Currently available connectors for IV lines are not well protected against contamination. This also pertains to urinary and peritoneal catheters, as well as any other infusion or drainage system. The male portions of the connectors are particularly vulnerable to accidental contact with the environment, eg, the fingers of caretakers or the patient himself under the conditions of home therapy. Contamination of catheter hubs is well-documented and has recently been implicated as a cause of nosocomial infections with Malassezia furfur in neonates.