Association of high levels of alpha-defensins and S100A proteins with Candida mannan detection in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of preterm neonates

METHODS: BALF specimens were collected during the first 48h of life from mechanically ventilated preterm newborns. Samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry. The relative amounts of alpha-defensins 1-4 and S100A proteins were measured by extracted ion current peak area. Absolute and differential white cell counts in BALF were obtained. Mn antigen concentrations were determined by the Platelia Candida antigen kit.