[Treatment of severe Candida infections with ketoconazole in newborn and young infants].

Ketoconazole (6.5-9 mg/kg daily) was used for treatment of ten newborn infants and babies with severe Candida infections for a period of approximately 28 (19-42) days. Cure of infection was seen in all patients. Ketoconazole seems, more frequently than in adults, to lead to hepatotoxic reactions in early childhood, particularly with preexisting liver damage. Rigorous controls of liver function are mandatory before and during treatment. Particularly in newborn infants and babies precise indications and careful benefit-risk assessment are essential.