Candida Septicemia and Right Atrial Mass Secondary to Umbilical Vein Catheterization

Abstract

<i>Candida</i>infections have been recognized as a potential complication of central venous catheters used for intravenous alimentation.^1,2These infections may be accompanied by endocarditis, usually involving right-sided heart structures.^3,4We have recently had the opportunity to care for an infant with<i>Candida</i>septicemia who had an unusual focus of infection. <i>Report of a Case.</i>—A 1,900-g male infant was delivered vaginally at 34 weeks' gestation. Respiratory distress developed early, and the infant required positive-pressure ventilation on the first day of life. At that time, umbilical venous and arterial catheters were placed. Cultures of blood and urine were obtained, and ampicillin sodium and gentamicin sulfate therapy were started for suspected sepsis. The umbilical venous catheter was positioned with its tip at the junction of the inferior vena cava and right atrium. Parenteral nutrition was administered through this line beginning on the third day of life. Although initial cultures were