Congenital cutaneous candidiasis

Diffuse papulopustular eruption in a newborn

“…Congenital cutaneous candidiasis (CCC) is a rarely reported disorder, with fewer than 150 case reports in literature. It is estimated to occur in approximately 0.1% of neonatal intensive care unit admissions and is more common in premature and low‐birth‐weight (<1000 g) infants . In healthy newborns, the incidence may be underreported because the condition can follow a benign, self‐limited course…”

“…Cervical cerclage and intrauterine devices represent risk factors for development . CCC typically has a benign course, with skin‐limited disease and self‐resolution, particularly in full‐term infants, although it can be associated with systemic disease, especially in premature and low‐birth‐weight infants . Infection can disseminate to the lungs, blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, manifesting with respiratory distress and sepsis.…”

“…In premature, low‐birth‐weight infants, diffuse desquamation and erosive presentations have also been reported. To contrast, acquired cutaneous candidiasis, which typically arises after the first week of life, is primarily limited to intertriginous regions …”

“…Treatment depends on severity of disease. Systemic treatment is recommended in those with symptoms of systemic disease, although empiric antifungal therapy at onset of cutaneous findings has been shown to prevent dissemination and reduce mortality …”

Congenital Candidiasis in a Preterm Neonate: Raising Awareness of a Rare and Unpredictable Disease

“…It can present as diffuse rashes that prompt systemic antifungal treatment to prevent dissemination and candida-related mortality [2]. The disease indicates intrauterine infection if present at birth [3]. It can easily be mistaken for other benign neonatal skin eruptions, especially if the mother has a normal vaginal culture or has been adequately treated for fungal infections.…”