 15 weeks gestation. They performed a dilation and curettage (D&C) which included removal of an IUD. Laboratory personnel cultured the contents and later blood since her temperature rose .7 degrees. They started IV antibiotic treatment to no avail. Later her temperature hit 40 degrees Celsius and on day 5 she had convulsions. 1 blood sample and D&C materials grew C. albicans. They also observed multiple chorioretinal cotton wool lesions typical of Candida. They changed her medication to the antifungal medication, amphotericin B. Before discharge, they also prescribed 5-fluorocytosine. She had decreased hearing in the right ear, many hot spots over the iliac crests and thoracic vertebrae, and almost complete destruction of the body of D7 in the spine. She completely recovered.