First report of Candida sojae sepsis in a preterm infant; A new fungal threat in neonatal care.

Background and purpose: Very low birth weight neonates are at high risk of invasive infections, including invasive candidiasis, which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida tropicalis are well-known fungal pathogens in these neonates, Candida sojae has been recently reported as a new agent of invasive candidiasis.

Case report: This study aimed to report a very low birth weight preterm neonate who had septicemia due to C. sojae. In this neonate, immature immune and gastrointestinal systems, prolonged parenteral nutrition due to feeding intolerance, central venous catheter, and broad-spectrum antibiotic use were risk factors leading to sepsis with C. sojae. The neonate recovered completely with timely antifungal treatment.

Conclusion: This case emphasized the need to be aware of C. sojae as an emerging neonatal pathogen in preterm infants.