Neonatal leukemoid reaction associated with Candida albicans chorioamnionitis

Chorioamnionitis due to Candida species is relatively rare, despite the high prevalence (20-25%) of Candida vulvovaginitis during pregnancy. We describe a case of neonatal leukemoid reaction (NLR) associated with Candida albicans chorioamnionitis. A male infant was born at 31 weeks' gestation and weighed 1864g. Laboratory tests at birth indicated marked leukocytosis (i.e. total leukocyte count 89.8x10(9)/L including 66% polymorphonuclear leukocytes and 15% band forms). Samples of the infant's pharyngeal mucus and tracheal aspirate were positive for Candida 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.