Systemic candidiasis in four foals.

Abstract

Four foals were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit in the first 2 days of life with problems related to birth hypoxia (neonatal maladjustment syndrome, renal failure, necrotizing enterocolitis) and sepsis. Foals were hospitalized for an extended period (35 to 70 days) and received treatment with several broad spectrum antimicrobial agents. Invasive monitoring and treatment procedures included intravenous catheterization, urinary catheterization, and parenteral nutritional and ventilatory support. In each foal, infections of undetermined cause developed, and systemic candidiasis was diagnosed after Candida albicans was isolated from specimens obtained from 1 or more internal sites. The 3 foals in which treatment was attempted responded well to IV administration of amphotericin B and/or oral administration of fluconazole, and were discharged from the hospital.