Antifungal prophylaxis in neonatal intensive care units

Survival of extremely preterm babies is increasing and invasive fungal infection is an emerging problem in this vulnerable population. Fungal sepsis is associated with a higher mortality and worse neurodevelopmental outcome than bacterial sepsis alone. The reported incidence varies widely amongst units. Prophylactic antifungal drugs reduce fungal colonisation and infection rates in very low birthweight babies. In this review we discuss the potential benefits and risks of fungal prophylaxis.