Neonatal leukemoid reaction associated with C andida albicans chorioamnionitis

Chorioamnionitis due to C andida species is relatively rare, despite the high prevalence (20–25%) of C andida vulvovaginitis during pregnancy. We describe a case of neonatal leukemoid reaction ( NLR ) associated with C andida albicans chorioamnionitis. A male infant was born at 31 weeks' gestation and weighed 1864 g. Laboratory tests at birth indicated marked leukocytosis (i.e. total leukocyte count 89.8 × 10 9 /L including 66% polymorphonuclear leukocytes and 15% band forms). Samples of the infant's pharyngeal mucus and tracheal aspirate were positive for C andida albicans . On further histopathology of the placenta, C . albicans mycelia had invaded the placenta, chorioamniotic membrane, and umbilical cord. Although it is not very common, C . albicans chorioamnionitis should be considered in preterm infants with NLR .