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Karageorgiou V, Casanova F, O'Loughlin J, Green H, McKinley TJ, Bowden J, Tyrrell J. Body mass index and inflammation in depression and treatment-resistant depression: a Mendelian randomisation study. BMC Med 2023; 21:355. [PMID: 37710313 PMCID: PMC10502981 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03001-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) has a significant impact on global burden of disease. Complications in clinical management can occur when response to pharmacological modalities is considered inadequate and symptoms persist (treatment-resistant depression (TRD)). We aim to investigate inflammation, proxied by C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and body mass index (BMI) as putative causal risk factors for depression and subsequent treatment resistance, leveraging genetic information to avoid confounding via Mendelian randomisation (MR). METHODS We used the European UK Biobank subcohort ([Formula: see text]), the mental health questionnaire (MHQ) and clinical records. For treatment resistance, a previously curated phenotype based on general practitioner (GP) records and prescription data was employed. We applied univariable and multivariable MR models to genetically predict the exposures and assess their causal contribution to a range of depression outcomes. We used a range of univariable, multivariable and mediation MR models techniques to address our research question with maximum rigour. In addition, we developed a novel statistical procedure to apply pleiotropy-robust multivariable MR to one sample data and employed a Bayesian bootstrap procedure to accurately quantify estimate uncertainty in mediation analysis which outperforms standard approaches in sparse binary outcomes. Given the flexibility of the one-sample design, we evaluated age and sex as moderators of the effects. RESULTS In univariable MR models, genetically predicted BMI was positively associated with depression outcomes, including MDD ([Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text] CI): 0.133(0.072, 0.205)) and TRD (0.347(0.002, 0.682)), with a larger magnitude in females and with age acting as a moderator of the effect of BMI on severity of depression (0.22(0.050, 0.389)). Multivariable MR analyses suggested an independent causal effect of BMI on TRD not through CRP (0.395(0.004, 0.732)). Our mediation analyses suggested that the effect of CRP on severity of depression was partly mediated by BMI. Individuals with TRD ([Formula: see text]) observationally had higher CRP and BMI compared with individuals with MDD alone and healthy controls. DISCUSSION Our work supports the assertion that BMI exerts a causal effect on a range of clinical and questionnaire-based depression phenotypes, with the effect being stronger in females and in younger individuals. We show that this effect is independent of inflammation proxied by CRP levels as the effects of CRP do not persist when jointly estimated with BMI. This is consistent with previous evidence suggesting that overweight contributed to depression even in the absence of any metabolic consequences. It appears that BMI exerts an effect on TRD that persists when we account for BMI influencing MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Harry Green
- College of Medicine & Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Jack Bowden
- College of Medicine & Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- Genetics Department, Novo Nordisk Research Centre Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jessica Tyrrell
- College of Medicine & Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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Sinha S, Kumar S, Narwaria M, Singh A, Haque M. Severe Acute Bronchial Asthma with Sepsis: Determining the Status of Biomarkers in the Diagnosis of the Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2691. [PMID: 37627950 PMCID: PMC10453001 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13162691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Bronchial asthma is a widely prevalent illness that substantially impacts an individual's health standard worldwide and has a significant financial impact on society. Global guidelines for managing asthma do not recommend the routine use of antimicrobial agents because most episodes of the condition are linked to viral respiratory tract infections (RTI), and bacterial infection appears to have an insignificant impact. However, antibiotics are recommended when there is a high-grade fever, a consolidation on the chest radiograph, and purulent sputum that contains polymorphs rather than eosinophils. Managing acute bronchial asthma with sepsis, specifically the choice of whether or not to initiate antimicrobial treatment, remains difficult since there are currently no practical clinical or radiological markers that allow for a simple distinction between viral and bacterial infections. Researchers found that serum procalcitonin (PCT) values can efficiently and safely minimize antibiotic usage in individuals with severe acute asthma. Again, the clinical manifestations of acute asthma and bacterial RTI are similar, as are frequently used test values, like C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) count, making it harder for doctors to differentiate between viral and bacterial infections in asthma patients. The role and scope of each biomarker have not been precisely defined yet, although they have all been established to aid healthcare professionals in their diagnostics and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susmita Sinha
- Department of Physiology, Khulna City Medical College and Hospital, 33 KDA Avenue, Hotel Royal Crossing, Khulna Sadar, Khulna 9100, Bangladesh
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Department of Periodontology, Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar 382422, Gujarat, India
| | - Mahendra Narwaria
- Asian Bariatrics Plus Hospital, V Wing-Mondeal Business Park, SG Highways, Ahmedabad 380054, Gujarat, India
| | - Arya Singh
- Asian Bariatrics Plus Hospital, V Wing-Mondeal Business Park, SG Highways, Ahmedabad 380054, Gujarat, India
| | - Mainul Haque
- The Unit of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
- Department of Scientific Research Center (KSRC), Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar 382422, Gujarat, India
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Narayana YV, Chhapola V, Tiwari S, Debnath E, Aggarwal M, Prakash O. Diagnosis of bacterial infection in children with relapse of nephrotic syndrome: a personalized decision-analytic nomogram and decision curve analysis. Pediatr Nephrol 2023; 38:2689-2698. [PMID: 36867266 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-023-05915-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections associated with nephrotic relapses (NR) are often managed according to physician preferences. A validated prediction tool will aid clinical decision-making and help in rationalizing antibiotic prescriptions. Our objective was to develop a biomarker-based prediction model and a regression nomogram for the prediction of the probability of infection in children with NR. We also aimed to perform a decision curve analysis (DCA). METHODS This cross-sectional study included children (1-18 years) with NR. The outcome of interest was the presence of bacterial infection as diagnosed using standard clinical definitions. Total leucocyte count (TLC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), quantitative C-reactive protein (qCRP), and procalcitonin (PCT) were the biomarker predictors. Logistic regression was used to identify the best biomarker model, followed by discrimination and calibration testing. Subsequently, a probability nomogram was constructed and DCA was done to determine the clinical utility and net benefits. RESULTS We included 150 relapse episodes. A bacterial infection was diagnosed in 35%. Multivariate analysis showed the ANC + qCRP model to be the best predictive model. This model displayed excellent discrimination (AUC: 0.83), and calibration (optimism-adjusted intercept: 0.015, slope: 0.926). A prediction nomogram and web-application was developed. The superiority of the model was also confirmed by DCA in the probability threshold range of 15-60%. CONCLUSIONS An ANC-based and qCRP-based internally validated nomogram can be used for the prediction of probability of infection in non-critically ill children with NR. Decision curves from this study will aid in the decision-making of empirical antibiotic therapy, incorporating threshold probabilities as a surrogate of physician preference. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Venkata Narayana
- Department of Pediatrics, Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital & Lady Hardinge Medical College, Bangla Sahib Road, New Delhi, India, 110001
| | - Viswas Chhapola
- Department of Pediatrics, Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital & Lady Hardinge Medical College, Bangla Sahib Road, New Delhi, India, 110001
| | - Soumya Tiwari
- Department of Pediatrics, Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital & Lady Hardinge Medical College, Bangla Sahib Road, New Delhi, India, 110001.
| | - Ekta Debnath
- Department of Biochemistry, Lady Hardinge Medical College, Bangla Sahib Road, New Delhi, India, 110001
| | - Meenakshi Aggarwal
- Department of Microbiology, Lady Hardinge Medical College, Bangla Sahib Road, New Delhi, India, 110001
| | - Om Prakash
- Post-Doctoral Fellow, The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), CIT Campus, 4Th Cross St, Tharamani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, 600113
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Tran HH, Nguyen HAT, Tran HB, Vu BNT, Nguyen TCT, Tacoli C, Tran TP, Trinh TS, Cai THN, Nadjm B, Tran KHT, Pham QD, Nguyen THT, Nguyen TT, Pham TD, Kesteman T, Dang DA, Tran TD, van Doorn HR, Lewycka S. Feasibility, acceptability, and bacterial recovery for community-based sample collection to estimate antibiotic resistance in commensal gut and upper respiratory tract bacteria. Sci Rep 2022; 12:22512. [PMID: 36581706 PMCID: PMC9797900 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-27084-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Vietnam has high rates of antibiotic use and resistance. Measuring resistance in commensal bacteria could provide an objective indicator for evaluating the impact of interventions to reduce antibiotic use and resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and bacterial recovery for different sampling strategies. We conducted a cross-sectional mixed methods study in a rural community in Ha Nam Province, northern Vietnam, and collected structured interviews, samples, and in-depth interviews from households. Out of 389 households invited, 324 participated (83%), representing 1502 individuals. Samples were collected from these individuals (1498 stool, 1002 self-administered nasal swabs, and 496 HW-administered nasopharyngeal swabs). Pneumococci were recovered from 11.1% (128/1149) of the total population and 26.2% (48/183) of those under 5-years. Recovery was higher for health-worker (HW)-administered swabs (13.7%, 48/350) than self-administered swabs (10.0%, 80/799) (OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.07-3.96). Cost per swab was cheaper for self-administered ($7.26) than HW-administered ($8.63) swabs, but the overall cost for 100 positive samples was higher ($7260 and $6300 respectively). Qualitative interviews revealed that HW-administered nasopharyngeal swabs took longer to collect, caused more discomfort, and were more difficult to take from children. Factors affecting participation included sense of contribution, perceived trade-offs between benefits and effort, and peer influence. Reluctance was related to stool sampling and negative perceptions of research. This study provides important evidence for planning community-based carriage studies, including cost, logistics, and acceptability. Self-administered swabs had lower recovery, and though cheaper and quicker, this would translate to higher costs for large population-based studies. Recovery might be improved by swab-type, transport medium, and better cold-chain to lab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Huy Tran
- National Institute for Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tung Son Trinh
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Behzad Nadjm
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam.,Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at the London, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Serekunda, The Gambia
| | | | | | | | | | - Thai Duy Pham
- National Institute for Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thomas Kesteman
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Duc Anh Dang
- National Institute for Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tien Dac Tran
- Centre for Disease Control, Phu Ly, Ha Nam Province, Vietnam
| | - H Rogier van Doorn
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sonia Lewycka
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam. .,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Bonko MDA, Karama I, Kiemde F, Lompo P, Garba Z, Yougbaré S, Mens PF, Tinto H, Tahita MC, Schallig HDFH. Could combined rapid diagnostic testing for malaria and c-reactive protein be helpful for the diagnosis and management of febrile illnesses in children under-5 years of age in rural Burkina Faso? BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:952. [PMID: 36536340 PMCID: PMC9764475 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07638-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Febrile illnesses are among the most important reasons for medical consultation in sub-Saharan Africa and are frequently treated with antimicrobials due to the unavailability of appropriate diagnostic tools. This practice leads to antimicrobial resistance, with increasing mortality and morbidity as result. One of the few accessible diagnostic tools available in low resource settings is malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) which contributed to reducing the over-prescription of anti-malarials, but cannot guide antibiotic prescriptions. To circumvent this problem, we explored whether combined testing with mRDT and c-reactive protein (CRP) could improve the diagnosis of febrile illnesses and subsequent prescription of antibiotics. METHODS Clinical specimens (blood, stool and urine) collected from 396 febrile children (axillary temperature of ≥ 37.5 °C) were analyzed with rapid diagnostic tests (malaria and CRP) and microbiology culture to establish the possible cause of fever. Actual antimicrobial prescriptions given to the children were compared with those that could be given based on combined CRP-malaria testing. RESULTS In total, 68.7% (272/396) of malaria cases were diagnosed by mRDT-Pf-HRP-2. CRP test was positive in 84.3% (334/396) of the children, but bacterial infections were confirmed in 12.4% (49/396) of them. A possible cause of fever could not be established in 20.5% (81/396) of cases. Based on the diagnostic practice in place, 265 of the children with a positive mRDT-Pf-HRP-2 received anti-malarial treatment. Furthermore, 89.5% (111/124) of negative mRDT results received antibiotic treatment and 37.1% (46/124) received antimalarial treatment. Of these 124 cases, 80 had positive CRP tests and 44 negative CRP tests. If the results of CRP testing are considered, 44 CRP/mRDT negative children would not get antibiotic treatment, resulting in a 35.5% reduction in antibiotic prescriptions. However, 2 cases with a bacterial infection would be denied appropriate treatment. CONCLUSION Combining mRDT-PfHRP2 with CRP testing is particularly useful in children for whom both tests are negative as it results in a reduction of antibiotics prescriptions. However, there is a risk to miss potential severe bacterial infections and a close follow-up of these cases is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massa dit Achille Bonko
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso ,grid.5650.60000000404654431Department of Medical Microbiology, Experimental Parasitology Unit, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Medical Center at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ibrahima Karama
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Francois Kiemde
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Palpouguini Lompo
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Zakaria Garba
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Sibidou Yougbaré
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Petra F. Mens
- grid.5650.60000000404654431Department of Medical Microbiology, Experimental Parasitology Unit, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Medical Center at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Halidou Tinto
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Marc Christian Tahita
- grid.457337.10000 0004 0564 0509Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé- Direction Régionale du Centre-Ouest/Unité de Recherche Clinique de Nanoro, IRSS-DRCO /URCN), Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Henk. D. F. H. Schallig
- grid.5650.60000000404654431Department of Medical Microbiology, Experimental Parasitology Unit, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Academic Medical Center at the University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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The Procalcitonin-guided Antibiotics in Respiratory Infections (PARI) project in general practice – a study protocol. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:43. [PMID: 35279069 PMCID: PMC8917812 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01646-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Antibiotic resistance is a global health challenge and the close correlation between antibiotic use and the development of resistance makes it essential to maintain a rational use of antibiotics. Most antibiotics are prescribed in general practice against acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI), even though most of these infections are of viral etiology. Thus, a safe method to substantially reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics in general practice is needed. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a precursor protein with very low circulating levels in the blood under physiological conditions. However, in response serious bacterial infection the level of PCT in the blood may increase significantly. Until recently, quantitative analyses of PCT was performed in hospital laboratories, impeding the implementation of PCT in primary care. Our aim is to determine whether it is possible to lower the use of antibiotics in patients presenting with symptoms of ARTI, without significantly prolonging the period of illness, by using a newly released PCT point-of-care test in general practice. Methods The Procalcitonin-Guided Antibiotics in Respiratory Infections (PARI) study is a randomized, single-blinded, non-inferiority, multi-practice intervention study comparing a PCT-group to a control group. Patients (N = 508) will be randomly assigned 1:1 to standard care or to the PCT group. The primary outcomes the duration of illness and symptoms from ARTI measured with the Acute Respiratory Tract Infection Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include (1) Number of participants in each trial arm exposed to antibiotic treatment at index consultation (day 1) and within 30 days, (2) Number of participants in each trial arm with side effects from antibiotic treatment within 14 days, (3) Number of participants in each trial arm with re-consultations within 30 days, (4) Number of participants in each trial arm admitted to hospital (including diagnosis and mortality) within 30 days, (5) Characterization of biomarker (CRP and PCT) level at index consultation. Tertiary outcomes include patient and general practitioner satisfaction with the use of the PCT point-of-care test, and long-term follow-up. Discussion To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine a PCT point-of-care test in general practice with the aim of reducing the use of antibiotics in patients with symptoms of ARTI. Results of this study may prove important in targeting antibiotic treatment only to those patients who need it, thus contributing to limiting the spread of antibiotic resistance. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04216277, date of registration: 2. of January 2020.
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Eilat-Tsanani S, Kasher C, Levine-Kremer H. Community-acquired pneumonia - use of chest x-rays for diagnosis in family practice. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:271. [PMID: 36303104 PMCID: PMC9615378 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01872-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Background According to guidelines, the diagnosis of pneumonia should be confirmed by chest x-ray, ensuring appropriate management and wise use of antibiotics. Our study aimed to describe use of x-rays by family doctors and patients following diagnosis of pneumonia in primary care practices in the north of Israel. Methods This was a retrospective database study including adults diagnosed with pneumonia, assessing rates of referral and actual use of chest x-rays. We examined rates of referral for chest x-rays and rates of adherence to the referral, according to age, gender, smoking status, comorbidities and distance of residence from the radiology facility. Results During one year there were 4,230 diagnosed cases of pneumonia in the practice, of which 2,503 were referred for chest x-rays, and 1,920 adhered to the referral (45% of those diagnosed with pneumonia). The rate of referral was higher when the radiology facility was located in the same city as the family doctor compared to outside the city (69.7% and 53.2%, p < 0.001). Patients aged 40–64 were referred more than patients aged 18–39 or 65+ (61.5% vs. 56.5% and 58.3%, p = 0.03). Actual use of chest x-rays (considering both referral and adherence) was more likely when the radiology facility was in the same health centre or city than when it was outside the city [OR = 2.4; 95% CI: 2.1–2.8]; patients aged 65 + or 40–64 were more likely to adhere to the referral for x-ray than those aged 18–39 [OR = 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1–1.6, OR = 1.2; 95% CI: 1.0–1.4, respectively]. Conclusion Accessibility of radiology facilities seems to be an important factor associated with both doctors’ decisions and patients’ adherence to the referral for chest x-rays. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-022-01872-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Eilat-Tsanani
- grid.414553.20000 0004 0575 3597The Department of Family Medicine, Clalit Health Services, Northern Region, Israel ,grid.22098.310000 0004 1937 0503The Department of Family Medicine, Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Carmel Kasher
- grid.414553.20000 0004 0575 3597The Department of Family Medicine, Clalit Health Services, Northern Region, Israel ,grid.22098.310000 0004 1937 0503The Department of Family Medicine, Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Hana Levine-Kremer
- grid.414553.20000 0004 0575 3597The Department of Family Medicine, Dan Petach Tikva Region, Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Smedemark SA, Aabenhus R, Llor C, Fournaise A, Olsen O, Jørgensen KJ. Biomarkers as point-of-care tests to guide prescription of antibiotics in people with acute respiratory infections in primary care. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 10:CD010130. [PMID: 36250577 PMCID: PMC9575154 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd010130.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are by far the most common reason for prescribing an antibiotic in primary care, even though the majority of ARIs are of viral or non-severe bacterial aetiology. It follows that in many cases antibiotic use will not be beneficial to a patient's recovery but may expose them to potential side effects. Furthermore, limiting unnecessary antibiotic use is a key factor in controlling antibiotic resistance. One strategy to reduce antibiotic use in primary care is point-of-care biomarkers. A point-of-care biomarker (test) of inflammation identifies part of the acute phase response to tissue injury regardless of the aetiology (infection, trauma, or inflammation) and may be used as a surrogate marker of infection, potentially assisting the physician in the clinical decision whether to use an antibiotic to treat ARIs. Biomarkers may guide antibiotic prescription by ruling out a serious bacterial infection and help identify patients in whom no benefit from antibiotic treatment can be anticipated. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2014. OBJECTIVES To assess the benefits and harms of point-of-care biomarker tests of inflammation to guide antibiotic treatment in people presenting with symptoms of acute respiratory infections in primary care settings regardless of patient age. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL (2022, Issue 6), MEDLINE (1946 to 14 June 2022), Embase (1974 to 14 June 2022), CINAHL (1981 to 14 June 2022), Web of Science (1955 to 14 June 2022), and LILACS (1982 to 14 June 2022). We also searched three trial registries (10 December 2021) for completed and ongoing trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in primary care patients with ARIs that compared the use of point-of-care biomarkers with standard care. We included trials that randomised individual participants, as well as trials that randomised clusters of patients (cluster-RCTs). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data on the following primary outcomes: number of participants given an antibiotic prescription at index consultation and within 28 days follow-up; participant recovery within seven days follow-up; and total mortality within 28 days follow-up. We assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. We used random-effects meta-analyses when feasible. We further analysed results with considerable heterogeneity in prespecified subgroups of individual and cluster-RCTs. MAIN RESULTS We included seven new trials in this update, for a total of 13 included trials. Twelve trials (10,218 participants in total, 2335 of which were children) evaluated a C-reactive protein point-of-care test, and one trial (317 adult participants) evaluated a procalcitonin point-of-care test. The studies were conducted in Europe, Russia, and Asia. Overall, the included trials had a low or unclear risk of bias. However all studies were open-labelled, thereby introducing high risk of bias due to lack of blinding. The use of C-reactive protein point-of-care tests to guide antibiotic prescription likely reduces the number of participants given an antibiotic prescription, from 516 prescriptions of antibiotics per 1000 participants in the control group to 397 prescriptions of antibiotics per 1000 participants in the intervention group (risk ratio (RR) 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.69 to 0.86; 12 trials, 10,218 participants; I² = 79%; moderate-certainty evidence). Overall, use of C-reactive protein tests also reduce the number of participants given an antibiotic prescription within 28 days follow-up (664 prescriptions of antibiotics per 1000 participants in the control group versus 538 prescriptions of antibiotics per 1000 participants in the intervention group) (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.86; 7 trials, 5091 participants; I² = 29; high-certainty evidence). The prescription of antibiotics as guided by C-reactive protein tests likely does not reduce the number of participants recovered, within seven or 28 days follow-up (567 participants recovered within seven days follow-up per 1000 participants in the control group versus 584 participants recovered within seven days follow-up per 1000 participants in the intervention group) (recovery within seven days follow-up: RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.12; I² = 0%; moderate-certainty evidence) (recovery within 28 days follow-up: RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.32; I² = 0%; moderate-certainty evidence). The use of C-reactive protein tests may not increase total mortality within 28 days follow-up, from 1 death per 1000 participants in the control group to 0 deaths per 1000 participants in the intervention group (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.10 to 2.92; I² = 0%; low-certainty evidence). We are uncertain as to whether procalcitonin affects any of the primary or secondary outcomes because there were few participants, thereby limiting the certainty of evidence. We assessed the certainty of the evidence as moderate to high according to GRADE for the primary outcomes for C-reactive protein test, except for mortality, as there were very few deaths, thereby limiting the certainty of the evidence. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The use of C-reactive protein point-of-care tests as an adjunct to standard care likely reduces the number of participants given an antibiotic prescription in primary care patients who present with symptoms of acute respiratory infection. The use of C-reactive protein point-of-care tests likely does not affect recovery rates. It is unlikely that further research will substantially change our conclusion regarding the reduction in number of participants given an antibiotic prescription, although the size of the estimated effect may change. The use of C-reactive protein point-of-care tests may not increase mortality within 28 days follow-up, but there were very few events. Studies that recorded deaths and hospital admissions were performed in children from low- and middle-income countries and older adults with comorbidities. Future studies should focus on children, immunocompromised individuals, and people aged 80 years and above with comorbidities. More studies evaluating procalcitonin and potential new biomarkers as point-of-care tests used in primary care to guide antibiotic prescription are needed. Furthermore, studies are needed to validate C-reactive protein decision algorithms, with a specific focus on potential age group differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siri Aas Smedemark
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Geriatric Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Rune Aabenhus
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carl Llor
- University Institute in Primary Care Research Jordi Gol, Via Roma Health Centre, Barcelona, Spain
- Research Unit of General Practice, Department of Public Health, General Practice, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anders Fournaise
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Geriatric Research Unit, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Cross-sectoral Collaboration, Region of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Biodemography, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ole Olsen
- The Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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9
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Educational Interventions to Reduce Prescription and Dispensing of Antibiotics in Primary Care: A Systematic Review of Economic Impact. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11091186. [PMID: 36139965 PMCID: PMC9495011 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11091186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance remains a crucial global public health problem with excessive and inappropriate antibiotic use representing an important driver of this issue. Strategies to improve antibiotic prescription and dispensing are required in primary health care settings. The main purpose of this review is to identify and synthesize available evidence on the economic impact of educational interventions to reduce prescription and dispensing of antibiotics among primary health care professionals. Information about the clinical impact resulting from the implementation of interventions was also gathered. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and EMBASE were the scientific databases used to search and identify relevant studies. Of the thirty-three selected articles, most consisted of a simple intervention, such as a guideline implementation, while the others involved multifaceted interventions, and differed regarding study populations, designs and settings. Main findings were grouped either into clinical or cost outcomes. Twenty of the thirty-three articles included studies reporting a reduction in outcome costs, namely in antibiotic cost and associated prescription costs, in part due to an overall improvement in the appropriateness of antibiotic use. The findings of this study show that the implementation of educational interventions is a cost-effective strategy to reduce antibiotic prescription and dispensing among primary healthcare providers.
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10
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Effah CY, Miao R, Drokow EK, Agboyibor C, Qiao R, Wu Y, Miao L, Wang Y. Machine learning-assisted prediction of pneumonia based on non-invasive measures. Front Public Health 2022; 10:938801. [PMID: 35968461 PMCID: PMC9371749 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.938801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that is characterized by high morbidity and mortality. The use of machine learning systems to detect respiratory diseases via non-invasive measures such as physical and laboratory parameters is gaining momentum and has been proposed to decrease diagnostic uncertainty associated with bacterial pneumonia. Herein, this study conducted several experiments using eight machine learning models to predict pneumonia based on biomarkers, laboratory parameters, and physical features. Methods We perform machine-learning analysis on 535 different patients, each with 45 features. Data normalization to rescale all real-valued features was performed. Since it is a binary problem, we categorized each patient into one class at a time. We designed three experiments to evaluate the models: (1) feature selection techniques to select appropriate features for the models, (2) experiments on the imbalanced original dataset, and (3) experiments on the SMOTE data. We then compared eight machine learning models to evaluate their effectiveness in predicting pneumonia Results Biomarkers such as C-reactive protein and procalcitonin demonstrated the most significant discriminating power. Ensemble machine learning models such as RF (accuracy = 92.0%, precision = 91.3%, recall = 96.0%, f1-Score = 93.6%) and XGBoost (accuracy = 90.8%, precision = 92.6%, recall = 92.3%, f1-score = 92.4%) achieved the highest performance accuracy on the original dataset with AUCs of 0.96 and 0.97, respectively. On the SMOTE dataset, RF and XGBoost achieved the highest prediction results with f1-scores of 92.0 and 91.2%, respectively. Also, AUC of 0.97 was achieved for both RF and XGBoost models. Conclusions Our models showed that in the diagnosis of pneumonia, individual clinical history, laboratory indicators, and symptoms do not have adequate discriminatory power. We can also conclude that the ensemble ML models performed better in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruoqi Miao
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Emmanuel Kwateng Drokow
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Clement Agboyibor
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruiping Qiao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yongjun Wu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yongjun Wu
| | - Lijun Miao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Lijun Miao
| | - Yanbin Wang
- Center of Health Management, General Hospital of Anyang Iron and Steel Group Co., Ltd, Anyang, China
- Yanbin Wang
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11
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Dixon S, Fanshawe TR, Mwandigha L, Edwards G, Turner PJ, Glogowska M, Gillespie MM, Blair D, Hayward GN. The Impact of Point-of-Care Blood C-Reactive Protein Testing on Prescribing Antibiotics in Out-of-Hours Primary Care: A Mixed Methods Evaluation. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11081008. [PMID: 35892398 PMCID: PMC9332095 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11081008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Improving prescribing antibiotics appropriately for respiratory infections in primary care is an antimicrobial stewardship priority. There is limited evidence to support interventions to reduce prescribing antibiotics in out-of-hours (OOH) primary care. Herein, we report a service innovation where point-of-care C-Reactive Protein (CRP) machines were introduced to three out-of-hours primary care clinical bases in England from August 2018-December 2019, which were compared with four control bases that did not have point-of-care CRP testing. We undertook a mixed-method evaluation, including a comparative interrupted time series analysis to compare monthly antibiotic prescription rates between bases with CRP machines and those without, an analysis of the number of and reasons for the tests performed, and qualitative interviews with clinicians. Antibiotic prescription rates declined during follow-up, but with no clear difference between the two groups of out-of-hours practices. A single base contributed 217 of the 248 CRP tests performed. Clinicians reported that the tests supported decision making and communication about not prescribing antibiotics, where having 'objective' numbers were helpful in navigating non-prescribing decisions and highlighted the challenges of training a fluctuant staff group and practical concerns about using the CRP machine. Service improvements to reduce prescribing antibiotics in out-of-hours primary care need to be developed with an understanding of the needs and context of this service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Dixon
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (T.R.F.); (L.M.); (G.E.); (P.J.T.); (M.G.); (G.N.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Thomas R. Fanshawe
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (T.R.F.); (L.M.); (G.E.); (P.J.T.); (M.G.); (G.N.H.)
| | - Lazaro Mwandigha
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (T.R.F.); (L.M.); (G.E.); (P.J.T.); (M.G.); (G.N.H.)
| | - George Edwards
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (T.R.F.); (L.M.); (G.E.); (P.J.T.); (M.G.); (G.N.H.)
| | - Philip J. Turner
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (T.R.F.); (L.M.); (G.E.); (P.J.T.); (M.G.); (G.N.H.)
| | - Margaret Glogowska
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (T.R.F.); (L.M.); (G.E.); (P.J.T.); (M.G.); (G.N.H.)
| | - Marjorie M. Gillespie
- Practice Plus Group, Hawker House, 5–6 Napier Court, Napier Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 8BW, UK;
| | - Duncan Blair
- Queen Elizabeth Memorial Health Centre, St Michaels Avenue, Tidworth Garrison SP9 7EA, UK;
| | - Gail N. Hayward
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (T.R.F.); (L.M.); (G.E.); (P.J.T.); (M.G.); (G.N.H.)
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12
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Andersson K, van Driel M, Hedin K, Hollingworth S, Merlo G. Antibiotic use in Australian and Swedish primary care: a cross-country comparison. Scand J Prim Health Care 2022; 40:95-103. [PMID: 35166180 PMCID: PMC9090355 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2022.2036494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Antimicrobial resistance is a growing worldwide problem and is considered to be one of the biggest threats to global health by the World Health Organization. Insights into the determinants of antibiotic prescribing may be gained by comparing the antibiotic usage patterns of Australia and Sweden. DESIGN Publicly available data on dispensed use of antibiotics in Australia and Sweden between 2006 and 2018. Medicine use was measured using defined daily dose per 1,000 inhabitants per day (DDD/1000/day) and the number of dispensed prescriptions per 1000 inhabitants (prescriptions/1000). RESULTS The use of antibiotics increased over the study period in Australia by 1.8% and decreased in Sweden by 26.3%. Use was consistently higher in Australia, double that of Sweden in 2018. Penicillin with extended spectrum was the most used class of antibiotics in Australia followed by penicillin with beta lactamase inhibitors. In Sweden, the most used class was beta lactamase-sensitive penicillin and the least used class was penicillin with beta lactamase inhibitors. CONCLUSION Antibiotic use in Australia is higher than in Sweden, with a higher proportion of broad-spectrum penicillin, including combinations with beta lactamase inhibitors, and cephalosporins. Factors that may contribute to these differences in antibiotic use include differences in guidelines, the duration of national antimicrobial stewardship programs, and differences in funding mechanisms.Key pointsAustralia has had a consistently higher dispensed use of antibiotics compared to Sweden from 2006 to 2018; and up to twice the use in 2018•A higher proportion of dispensed antibiotics in Australia were broad-spectrum penicillin, including combinations with beta lactamase inhibitors, and cefalosporins.•The most commonly used class of antibiotics in Australia is penicillin with extended spectrum, compared to beta lactamase sensitive penicillin in Sweden.•Use of macrolides, sulphonamides and trimethoprim, cephalosporins, penicillin with beta lactamase inhibitors and penicillin with extended spectrum was consistently higher in Australia, whereas in Sweden use of fluoroquinolones, lincosamides, beta lactamase-resistant penicillin and beta lactamase sensitive penicillin was higher.•The observed differences could be explained by antibiotic choice recommended in guidelines, prevalence of point-of-care testing, models of primary care funding, the presence and duration of national antimicrobial stewardship programmes, and cultural differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konny Andersson
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Mieke van Driel
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Katarina Hedin
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Family Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | | | - Gregory Merlo
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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13
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Czarniak P, Chalmers L, Hughes J, Iacob R, Lee YP, Parsons K, Parsons R, Sunderland B, Sim TF. Point-of-care C-reactive protein testing service for respiratory tract infections in community pharmacy: a qualitative study of service uptake and experience of pharmacists. Int J Clin Pharm 2022; 44:466-479. [PMID: 35088232 PMCID: PMC8794609 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-021-01368-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Targeted interventions in community pharmacies, such as point-of-care C-reactive protein testing, could reduce inappropriate antimicrobial consumption in patients presenting with symptoms of respiratory tract infections, although data regarding Australian pharmacists’ perspectives on its provision are limited. Aim To explore pharmacists’ experiences and perspectives of point-of-care C-reactive protein testing, including barriers and facilitators, influencing service provision and uptake. Method A point-of-care C-reactive protein testing service for patients presenting with respiratory tract infection symptoms was trialled in five purposively selected community pharmacies in metropolitan Western Australia. Two pharmacists from each pharmacy participated in one-to-one semi-structured telephone interviews, regarding pharmacist demographics, pharmacy characteristics, experience with the point-of-care C-reactive protein service and training/resources. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were imported into NVivo for thematic analysis. Results Interview durations ranged from 28.2 to 60.2 min (mean: 50.7 ± 10.2 min). Of the five themes which emerged, participants reported the point-of-care C-reactive protein testing was simple, fast, reliable and accurate, assisted their clinical decision-making and contributed to antimicrobial stewardship. A major factor facilitating service provision and uptake by consumers was the accessibility and credibility of pharmacists. Barriers included time constraints and heavy documentation. Participants believed there was a public demand for the service. Conclusion Given the global antimicrobial resistance crisis, pharmacists have an important role in minimising the inappropriate use of antimicrobials. The point-of-care C-reactive protein service was readily accepted by the public when offered. However, ensuring efficient service delivery and adequate remuneration are essential for its successful implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Czarniak
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia.
| | - Leanne Chalmers
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Jeffery Hughes
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Rebecca Iacob
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Ya Ping Lee
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Kiran Parsons
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Richard Parsons
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Bruce Sunderland
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Tin Fei Sim
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
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Verbakel JYJ, De Burghgraeve T, Van den Bruel A, Coenen S, Anthierens S, Joly L, Laenen A, Luyten J, De Sutter A. Antibiotic prescribing rate after optimal near-patient C-reactive protein testing in acutely ill children presenting to ambulatory care (ARON project): protocol for a cluster-randomized pragmatic trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058912. [PMID: 34980633 PMCID: PMC8724812 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children become ill quite often, mainly because of infections, most of which can be managed in the community. Many children are prescribed antibiotics which contributes to antimicrobial resistance and reinforces health-seeking behaviour. Point-of-care C reactive protein (POC CRP) testing, prescription guidance and safety-netting advice can help safely reduce antibiotic prescribing to acutely ill children in ambulatory care as well as save costs at a systems level. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The ARON (Antibiotic prescribing Rate after Optimal Near-patient testing in acutely ill children in ambulatory care) trial is a pragmatic cluster randomized controlled superiority trial with a nested process evaluation and will assess the clinical and cost effectiveness of a diagnostic algorithm, which includes a standardised clinical assessment, a POC CRP test, and safety-netting advice, in acutely ill children aged 6 months to 12 years presenting to ambulatory care. The primary outcome is antibiotic prescribing at the index consultation; secondary outcomes include clinical recovery, reconsultation, referral/admission to hospital, additional testing, mortality and patient satisfaction. We aim to recruit a total sample size of 6111 patients. All outcomes will be analysed according to the intent-to-treat approach. We will use a mixed-effect logistic regression analysis to account for the clustering at practice level. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study will be conducted in compliance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki (current version), the principles of Good Clinical Practice and in accordance with all applicable regulatory requirements. Ethics approval for this study was obtained on 10 November 2020 from the Ethics Committee Research of University Hospitals Leuven under reference S62005. We will ensure that the findings of the study will be disseminated to relevant stakeholders other than the scientific world including the public, healthcare providers and policy-makers. The process evaluation that is part of this trial may provide a basis for an implementation strategy. If our intervention proves to be clinically and cost-effective, it will be essential to educate physicians about introducing the diagnostic algorithm including POC CRP testing and safety-netting advice in their daily practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04470518. Protocol V.2.0 date 2 October 2020. (Pre-results).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Yvan Jos Verbakel
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Centre for General Practice, EPI-Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tine De Burghgraeve
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Centre for General Practice, EPI-Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ann Van den Bruel
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Academic Centre for General Practice, EPI-Centre, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Samuel Coenen
- Department of Family Medicine & Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sibyl Anthierens
- Department of Family Medicine & Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Louise Joly
- Research Unit Primary Care and Health, Department of General Practice, Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium
| | - Annouschka Laenen
- Leuven Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics Centre (L-BioStat), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Luyten
- Leuven Institute for Healthcare Policy, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - An De Sutter
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Family Medicine & Health Policy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Ciccone EJ, Kabugho L, Baguma E, Muhindo R, Juliano JJ, Mulogo E, Boyce RM. Rapid Diagnostic Tests to Guide Case Management of and Improve Antibiotic Stewardship for Pediatric Acute Respiratory Illnesses in Resource-Constrained Settings: a Prospective Cohort Study in Southwestern Uganda. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0169421. [PMID: 34817224 PMCID: PMC8612158 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01694-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric acute respiratory illness (ARI) is one of the most common reasons for evaluation at peripheral health centers in sub-Saharan Africa and is frequently managed based on clinical syndrome alone. Although most ARI episodes are likely caused by self-limited viral infections, the majority are treated with antibiotics. This overuse contributes to the development of antimicrobial resistance. To evaluate the preliminary feasibility and potential impact of adding pathogen-specific and clinical biomarker diagnostic testing to existing clinical management algorithms, we conducted a prospective, observational cohort study of 225 children presenting with malaria-negative, febrile ARI to the outpatient department of a semi-urban peripheral health facility in southwestern Uganda from October 2019 to January 2020. In addition to routine clinical evaluation, we performed influenza and Streptococcus pneumoniae antigen testing and measured levels of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and lactate in the clinic's laboratory, and conducted a follow-up assessment by phone 7 days later. Almost one-fifth of participants (40/225) tested positive for influenza. Clinical biomarker measurements were low with C-reactive protein of >40 mg/L in only 11% (13/222) of participants and procalcitonin >0.25 ng/mL in only 13% (16/125). All but two children received antibiotic treatment; only 3% (7/225) were admitted. At follow-up, 59% (118/201) of caregivers reported at least one persistent symptom, but fever had resolved for all children. Positive influenza testing was associated with persistent symptoms. In summary, we demonstrate that simple, rapid pathogen-specific testing and biomarker measurement are possible in resource-limited settings and could improve syndromic management and, in turn, antibiotic stewardship. IMPORTANCE Globally, respiratory illness is one of the most common reasons that children seek care. It is often treated inappropriately with antibiotics, which can drive the development of antibiotic resistance. In resource-rich settings, testing for specific pathogens or measurement of clinical biomarkers, such as procalcitonin and C-reactive protein, is often employed to help determine which children should receive antibiotics. However, there are limited data on the use of these tests in resource-constrained, outpatient contexts in sub-Saharan Africa. We enrolled children with respiratory illness presenting to a clinic in southwestern Uganda and performed testing for influenza, Streptococcus pneumoniae, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin on-site. Almost all children received antibiotics. We demonstrate that employing clinical algorithms that include influenza and clinical biomarker testing could significantly decrease antibiotic prescriptions. Our study therefore provides preliminary data to support the feasibility and potential utility of diagnostics to improve management of respiratory illness in resource-constrained settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Ciccone
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lydia Kabugho
- Department of Community Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Baguma
- Department of Community Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Rabbison Muhindo
- Department of Community Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Jonathan J. Juliano
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Edgar Mulogo
- Department of Community Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Ross M. Boyce
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Community Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Point of care testing, antibiotic prescribing and prescribing confidence for respiratory tract infections in primary care: Prospective audit in 18 European countries. BJGP Open 2021; 6:BJGPO.2021.0212. [PMID: 34920989 PMCID: PMC9447323 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2021.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between-country differences have been described in antibiotic prescribing for RTI in primary care, but not yet for diagnostic testing procedures and prescribing confidence. AIM To describe between-country differences in RTI management, particularly diagnostic testing and antibiotic prescribing, and investigate which factors relate to antibiotic prescribing and GPs' prescribing confidence. DESIGN & SETTING Prospective audit in 18 European countries. METHOD GPs registered patient-, clinical- and management characteristics, and confidence in their antibiotic prescribing decision for patients presenting with sore throat and/or lower RTI (n=4,982). Factors related to antibiotic prescribing and confidence were analysed using multi-level logistic regression. RESULTS Antibiotic prescribing proportions varied considerably:<20% in four countries, and >40% in six countries. There was also considerable variation in POC testing (0% in Croatia, Moldova, Romania, and >65% in Denmark, Norway, mainly CRP and Strep A), and in lab/hospital-based testing (<3% in Hungary, Netherlands, Spain, and >30% in Croatia, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, mainly chest X-ray and white blood cell counting). Antibiotic prescribing was related to illness severity, comorbidity, age, fever and 'country', but not to having performed a POC test. In nearly 90% of consultations, GPs were confident in their antibiotic prescribing decision. CONCLUSION Despite high confidence in decisions about antibiotic prescribing, there is considerable variation in the primary care of RTI in European countries, with GPs prescribing antibiotics overall more often than is considered appropriate. POC testing may enhance the quality of antibiotic prescribing decisions if it can safely reverse decisions confidently made on clinical grounds alone to prescribe antibiotics.
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Sydenham RV, Justesen US, Hansen MP, Pedersen LB, Aabenhus RM, Wehberg S, Jarbøl DE. Prescribing antibiotics: the use of diagnostic tests in general practice. A register-based study. Scand J Prim Health Care 2021; 39:466-475. [PMID: 34845954 PMCID: PMC8725972 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2021.2004721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess (i) the pattern of antibiotic prescribing in Danish general practice, (ii) the use of diagnostic tests [point-of-care (POC) and tests analysed at the hospital laboratory (laboratory tests)], and (iii) the frequency of diagnostic testing in relation to antibiotic prescriptions. DESIGN Retrospective cross-sectional register-based study. SETTING General practice in a geographical area of Denmark covering 455,956 inhabitants. SUBJECTS We studied redeemed antibiotic prescriptions and performed diagnostic tests in general practice from 2013 to 2017 among inhabitants in nine selected municipalities. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Frequency of antibiotic courses. Frequency and type of diagnostic testing performed in relation to types of antibiotics. RESULTS A total of 783,252 antibiotic courses were redeemed from general practice with an overall decrease of 19% during 2013-2017. Diagnostic testing increased by 6% during this period. POC tests comprised the majority of performed diagnostic tests (83%) with C-reactive protein (CRP) as the most frequently used test. A 27% increase in the use of laboratory tests was observed. Tests were performed in relation to 43% of all antibiotic courses; most in relation to prescriptions for sulphonamide and trimethoprim (57%) and rarely when prescribing tetracyclines (10%). Conflicting with national guidelines, Danish GPs prescribed fluoroquinolones without performing any kind of diagnostic testing in 48% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS This study provides an overview of the use of diagnostic tests in relation to antibiotics and creates basis for further research into the variability between types of antibiotics. The study indicates that there is room for improvement to use diagnostic tests as an aid to promote prudent antibiotic use.KEY POINTSDiagnostic tests (point-of-care or tests analysed at the hospital laboratory), can increase diagnostic certainty and lead to a reduction in antibiotic use in general practice.A decrease in antibiotic courses in general practice in Denmark was observed during 2013-2017, while the use of diagnostic tests increased.A diagnostic test was performed in relation to 43% of antibiotic courses.Only 52% of prescribed fluoroquinolones was related to a diagnostic test, conflicting with national guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Vognbjerg Sydenham
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- CONTACT Rikke Vognbjerg Sydenham Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, JB Winsløws Vej 9A, Odense C, 5000, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Stenz Justesen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Line Bjørnskov Pedersen
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Danish Centre for Health Economics, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Rune Munck Aabenhus
- Research Unit for General Practice, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sonja Wehberg
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Dorte Ejg Jarbøl
- Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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C-Reactive Protein for the Early Assessment of Non-Malarial Febrile Patients: A Retrospective Diagnostic Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091728. [PMID: 34574070 PMCID: PMC8469932 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarkers, especially CRP, have demonstrated their relevance to differentiate viral from bacterial infection, even though a reliable threshold is far to being found. In low- and middle-income countries, affordable and user-friendly rapid diagnostic tests based on biomarkers can be widely adopted to help health workers in the management of non-malarial fever. The primary objective of this study is to assess the best CRP cut-off to distinguish viral from bacterial infections. Other biomarkers were evaluated for the same purpose, alone or in combination with CRP. We retrospectively collected data from two referral hospital departments for infectious and tropical diseases in Italy. Areas under the ROC curve (AUC) were calculated and then compared using the DeLong test. Overall, we included 1193 febrile cases (viral 20.74% vs. bacterial 79.25%). We also collected malaria (n = 202) and intestinal parasite (n = 186) cases to establish their impact on biomarkers. CRP had the best accuracy in differentiating viral from bacterial infections. The best performance of CRP was a cut-off of 11 mg/L. All other biomarkers studied had significantly lower accuracy. Median CRP values were within the normal ranges in parasitic infections, while they were higher in malaria. None of the combinations of CRP with other biomarkers significantly increased the accuracy of CRP alone.
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Escadafal C, Incardona S, Fernandez-Carballo BL, Dittrich S. The good and the bad: using C reactive protein to distinguish bacterial from non-bacterial infection among febrile patients in low-resource settings. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 5:bmjgh-2020-002396. [PMID: 32467355 PMCID: PMC7259834 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-002396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
C reactive protein (CRP), a marker for the presence of an inflammatory process, is the most extensively studied marker for distinguishing bacterial from non-bacterial infections in febrile patients. A point-of-care test for bacterial infections would be of particular use in low-resource settings where other laboratory diagnostics are not always available, antimicrobial resistance rates are high and bacterial infections such as pneumonia are a leading cause of death. This document summarises evidence on CRP testing for bacterial infections in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). With a push for universal health coverage and prevention of antimicrobial resistance, it is important to understand if CRP might be able to do the job. The use of CRP polarised the global health community and the aim of this document is to summarise the ‘good and the bad’ of CRP in multiple settings in LMICs. In brief, the literature that was reviewed suggests that CRP testing may be beneficial in low-resource settings to improve rational antibiotic use for febrile patients, but the positive predictive value is insufficient to allow it to be used alone as a single tool. CRP testing may be best used as part of a panel of diagnostic tests and algorithms. Further studies in low-resource settings, particularly with regard to impact on antibiotic prescribing and cost-effectiveness of CRP testing, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Escadafal
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Incardona
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Sabine Dittrich
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland .,Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Pérez-López A, Irwin A, Rodrigo C, Prat-Aymerich C. Role of C reactive protein and procalcitonin in the diagnosis of lower respiratory tract infection in children in the outpatient setting. BMJ 2021; 373:n1409. [PMID: 34117023 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.n1409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Pérez-López
- Divison of Microbiology Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Adam Irwin
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carlos Rodrigo
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- Autonomous University of Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Cristina Prat-Aymerich
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Badalona, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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21
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Bharadwaj M, Bengtson M, Golverdingen M, Waling L, Dekker C. Diagnosing point-of-care diagnostics for neglected tropical diseases. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009405. [PMID: 34138846 PMCID: PMC8211285 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inadequate and nonintegrated diagnostics are the Achilles' heel of global efforts to monitor, control, and eradicate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). While treatment is often available, NTDs are endemic among marginalized populations, due to the unavailability or inadequacy of diagnostic tests that cause empirical misdiagnoses. The need of the hour is early diagnosis at the point-of-care (PoC) of NTD patients. Here, we review the status quo of PoC diagnostic tests and practices for all of the 24 NTDs identified in the World Health Organization's (WHO) 2021-2030 roadmap, based on their different diagnostic requirements. We discuss the capabilities and shortcomings of current diagnostic tests, identify diagnostic needs, and formulate prerequisites of relevant PoC tests. Next to technical requirements, we stress the importance of availability and awareness programs for establishing PoC tests that fit endemic resource-limited settings. Better understanding of NTD diagnostics will pave the path for setting realistic goals for healthcare in areas with minimal resources, thereby alleviating the global healthcare burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitasha Bharadwaj
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Michel Bengtson
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Mirte Golverdingen
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Loulotte Waling
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Cees Dekker
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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Gulliford MC, Charlton J, Boiko O, Winter JR, Rezel-Potts E, Sun X, Burgess C, McDermott L, Bunce C, Shearer J, Curcin V, Fox R, Hay AD, Little P, Moore MV, Ashworth M. Safety of reducing antibiotic prescribing in primary care: a mixed-methods study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr09090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
The threat of antimicrobial resistance has led to intensified efforts to reduce antibiotic utilisation, but serious bacterial infections are increasing in frequency.
Objectives
To estimate the risks of serious bacterial infections in association with lower antibiotic prescribing and understand stakeholder views with respect to safe antibiotic reduction.
Design
Mixed-methods research was undertaken, including a qualitative interview study of patient and prescriber views that informed a cohort study and a decision-analytic model, using primary care electronic health records. These three work packages were used to design an application (app) for primary care prescribers.
Data sources
The Clinical Practice Research Datalink.
Setting
This took place in UK general practices.
Participants
A total of 706 general practices with 66.2 million person-years of follow-up from 2002 to 2017 and antibiotic utilisation evaluated for 671,830 registered patients. The qualitative study included 31 patients and 30 health-care professionals from primary care.
Main outcome measures
Sepsis and localised bacterial infections.
Results
Patients were concerned about antimicrobial resistance and the side effects, as well as the benefits, of antibiotic treatment. Prescribers viewed the onset of sepsis as the most concerning potential outcome of reduced antibiotic prescribing. More than 40% of antibiotic prescriptions in primary care had no coded indication recorded across both Vision® and EMIS® practice systems. Antibiotic prescribing rates varied widely between general practices, but there was no evidence that serious bacterial infections were less frequent at higher prescribing practices (adjusted rate ratio for 20% increase in prescribing 1.03, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.06; p = 0.074). The probability of sepsis was lower if an antibiotic was prescribed at an infection consultation, and the number of antibiotic prescriptions required to prevent one episode of sepsis (i.e. the number needed to treat) decreased with age. For those aged 0–4 years, the number needed to treat was 29,773 (95% uncertainty interval 18,458 to 71,091) in boys and 27,014 (95% uncertainty interval 16,739 to 65,709) in girls. For those aged > 85 years, the number needed to treat was 262 (95% uncertainty interval 236 to 293) in men and 385 (95% uncertainty interval 352 to 421) in women. Frailty was associated with a greater risk of sepsis and a smaller number needed to treat. For severely frail patients aged 55–64 years, the number needed to treat was 247 (95% uncertainty interval 156 to 459) for men and 343 (95% uncertainty interval 234 to 556) for women. At all ages, the probability of sepsis was greatest for urinary tract infection, followed by skin infection and respiratory tract infection. The numbers needed to treat were generally smaller for the period 2014–17, when sepsis was diagnosed more frequently. The results are available using an app that we developed to provide primary care prescribers with stratified risk estimates during infection consultations.
Limitations
Analyses were based on non-randomised comparisons. Infection episodes and antibiotic prescribing are poorly documented in primary care.
Conclusions
Antibiotic treatment is generally associated with lower risks, but the most serious bacterial infections remain infrequent even without antibiotic treatment. This research identifies risk strata in which antibiotic prescribing can be more safely reduced.
Future work
The software developed from this research may be further developed and investigated for antimicrobial stewardship effect.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 9, No. 9. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin C Gulliford
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Judith Charlton
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Olga Boiko
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Joanne R Winter
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Emma Rezel-Potts
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Xiaohui Sun
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline Burgess
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Lisa McDermott
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Catey Bunce
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - James Shearer
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Vasa Curcin
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Robin Fox
- Bicester Health Centre, Bicester, UK
| | - Alastair D Hay
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul Little
- Primary Care Research Group, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael V Moore
- Primary Care Research Group, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mark Ashworth
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
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Alternative approaches to managing respiratory tract infections: a survey of public perceptions. BJGP Open 2021; 5:BJGPO.2020.0124. [PMID: 33293410 PMCID: PMC8170598 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2020.0124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are a common reason for people to consult in primary care, and contribute to antibiotic overuse and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Alternative approaches to supporting patients with RTIs may help, but it is important to understand public perceptions about these approaches before they are widely implemented. AIM To describe public perceptions regarding finger-prick testing, back-up antibiotic prescriptions (BUPs), and alternatives to traditional consultations for RTIs, and identify factors associated with favouring these approaches. DESIGN & SETTING Online national survey (HealthWise Wales) with linked primary care health record data. METHOD Survey item response distributions were described. Associations between responses about consultation alternatives, BUP, and finger-prick point-of-care testing (POCT), and potential explanatory variables, were explored using logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 8752 participants completed the survey between 2016 and 2018. The survey found 76.7% (n = 3807/4,966) and 71.2% (n = 3529/4,953) of responders with valid responses were in favour of being able to consult with a pharmacist or nurse in their GP surgery, or with a community pharmacist, respectively. It also showed 92.8% (n = 8034/8659) of responders indicated they would be happy to have a finger-prick test to guide antibiotic prescribing, and 31.8% (n = 2746/8646) indicated they would like to be given a BUP if their clinician thought immediate antibiotics were not required. In addition, 47.4% (n = 2342/4944) and 42.3% (n = 2095/4949) were in favour of having video and email consultations, respectively. Characteristics associated with different response options were identified. CONCLUSION Consulting with pharmacists, using electronic communication tools, and finger-prick testing are widely acceptable approaches. BUP was described as acceptable less often, and is likely to require greater information and support when used.
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Nabovati E, Jeddi FR, Farrahi R, Anvari S. Information technology interventions to improve antibiotic prescribing for patients with acute respiratory infection: a systematic review. Clin Microbiol Infect 2021; 27:838-845. [PMID: 33813115 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2021.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Information technology (IT) interventions provide physicians with easy and quick access to information at the point of care and can play a major role in clinical decision-making for antibiotic prescribing. This study aimed to examine the effects and characteristics of IT interventions on improving antibiotic prescribing for patients with acute respiratory infection (ARI). METHODS A comprehensive search was performed in Medline (through PubMed), ISI web of science, Embase, and Cochrane databases from inception to 31 August 2020. Randomized controlled trial (RCT) and cluster RCT (CRCT) studies examining the effectiveness of IT interventions in improving antibiotic prescribing for patients with ARI were included. Participants were patients with ARI. IT interventions were used for improving antibiotic prescribing. Two researchers independently extracted data from studies on methods, characteristics of interventions, and results. The characteristics of interventions were extracted based on three dimensions of IT design, data entry source, and implementation characteristics. RESULTS Eighteen studies (15 CRCTs and three RCTs) were included. Most of included studies (n = 11) were conducted in the United States. In 12 studies (66.7%), IT interventions improved the level of antibiotic prescribing, and in eight of the 12 studies the effect was statistically significant. In two studies the intervention had a statistically significant negative effect, and in two studies the level of antibiotic prescribing was not changed. Seventeen studies (94.4%) used clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) for the intervention. In 12 studies (66.7%) CDSSs were integrated with electronic health records (EHRs). CONCLUSIONS Information technology interventions have the potential to improve prescription of antibiotics for patients with acute respiratory infection and to change physicians' behaviours in this regard. Factors affecting the acceptance of IT-based interventions to improve prescription of antibiotics should be investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Nabovati
- Health Information Management Research Centre, Department of Health Information Management & Technology, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Rangraz Jeddi
- Health Information Management Research Centre, Department of Health Information Management & Technology, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Razieh Farrahi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Health Information Management & Technology, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Shima Anvari
- Student Research Committee, Department of Health Information Management & Technology, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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25
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Haase R, Baier J, Cristofolini M, Scheller K, Moritz S. [Effects of an In-House Antibiotic Stewardship Initiative on Diagnosis and Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Childhood and Adolescence]. Pneumologie 2021; 75:507-515. [PMID: 33556975 DOI: 10.1055/a-1346-4444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric community-acquired pneumonia (pCAP) often leads to prescription of antibiotics and hospital admission of children. Unfortunately, adherence to diagnosis and treatment guidelines is inconsistent, and misuse of antibiotics may occur. Antimicrobial stewardship interventions, which were started in many hospitals during the last decade, can optimize management of pCAP without negative patient outcomes. OBJECTIVES The objective of this retrospective analysis was to assess the influence of a newly implemented in-house pediatric antibiotic stewardship (ABS) initiative on guideline adherence and treatment quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective, patients' file-based analysis of the effects of an ABS initiative in a pediatric university hospital from January 2017 until March 2020. ABS initiative included creation of a local pCAP guideline for hospitalized children aged 90 days - 18 years, periodic training and continuous ABS support. RESULTS A total of 230 patients with pCAP were included (145 before and 85 after intervention). Implementation of the ABS program led to reduction of antibiotics prescription without clear indication from 26 % to 10 % (p < 0.05). The inappropriate use of antibiotics decreased from 64 % to 27 % (p < 0.05), the rate of incorrect doses declined from 17 % to 10 % (p < 0.05) and the mean duration of antibiotic treatment declined from 10 to 7 days (p < 0.05). There were no differences between the two groups regarding length of stay, treatment failure or readmissions for respiratory infection. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric antibiotic stewardship is an appropriate and safe method, and is beneficial to hospitalized patients with pCAP. Application of ABS programs may increase adherence to clinical guidelines and improve appropriate antimicrobial use without negative impact on patient outcomes. Multicenter follow-up studies are needed to clarify long-term effects of ABS programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Haase
- Abteilung für Neonatologie und Pädiatrische Intensivmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Halle, Halle.,Klinik für Neonatologie und Kinderintensivmedizin, Krankenhaus St. Elisabeth und St. Barbara, Halle
| | - J Baier
- Abteilung für Neonatologie und Pädiatrische Intensivmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Halle, Halle
| | - M Cristofolini
- Landesamt für Verbraucherschutz Sachsen-Anhalt, Magdeburg
| | - K Scheller
- Universitätsklinik und Poliklinik für Mund-, Kiefer- und Plastische Gesichtschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Halle, Halle
| | - S Moritz
- Klinische Infektiologie, Universitätsklinikum Halle, Halle
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Thi Thuy Do N, Greer RC, Lubell Y, Dittrich S, Vandendorpe M, Nguyen VA, Ngoc Thach P, Thi Dieu Ngan T, Van Kinh N, Hung Thai C, Dung LTK, Nguyen Thi Cam T, Nguyen TH, Nadjm B, van Doorn HR, Lewycka S. Implementation of C-reactive protein point of care testing to improve antibiotic targeting in respiratory illness in Vietnamese primary care (ICAT): a study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e040977. [PMID: 33361164 PMCID: PMC7759760 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION C-reactive protein (CRP), a biomarker of infection, has been used widely in high-income settings to guide antibiotic treatment in patients presenting with respiratory illnesses in primary care. Recent trials in low- and middle-income countries showed that CRP testing could safely reduce antibiotic use in patients with non-severe acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and fever in primary care. The studies, however, were conducted in a research-oriented context, with research staff closely monitoring healthcare behaviour thus potentially influencing healthcare workers' prescribing practices. For policy-makers to consider wide-scale roll-out, a pragmatic implementation study of the impact of CRP point of care (POC) testing in routine care is needed. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A pragmatic, cluster-randomised controlled trial, with two study arms, consisting of 24 commune health centres (CHC) in the intervention arm (provision of CRP tests with additional healthcare worker guidance) and 24 facilities acting as controls (routine care). Comparison between the treatment arms will be through logistic regression, with the treatment assignment as a fixed effect, and the CHC as a random effect. With 48 clusters, an average of 10 consultations per facility per week will result in approximately 520 over 1 year, and 24 960 in total (12 480 per arm). We will be able to detect a reduction of 12% to 23% or more in immediate antibiotic prescription as a result of the CRP POC intervention. The primary endpoint is the proportion of patient consultations for ARI resulting in immediate antibiotic prescription. Secondary endpoints include the proportion of all patients receiving an antibiotic prescription regardless of ARI diagnosis, frequency of re-consultation, subsequent antibiotic use when antibiotics are not prescribed, referral and hospitalisation. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study protocol was approved by the Oxford University Tropical Research Ethics Committee (OxTREC, Reference: 53-18), and the ethical committee of the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in Vietnam (Reference:07/HDDD-NDTW/2019). Results from this study will be disseminated via meetings with stakeholders, conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals. Authorship and reporting of this work will follow international guidelines. TRIAL REGISTRATION DETAILS NCT03855215; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel Claire Greer
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yoel Lubell
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sabine Dittrich
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Malaria/Fever Program, Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maida Vandendorpe
- Malaria/Fever Program, Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Van Anh Nguyen
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | - Cao Hung Thai
- Medical Services Administration, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Le Thi Kim Dung
- Medical Services Administration, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | - Behzad Nadjm
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Clinical Services Department, MRC Unit The Gambia at The London School of Hygiene, Banjul, Gambia
| | - H Rogier van Doorn
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sonia Lewycka
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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27
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Borek AJ, Wanat M, Atkins L, Sallis A, Ashiru-Oredope D, Beech E, Butler CC, Chadborn T, Hopkins S, Jones L, McNulty CAM, Roberts N, Shaw K, Taborn E, Tonkin-Crine S. Optimising antimicrobial stewardship interventions in English primary care: a behavioural analysis of qualitative and intervention studies. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e039284. [PMID: 33334829 PMCID: PMC7747536 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-039284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While various interventions have helped reduce antibiotic prescribing, further gains can be made. This study aimed to identify ways to optimise antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions by assessing the extent to which important influences on antibiotic prescribing are addressed (or not) by behavioural content of AMS interventions. SETTINGS English primary care. INTERVENTIONS AMS interventions targeting healthcare professionals' antibiotic prescribing for respiratory tract infections. METHODS We conducted two rapid reviews. The first included qualitative studies with healthcare professionals on self-reported influences on antibiotic prescribing. The influences were inductively coded and categorised using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Prespecified criteria were used to identify key TDF domains. The second review included studies of AMS interventions. Data on effectiveness were extracted. Components of effective interventions were extracted and coded using the TDF, Behaviour Change Wheel and Behaviour Change Techniques (BCTs) taxonomy. Using prespecified matrices, we assessed the extent to which BCTs and intervention functions addressed the key TDF domains of influences on prescribing. RESULTS We identified 13 qualitative studies, 41 types of influences on antibiotic prescribing and 6 key TDF domains of influences: 'beliefs about consequences', 'social influences', 'skills', 'environmental context and resources', 'intentions' and 'emotions'. We identified 17 research-tested AMS interventions; nine of them effective and four nationally implemented. Interventions addressed all six key TDF domains of influences. Four of these six key TDF domains were addressed by 50%-67% BCTs that were theoretically congruent with these domains, whereas TDF domain 'skills' was addressed by 24% of congruent BCTs and 'emotions' by none. CONCLUSIONS Further improvement of antibiotic prescribing could be facilitated by: (1) national implementation of effective research-tested AMS interventions (eg, electronic decision support tools, training in interactive use of leaflets, point-of-care testing); (2) targeting important, less-addressed TDF domains (eg, 'skills', 'emotions'); (3) using relevant, under-used BCTs to target key TDF domains (eg, 'forming/reversing habits', 'reducing negative emotions', 'social support'). These could be incorporated into existing, or developed as new, AMS interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra J Borek
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Marta Wanat
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Louise Atkins
- Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anna Sallis
- Behavioural Insights, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Diane Ashiru-Oredope
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship and Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAI), Public Health England, London, UK
| | | | - Christopher C Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Tim Chadborn
- Behavioural Insights, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Susan Hopkins
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship and Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAI), Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Leah Jones
- Primary Care and Interventions Unit, Public Health England, Gloucester, UK
| | | | - Nia Roberts
- Bodleian Health Care Libraries, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Karen Shaw
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship and Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAI), Public Health England, London, UK
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Esther Taborn
- NHS England and NHS Improvement, London, UK
- NHS East Kent Clinical Commissioning Groups, Canterbury, UK
| | - Sarah Tonkin-Crine
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
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Haenssgen MJ, Charoenboon N, Xayavong T, Althaus T. Precarity and clinical determinants of healthcare-seeking behaviour and antibiotic use in rural Laos and Thailand. BMJ Glob Health 2020; 5:e003779. [PMID: 33298471 PMCID: PMC7733127 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-003779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The social determinants of health are a decisive yet persistently understudied area for tackling global health challenges like antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Precarity is one determinant whose importance is increasingly recognised, which we define here as 'a form of pernicious self-dependence that undermines individuals' control over their own lives and limits their ability to flexibly respond to crises'. We aimed to assess the relationship between precarity, other forms of deprivation and healthcare-seeking behaviour by asking, 'What is the impact of precarity, marginalisation and clinical presentation on healthcare-seeking behaviour?' and 'Do patients experiencing precarious livelihoods have clinically less advisable healthcare-seeking behaviour?' METHODS We used healthcare-seeking behaviour census survey data from rural Thailand and Laos, wherein five rural communities were surveyed two times over a period of 3 months (2-month recall period). Using descriptive statistical and multivariate logistic regression analysis on the illness level, we studied precarity alongside clinical presentation, marginalisation and facilitating solutions during an illness (eg, health-related phone use) as determinants of healthcare-seeking behaviour in the form of healthcare access and antibiotic use. RESULTS The data included 1421 illness episodes from 2066 villagers. Patients in precarious circumstances were up to 44.9 percentage points more likely to misuse antibiotics in the presence of situational facilitators (predicted antibiotic misuse: 6.2% (95% CI: 0.9% to 11.4%) vs 51.1% (95% CI: 16.6% to 85.5%) for precarious circumstances with/without facilitation). Marginalisation was linked to lower antibiotic use, but this did not translate into clinically more advisable behaviour. Clinical presentation played only a minor role in determining healthcare access and antibiotic use. CONCLUSIONS This study underlines the importance of context and local livelihoods in tackling drug resistance. While supporting the growing emphasis on AMR-sensitive development policy, we call for future research to study systematically the healthcare-seeking behaviour impact of precarious livelihoods, social policy and community development initiatives. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03241316.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco J Haenssgen
- Global Sustainable Development, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
- Institute of Advanced Study, University of Warwick, Coventry, West Midlands, UK
| | - Nutcha Charoenboon
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Thipphaphone Xayavong
- Jacobs, Cordova & Associates, Vientiane, Vientiane Capital, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Thomas Althaus
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford Centre for Tropical Medicine, Oxford, UK
- Mathematical and Economic Modelling, Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand
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29
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Bertoli G, Ronzoni N, Silva R, Spinicci M, Perlini C, Omega L, Ursini T, Bartoloni A, Olliaro P, Bisoffi Z, Buonfrate D. Usefulness of C-Reactive Protein and Other Host BioMarker Point-of-Care Tests in the Assessment of Non-Malarial Acute Febrile Illnesses: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 103:1797-1802. [PMID: 32901594 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
In low- and middle-income countries, in resource-limited settings, the implementation of diagnostic tools discriminating bacterial from nonbacterial fever is a matter of primary concern. The introduction of malaria rapid diagnostic tests highlighted the need for point-of-care tests (POCTs) supporting clinical decision-making for non-malarial febrile illnesses. The purpose of this work was to review the use of host biomarker POCTs for the assessment of acute non-malarial fever in resource-constraint settings. Specific objectives were as follows: 1) to estimate the accuracy of such tests in differentiating fever of bacterial from nonbacterial origin and 2) to assess the impact of host biomarkers on antibiotic prescription and clinical outcome. We conducted a systematic review searching PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Bireme. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (n CRD42019141735). Data on the accuracy of C-reactive protein (CRP) for the detection of bacterial infections were meta-analyzed using the hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic model, obtaining a summary ROC (SROC). We identified 2,192 articles, eight of which were included in the review. Among the different biomarkers evaluated, CRP was the one most frequently studied. The SROC presented an area under the curve = 0.77 (CI: 0.73-0.81), which indicates good accuracy to distinguish bacterial from nonbacterial infections. However, the optimal cutoff of CRP could not be assessed, and we found insufficient evidence about its impact on antibiotic prescription and clinical outcome. The role of CRP and other host biomarker POCTs for the assessment of acute non-malarial febrile illnesses in resource-constraint settings deserves further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bertoli
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Niccolò Ronzoni
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Ronaldo Silva
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Spinicci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - Chiara Perlini
- Scuola di Medicina, Università degli studi di Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Omega
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Malattie Infettive, Università degli Studi di Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Tamara Ursini
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Bartoloni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Firenze, Italy
| | - Piero Olliaro
- Foundation for Innovative Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Diagnostic and Public Health Department, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Dora Buonfrate
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Italy
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30
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C-reactive protein cut-offs used for acute respiratory infections in Danish general practice. BJGP Open 2020; 5:bjgpopen20X101136. [PMID: 33234515 PMCID: PMC7960524 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpopen20x101136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background GPs can use the C-reactive protein (CRP) point-of-care test (POCT) to assist when deciding whether to prescribe antibiotics for patients with acute respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Aim To estimate the CRP cut-off levels that Danish GPs use to guide antibiotic prescribing for patients presenting with different signs and symptoms of RTIs. Design & setting A cross-sectional study conducted in general practice in Denmark. Method During the winters of 2017 and 2018, 143 GPs and their staff registered consecutive patients with symptoms of an RTI according to the Audit Project Odense (APO) method. CRP cut-offs were estimated as the lowest level at which half of the patients were prescribed an antibiotic. Results In total, 7813 patients were diagnosed with an RTI, of whom 4617 (59%) had a CRP test performed. At least 25% of the patients were prescribed an antibiotic when the CRP level was >20 mg/L, at least 50% when CRP was >40 mg/L, and at least 75% when CRP was >50 mg/L. Lower thresholds were identified for patients aged ≥65 years and those presenting with a fever, poor general appearance, dyspnoea, abnormal lung auscultation, or ear/facial pain, and if the duration of symptoms was either short (≤1 day) or long (>14 days). Conclusion More than half of patients presenting to Danish general practice with symptoms of an RTI have a CRP test performed. At CRP levels >40 mg/L, the majority of patients have an antibiotic prescribed.
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31
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Wong JG, Aung AH, Lian W, Lye DC, Ooi CK, Chow A. Risk prediction models to guide antibiotic prescribing: a study on adult patients with uncomplicated upper respiratory tract infections in an emergency department. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2020; 9:171. [PMID: 33138859 PMCID: PMC7605344 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-020-00825-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appropriate antibiotic prescribing is key to combating antimicrobial resistance. Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common reasons for emergency department (ED) visits and antibiotic use. Differentiating between bacterial and viral infections is not straightforward. We aim to provide an evidence-based clinical decision support tool for antibiotic prescribing using prediction models developed from local data. METHODS Seven hundred-fifteen patients with uncomplicated URTI were recruited and analysed from Singapore's busiest ED, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, from June 2016 to November 2018. Confirmatory tests were performed using the multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for respiratory viruses and point-of-care test for C-reactive protein. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were extracted from the hospital electronic medical records. Seventy percent of the data was used for training and the remaining 30% was used for validation. Decision trees, LASSO and logistic regression models were built to predict when antibiotics were not needed. RESULTS The median age of the cohort was 36 years old, with 61.2% being male. Temperature and pulse rate were significant factors in all 3 models. The area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) on the validation set for the models were similar. (LASSO: 0.70 [95% CI: 0.62-0.77], logistic regression: 0.72 [95% CI: 0.65-0.79], decision tree: 0.67 [95% CI: 0.59-0.74]). Combining the results from all models, 58.3% of study participants would not need antibiotics. CONCLUSION The models can be easily deployed as a decision support tool to guide antibiotic prescribing in busy EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Guoxian Wong
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Office of Clinical Epidemiology, Analytics and Knowledge, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Aung-Hein Aung
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Office of Clinical Epidemiology, Analytics and Knowledge, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Weixiang Lian
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Office of Clinical Epidemiology, Analytics and Knowledge, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - David Chien Lye
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chee-Kheong Ooi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Angela Chow
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Office of Clinical Epidemiology, Analytics and Knowledge, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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32
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Fung AWS. Utilizing connectivity and data management system for effective quality management and regulatory compliance in point of care testing. Pract Lab Med 2020; 22:e00187. [PMID: 33204792 PMCID: PMC7649638 DOI: 10.1016/j.plabm.2020.e00187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Point of care testing (POCT) is one of the fastest growing disciplines in clinical laboratory medicine. POCT devices are widely used in both acute and chronic patient management in the hospital and primary physician office settings. As demands for POCT in various healthcare settings increase, managing the quality and regulatory compliance are continually challenging. Despite technological advances in applying automatic system checks and built-in quality control to prevent analytical and operator errors, poor planning for POCT connectivity and informatics can limit data accessibility and management efficiency which impedes the utilization of POCT to its full potential. This article will summarize how connectivity and data management system can improve timely access to POCT results, effective management of POCT programs, and ensure regulatory compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela W S Fung
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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33
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Martínez-González NA, Keizer E, Plate A, Coenen S, Valeri F, Verbakel JYJ, Rosemann T, Neuner-Jehle S, Senn O. Point-of-Care C-Reactive Protein Testing to Reduce Antibiotic Prescribing for Respiratory Tract Infections in Primary Care: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9090610. [PMID: 32948060 PMCID: PMC7559694 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9090610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
C-reactive protein (CRP) point-of-care testing (POCT) is increasingly being promoted to reduce diagnostic uncertainty and enhance antibiotic stewardship. In primary care, respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are the most common reason for inappropriate antibiotic prescribing, which is a major driver for antibiotic resistance. We systematically reviewed the available evidence on the impact of CRP-POCT on antibiotic prescribing for RTIs in primary care. Thirteen moderate to high-quality studies comprising 9844 participants met our inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses showed that CRP-POCT significantly reduced immediate antibiotic prescribing at the index consultation compared with usual care (RR 0.79, 95%CI 0.70 to 0.90, p = 0.0003, I2 = 76%) but not during 28-day (n = 7) follow-up. The immediate effect was sustained at 12 months (n = 1). In children, CRP-POCT reduced antibiotic prescribing when CRP (cut-off) guidance was provided (n = 2). Meta-analyses showed significantly higher rates of re-consultation within 30 days (n = 8, 1 significant). Clinical recovery, resolution of symptoms, and hospital admissions were not significantly different between CRP-POCT and usual care. CRP-POCT can reduce immediate antibiotic prescribing for RTIs in primary care (number needed to (NNT) for benefit = 8) at the expense of increased re-consultations (NNT for harm = 27). The increase in re-consultations and longer-term effects of CRP-POCT need further evaluation. Overall, the benefits of CRP-POCT outweigh the potential harms (NNTnet = 11).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahara Anani Martínez-González
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich and University Hospital of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.P.); (F.V.); (T.R.); (S.N.-J.); (O.S.)
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, PO Box 4466, CH-6002 Lucerne, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
| | - Ellen Keizer
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich and University Hospital of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.P.); (F.V.); (T.R.); (S.N.-J.); (O.S.)
| | - Andreas Plate
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich and University Hospital of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.P.); (F.V.); (T.R.); (S.N.-J.); (O.S.)
| | - Samuel Coenen
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Family Medicine & Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp-Campus Drie Eiken, Doornstraat 331, 2610 Antwerp (Wilrijk), Belgium;
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp-Campus Drie Eiken, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp (Wilrijk), Belgium
| | - Fabio Valeri
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich and University Hospital of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.P.); (F.V.); (T.R.); (S.N.-J.); (O.S.)
| | - Jan Yvan Jos Verbakel
- EPI-Centre, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Kapucijnenvoer 33, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, NIHR Community Healthcare MIC, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Primary Care Building, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich and University Hospital of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.P.); (F.V.); (T.R.); (S.N.-J.); (O.S.)
| | - Stefan Neuner-Jehle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich and University Hospital of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.P.); (F.V.); (T.R.); (S.N.-J.); (O.S.)
| | - Oliver Senn
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich and University Hospital of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland; (E.K.); (A.P.); (F.V.); (T.R.); (S.N.-J.); (O.S.)
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Rose MA, Barker M, Liese J, Adams O, Ankermann T, Baumann U, Brinkmann F, Bruns R, Dahlheim M, Ewig S, Forster J, Hofmann G, Kemen C, Lück C, Nadal D, Nüßlein T, Regamey N, Riedler J, Schmidt S, Schwerk N, Seidenberg J, Tenenbaum T, Trapp S, van der Linden M. [Guidelines for the Management of Community Acquired Pneumonia in Children and Adolescents (Pediatric Community Acquired Pneumonia, pCAP) - Issued under the Responsibility of the German Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases (DGPI) and the German Society for Pediatric Pulmonology (GPP)]. Pneumologie 2020; 74:515-544. [PMID: 32823360 DOI: 10.1055/a-1139-5132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The present guideline aims to improve the evidence-based management of children and adolescents with pediatric community-acquired pneumonia (pCAP). Despite a prevalence of approx. 300 cases per 100 000 children per year in Central Europe, mortality is very low. Prevention includes infection control measures and comprehensive immunization. The diagnosis can and should be established clinically by history, physical examination and pulse oximetry, with fever and tachypnea as cardinal features. Additional signs or symptoms such as severely compromised general condition, poor feeding, dehydration, altered consciousness or seizures discriminate subjects with severe pCAP from those with non-severe pCAP. Within an age-dependent spectrum of infectious agents, bacterial etiology cannot be reliably differentiated from viral or mixed infections by currently available biomarkers. Most children and adolescents with non-severe pCAP and oxygen saturation > 92 % can be managed as outpatients without laboratory/microbiology workup or imaging. Anti-infective agents are not generally indicated and can be safely withheld especially in children of young age, with wheeze or other indices suggesting a viral origin. For calculated antibiotic therapy, aminopenicillins are the preferred drug class with comparable efficacy of oral (amoxicillin) and intravenous administration (ampicillin). Follow-up evaluation after 48 - 72 hours is mandatory for the assessment of clinical course, treatment success and potential complications such as parapneumonic pleural effusion or empyema, which may necessitate alternative or add-on therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Rose
- Fachbereich Medizin, Johann-Wolfgang-Goethe-Universität Frankfurt/Main und Zentrum für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Klinikum St. Georg Leipzig
| | - M Barker
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Helios Klinikum Emil von Behring, Berlin
| | - J Liese
- Kinderklinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsklinikum an der Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg
| | - O Adams
- Institut für Virologie, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf
| | - T Ankermann
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin 1, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel
| | - U Baumann
- Pädiatrische Pneumologie, Allergologie und Neonatologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover
| | - F Brinkmann
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Ruhr-Universität Bochum
| | - R Bruns
- Zentrum für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität Greifswald
| | - M Dahlheim
- Praxis für Kinderpneumologie und Allergologie, Mannheim
| | - S Ewig
- Kliniken für Pneumologie und Infektiologie, Thoraxzentrum Ruhrgebiet, Bochum/Herne
| | - J Forster
- Kinderabteilung St. Hedwig, St. Josefskrankenhaus , Freiburg und Merzhausen
| | | | - C Kemen
- Katholisches Kinderkrankenhaus Wilhelmstift, Hamburg
| | - C Lück
- Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Hygiene, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - D Nadal
- Kinderspital Zürich, Schweiz
| | - T Nüßlein
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Gemeinschaftsklinikum Mittelrhein, Koblenz
| | - N Regamey
- Pädiatrische Pneumologie, Kinderspital Luzern, Schweiz
| | - J Riedler
- Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Kardinal Schwarzenberg'sches Krankenhaus, Schwarzach, Österreich
| | - S Schmidt
- Zentrum für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität Greifswald
| | - N Schwerk
- Pädiatrische Pneumologie, Allergologie und Neonatologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover
| | - J Seidenberg
- Klinik für pädiatrische Pneumologie und Allergologie, Neonatologie, Intensivmedizin und Kinderkardiologie, Klinikum Oldenburg
| | - T Tenenbaum
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Mannheim
| | | | - M van der Linden
- Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Universitätsklinikum Aachen
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van Griensven J, Cnops L, De Weggheleire A, Declercq S, Bottieau E. Point-of-Care Biomarkers to Guide Antibiotic Prescription for Acute Febrile Illness in Sub-Saharan Africa: Promises and Caveats. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa260. [PMID: 32818139 PMCID: PMC7423291 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Empiric malaria treatment in Sub-Saharan Africa has significantly decreased with the scaling-up of malaria rapid diagnostic tests; this coincided with a pronounced increase in empiric antibiotic prescriptions. In high-income countries, guidance for antibiotic prescriptions using biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) has reduced antibiotic use while safe-guarding patient safety. Importantly, several low-cost point-of-care CRP/PCT tests are currently available. However, only a few studies on the role of CRP/PCT in differentiating bacterial vs viral infections in acute febrile illness have been conducted in Sub-Saharan Africa. Studies from Central and West Africa (most of which is malaria-endemic) are particularly scarce, and only 1 has included adults. The evidence base for point-of-care use of CRP/PCT biomarkers in acute fever in Sub-Saharan Africa should be urgently built. Before engaging in clinical trials to assess clinical impact, pilot studies should be conducted to address key knowledge gaps including recommended CRP/PCT cutoff values and the effect of malaria coinfection.
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Avent ML, Cosgrove SE, Price-Haywood EG, van Driel ML. Antimicrobial stewardship in the primary care setting: from dream to reality? BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:134. [PMID: 32641063 PMCID: PMC7346425 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01191-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinicians who work in primary care are potentially the most influential healthcare professionals to address the problem of antibiotic resistance because this is where most antibiotics are prescribed. Despite a number of evidence based interventions targeting the management of community infections, the inappropriate antibiotic prescribing rates remain high. DISCUSSION The question is how can appropriate prescribing of antibiotics through the use of Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) programs be successfully implemented in primary care. We discuss that a top-down approach utilising a combination of strategies to ensure the sustainable implementation and uptake of AMS interventions in the community is necessary to support clinicians and ensure a robust implementation of AMS in primary care. Specifically, we recommend a national accreditation standard linked to the framework of Core Elements of Outpatient Antibiotic Stewardship, supported by resources to fund the implementation of AMS interventions that are connected to quality improvement initiatives. This article debates how this can be achieved. The paper highlights that in order to support the sustainable uptake of AMS programs in primary care, an approach similar to the hospital and post-acute care settings needs to be adopted, utilising a combination of behavioural and regulatory processes supported by sustainable funding. Without these strategies the problem of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing will not be adequately addressed in the community and the successful implementation and uptake of AMS programs will remain a dream.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Avent
- Statewide Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Queensland Health, Brisbane, Australia.
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - S E Cosgrove
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - E G Price-Haywood
- Ochsner Health System, Center for Outcomes and Health Services Research, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Ochnser Clinical School, The University of Queensland, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - M L van Driel
- Primary Care Clinical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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In-vitro diagnostic point-of-care tests in paediatric ambulatory care: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235605. [PMID: 32628707 PMCID: PMC7337322 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Paediatric consultations form a significant proportion of all consultations in ambulatory care. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) may offer a potential solution to improve clinical outcomes for children by reducing diagnostic uncertainty in acute illness, and streamlining management of chronic diseases. However, their clinical impact in paediatric ambulatory care is unknown. We aimed to describe the clinical impact of all in-vitro diagnostic POCTs on patient outcomes and healthcare processes in paediatric ambulatory care. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Pubmed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science from inception to 29 January 2020 without language restrictions. We included studies of children presenting to ambulatory care settings (general practice, hospital outpatient clinics, or emergency departments, walk-in centres, registered drug shops delivering healthcare) where in-vitro diagnostic POCTs were compared to usual care. We included all quantitative clinical outcome data across all conditions or infection syndromes reporting on the impact of POCTs on clinical care and healthcare processes. Where feasible, we calculated risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) by performing meta-analysis using random effects models. RESULTS We included 35 studies. Data relating to at least one outcome were available for 89,439 children of whom 45,283 had a POCT across six conditions or infection syndromes: malaria (n = 14); non-specific acute fever 'illness' (n = 7); sore throat (n = 5); acute respiratory tract infections (n = 5); HIV (n = 3); and diabetes (n = 1). Outcomes centred around decision-making such as prescription of medications or hospital referral. Pooled estimates showed that malarial-POCTs (Plasmodium falciparum) better targeted antimalarial treatment by reducing over-treatment by a third compared to usual care (RR 0.67; 95% CI [0.58 to 0.77], n = 36,949). HIV-POCTs improved initiating earlier antiretroviral therapy compared to usual care (RR, 3.11; 95% CI [1.55 to 6.25], n = 912). Across the other four conditions, there was limited evidence for the benefit of POCTs in paediatric ambulatory care except for acute respiratory tract infections (RTI) in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs), where POCT C-Reactive Protein (CRP) may reduce immediate antibiotic prescribing by a third (risk difference, -0.29 [-0.47, -0.11], n = 2,747). This difference was shown in randomised controlled trials in LMICs which included guidance on interpretation of POCT-CRP, specific training or employed a diagnostic algorithm prior to POC testing. CONCLUSION Overall, there is a paucity of evidence for the use of POCTs in paediatric ambulatory care. POCTs help to target prescribing for children with malaria and HIV. There is emerging evidence that POCT-CRP may better target antibiotic prescribing for children with acute RTIs in LMIC, but not in high-income countries. Research is urgently needed to understand where POCTs are likely to improve clinical outcomes in paediatric settings worldwide.
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Cohen JF, Pauchard JY, Hjelm N, Cohen R, Chalumeau M. Efficacy and safety of rapid tests to guide antibiotic prescriptions for sore throat. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 6:CD012431. [PMID: 32497279 PMCID: PMC7271976 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012431.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sore throat is a common condition caused by viruses or bacteria, and is a leading cause of antibiotic prescription in primary care. The most common bacterial species is group A streptococcus ('strep throat'). Between 50% to 70% of pharyngitis cases are treated with antibiotics, despite the majority of cases being viral in origin. One strategy to reduce antibiotics is to use rapid tests for group A streptococcus to guide antibiotic prescriptions. Rapid tests can be used alone or in combination with a clinical scoring system. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and safety of strategies based on rapid tests to guide antibiotic prescriptions for sore throat in primary care settings. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and LILACS, as well as the trial registries ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO ICTRP on 5 June 2019. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing rapid tests with management based on clinical grounds to guide the prescription of antibiotics for people with a sore throat in ambulatory care settings. We included trials that randomised individuals, as well as cluster-RCTs in which individual practitioners (or practices) or emergency departments were randomised. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data on the primary outcomes (number of participants provided with an antibiotic prescription; number of participants with an antibiotic dispensed) and secondary outcomes (duration of sore throat symptoms; duration of other symptoms; quality of life measures; number of participants with a complication attributed to the index infection; number of participants in need of re-consultation by the end of follow-up; number of participants in need of hospital admission by the end of follow-up; number of satisfied participants; number of participants with an adverse event attributed to the rapid test). We assessed the risk of bias of all included trials and used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence. We performed meta-analyses and sensitivity analyses when feasible. MAIN RESULTS We included five trials (2891 children and adult participants in total; 2545 participants after adjusting for clustering). Management in the intervention group was as follows: in three trials rapid tests were used in combination with a clinical scoring system; in one trial, some physicians were asked to use rapid tests alone, while others were asked to use rapid tests in combination with a clinical scoring system; in one trial, rapid tests were used alone. Based on data from five trials (2545 participants), a large reduction in prescribed antibiotics was found in the rapid test group (481/1197) versus management based on clinical grounds (865/1348), for a summary risk difference (RD) of -25%, 95% confidence interval (CI) -31% to -18%; I2 = 62%; moderate-certainty evidence. Estimates of effect on antibiotic prescription rates were stable in various sensitivity analyses. Based on data from two trials (900 people) originating from the same overarching study, the evidence suggests that rapid tests may not reduce dispensed antibiotic treatments: rapid test group (156/445) versus management based on clinical grounds (197/455); summary RD -7%, 95% CI -17% to 2%; I2 = 53%; low-certainty evidence. Four trials (2075 participants) reported data on the number of participants with a complication attributed to the index infection; the summary odds ratio (OR) was 0.85, 95% CI 0.03 to 26.65; P = 0.93; I2 = 62%; very low-certainty evidence, which means that people in the rapid testing group were less likely to develop complications of the index infection, but the evidence is very uncertain. Two trials (1161 participants) reported on the number of participants in need of re-consultation by the end of follow-up; the summary OR was 1.12, 95% CI 0.57 to 2.21; P = 0.74; I2 = 59%; low-certainty evidence, which means that participants in the rapid testing group were more likely to be in need of re-consultation by the end of the study follow-up, but the evidence is uncertain. Lack of data impeded assessment of other secondary outcomes (including safety outcomes) and of sources of heterogeneity. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Rapid testing to guide antibiotic treatment for sore throat in primary care probably reduces antibiotic prescription rates by 25% (absolute risk difference), but may have little or no impact on antibiotic dispensing. More studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of rapid test-guided antibiotic prescribing, notably to evaluate patient-centred outcomes and variability across subgroups (e.g. adults versus children).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémie F Cohen
- Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, AP-HP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, CRESS, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Yves Pauchard
- Département Médico-Chirurgical de Pédiatrie, Hôpital de l'Enfance de Lausanne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nils Hjelm
- Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team (EPOPé), Centre de Recherche Épidémiologie et Statistique Sorbonne Paris Cité (CRESS), Inserm UMR1153, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Robert Cohen
- Association Clinique et Thérapeutique Infantile du Val-de-Marne (ACTIV), Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France
| | - Martin Chalumeau
- Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, AP-HP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, CRESS, INSERM, Paris, France
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Francis NA, Gillespie D, White P, Bates J, Lowe R, Sewell B, Phillips R, Stanton H, Kirby N, Wootton M, Thomas-Jones E, Hood K, Llor C, Cals J, Melbye H, Naik G, Gal M, Fitzsimmons D, Alam MF, Riga E, Cochrane A, Butler CC. C-reactive protein point-of-care testing for safely reducing antibiotics for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: the PACE RCT. Health Technol Assess 2020; 24:1-108. [PMID: 32202490 PMCID: PMC7132534 DOI: 10.3310/hta24150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most patients presenting with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) in primary care are prescribed antibiotics, but these may not be beneficial, and they can cause side effects and increase the risk of subsequent resistant infections. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) could safely reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescribing and antimicrobial resistance. OBJECTIVE To determine whether or not the use of a C-reactive protein (CRP) POCT to guide prescribing decisions for AECOPD reduces antibiotic consumption without having a negative impact on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) health status and is cost-effective. DESIGN A multicentre, parallel-arm, randomised controlled open trial with an embedded process, and a health economic evaluation. SETTING General practices in Wales and England. A UK NHS perspective was used for the economic analysis. PARTICIPANTS Adults (aged ≥ 40 years) with a primary care diagnosis of COPD, presenting with an AECOPD (with at least one of increased dyspnoea, increased sputum volume and increased sputum purulence) of between 24 hours' and 21 days' duration. INTERVENTION CRP POCTs to guide antibiotic prescribing decisions for AECOPD, compared with usual care (no CRP POCT), using remote online randomisation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Patient-reported antibiotic consumption for AECOPD within 4 weeks post randomisation and COPD health status as measured with the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) at 2 weeks. For the economic evaluation, patient-reported resource use and the EuroQol-5 Dimensions were included. RESULTS In total, 653 participants were randomised from 86 general practices. Three withdrew consent and one was randomised in error, leaving 324 participants in the usual-care arm and 325 participants in the CRP POCT arm. Antibiotics were consumed for AECOPD by 212 out of 274 participants (77.4%) and 150 out of 263 participants (57.0%) in the usual-care and CRP POCT arm, respectively [adjusted odds ratio 0.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20 to 0.47]. The CCQ analysis comprised 282 and 281 participants in the usual-care and CRP POCT arms, respectively, and the adjusted mean CCQ score difference at 2 weeks was 0.19 points (two-sided 90% CI -0.33 to -0.05 points). The upper limit of the CI did not contain the prespecified non-inferiority margin of 0.3. The total cost from a NHS perspective at 4 weeks was £17.59 per patient higher in the CRP POCT arm (95% CI -£34.80 to £69.98; p = 0.408). The mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were £222 per 1% reduction in antibiotic consumption compared with usual care at 4 weeks and £15,251 per quality-adjusted life-year gained at 6 months with no significant changes in sensitivity analyses. Patients and clinicians were generally supportive of including CRP POCT in the assessment of AECOPD. CONCLUSIONS A CRP POCT diagnostic strategy achieved meaningful reductions in patient-reported antibiotic consumption without impairing COPD health status or increasing costs. There were no associated harms and both patients and clinicians valued the diagnostic strategy. FUTURE WORK Implementation studies that also build on our qualitative findings could help determine the effect of this intervention over the longer term. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN24346473. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 15. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick A Francis
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - David Gillespie
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Patrick White
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Janine Bates
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rachel Lowe
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Bernadette Sewell
- Swansea Centre for Health Economics, College of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Rhiannon Phillips
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Helen Stanton
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Nigel Kirby
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mandy Wootton
- Specialist Antimicrobial Chemotherapy Unit, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Emma Thomas-Jones
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kerenza Hood
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Carl Llor
- University Institute in Primary Care Research Jordi Gol, Via Roma Health Centre, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jochen Cals
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Hasse Melbye
- General Practice Research Unit, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Gurudutt Naik
- Department of Wound Healing, University Hospital Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Micaela Gal
- Wales Primary and Emergency Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Deborah Fitzsimmons
- Swansea Centre for Health Economics, College of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Mohammed Fasihul Alam
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Evgenia Riga
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ann Cochrane
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher C Butler
- Primary Care and Vaccines Collaborative Clinical Trials Unit, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Sartelli M, Pagani L, Iannazzo S, Moro ML, Viale P, Pan A, Ansaloni L, Coccolini F, D’Errico MM, Agreiter I, Amadio Nespola G, Barchiesi F, Benigni V, Binazzi R, Cappanera S, Chiodera A, Cola V, Corsi D, Cortese F, Crapis M, Cristini F, D’Arpino A, De Simone B, Di Bella S, Di Marzo F, Donati A, Elisei D, Fantoni M, Ferrari A, Foghetti D, Francisci D, Gattuso G, Giacometti A, Gesuelli GC, Marmorale C, Martini E, Meledandri M, Murri R, Padrini D, Palmieri D, Pauri P, Rebagliati C, Ricchizzi E, Sambri V, Schimizzi AM, Siquini W, Scoccia L, Scoppettuolo G, Sganga G, Storti N, Tavio M, Toccafondi G, Tumietto F, Viaggi B, Vivarelli M, Tranà C, Raso M, Labricciosa FM, Dhingra S, Catena F. A proposal for a comprehensive approach to infections across the surgical pathway. World J Emerg Surg 2020; 15:13. [PMID: 32070390 PMCID: PMC7029591 DOI: 10.1186/s13017-020-00295-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite evidence supporting the effectiveness of best practices in infection prevention and management, many healthcare workers fail to implement them and evidence-based practices tend to be underused in routine practice. Prevention and management of infections across the surgical pathway should always focus on collaboration among all healthcare workers sharing knowledge of best practices. To clarify key issues in the prevention and management of infections across the surgical pathway, a multidisciplinary task force of experts convened in Ancona, Italy, on May 31, 2019, for a national meeting. This document represents the executive summary of the final statements approved by the expert panel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Sartelli
- Department of Surgery, Macerata Hospital, ASUR Marche, Macerata, Italy
| | - Leonardo Pagani
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Bolzano Central Hospital, Bolzano, Italy
| | | | - Maria Luisa Moro
- Regional Agency for Health and Social Care, Emilia-Romagna Region–ASSR, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Viale
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Clinics of Infectious Diseases, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, “Alma Mater Studiorum”-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Angelo Pan
- Infectious Diseases, ASST di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - Luca Ansaloni
- General, Emergency and Trauma Surgery Department, Bufalini Hospital, Cesena, Italy
| | - Federico Coccolini
- Emergency Surgery Unit, New Santa Chiara Hospital, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marcello Mario D’Errico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | - Iris Agreiter
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Denis Burkitt, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Francesco Barchiesi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti Marche Nord, Pesaro, Italy
| | - Valeria Benigni
- Clinical Administration, Senigallia Hospital, ASUR Marche, Senigallia, AN Italy
| | | | - Stefano Cappanera
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of Medicine, “S. Maria” Hospital, Terni, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Cola
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniela Corsi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit, Civitanova Marche Hospital, ASUR Marche, Civitanova Marche, MC Italy
| | - Francesco Cortese
- Emergency Surgery and Trauma Care Unit, San Filippo Neri Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Crapis
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Pordenone Hospital, Pordenone, Friuli-Venezia Giulia Italy
| | | | - Alessandro D’Arpino
- Hospital Pharmacy Unit, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Belinda De Simone
- Operative Unit of General Surgery, Azienda USL IRCCS Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Bella
- Infectious Diseases Department, Trieste University Hospital, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Abele Donati
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniele Elisei
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit, Macerata Hospital, ASUR Marche, Macerata, Italy
| | - Massimo Fantoni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS, Istituto di Clinica delle Malattie Infettive, Università Cattolica S. Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Ferrari
- Department of Critical Care Medicine Unit, San Filippo Neri Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Domitilla Foghetti
- Department of Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti Marche Nord, Pesaro, Italy
| | | | - Gianni Gattuso
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Carlo Poma Hospital, Mantua, Italy
| | - Andrea Giacometti
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, Department of Biological Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Marmorale
- Department of Surgery, Marche Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - Enrica Martini
- Hospital Hygiene Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Rita Murri
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS, Istituto di Clinica delle Malattie Infettive, Università Cattolica S. Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Padrini
- Clinical Administration Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, USL Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Paola Pauri
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Senigallia Hospital, Senigallia, AN Italy
| | | | - Enrico Ricchizzi
- Regional Agency for Health and Social Care, Emilia-Romagna Region–ASSR, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vittorio Sambri
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine (DIMES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Unit of Microbiology, The Great Romagna Area Hub Laboratory, Pievesestina, Cesena, Italy
| | | | - Walter Siquini
- Department of Surgery, Macerata Hospital, ASUR Marche, Macerata, Italy
| | - Loredana Scoccia
- Unit of Hospital Pharmacy, Macerata Hospital, ASUR Marche, Macerata, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Scoppettuolo
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sganga
- Division of Emergency Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marcello Tavio
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giulio Toccafondi
- Clinical Risk Management and Patient Safety Center, Tuscany Region, Florence, Italy
| | - Fabio Tumietto
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Clinics of Infectious Diseases, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, “Alma Mater Studiorum”-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Bruno Viaggi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Neuro Intensive Care Unit, Florence Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Vivarelli
- Unit of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary and Transplant Surgery, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Cristian Tranà
- Department of Surgery, Macerata Hospital, ASUR Marche, Macerata, Italy
| | | | | | - Sameer Dhingra
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Fausto Catena
- Emergency Surgery Department, Parma University Hospital, Parma, Italy
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Lubell Y, Chandna A, Smithuis F, White L, Wertheim HFL, Redard-Jacot M, Katz Z, Dondorp A, Day N, White N, Dittrich S. Economic considerations support C-reactive protein testing alongside malaria rapid diagnostic tests to guide antimicrobial therapy for patients with febrile illness in settings with low malaria endemicity. Malar J 2019; 18:442. [PMID: 31878978 PMCID: PMC6933672 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-3059-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is no longer a common cause of febrile illness in many regions of the tropics. In part, this success is a result of improved access to accurate diagnosis and effective anti-malarial treatment, including in many hard-to-reach rural areas. However, in these settings, management of other causes of febrile illness remains challenging. Health systems are often weak and other than malaria rapid tests no other diagnostics are available. With millions of deaths occurring annually due to treatable bacterial infections and the ever increasing spread of antimicrobial resistance, improvement in the management of febrile illness is a global public health priority. Whilst numerous promising point-of-care diagnostics are in the pipeline, substantial progress can be made in the interim with existing tools: C-reactive protein (CRP) is a highly sensitive and moderately specific biomarker of bacterial infection and has been in clinical use for these purposes for decades, with dozens of low-cost devices commercially available. This paper takes a health-economics approach to consider the possible advantages of CRP point-of-care tests alongside rapid diagnostic tests for malaria, potentially in a single multiplex device, to guide antimicrobial therapy for patients with febrile illness. Three rudimentary assessments of the costs and benefits of this approach all indicate that this is likely to be cost-effective when considering the incremental costs of the CRP tests as compared with either (i) the improved health outcomes for patients with bacterial illnesses; (ii) the costs of antimicrobial resistance averted; or (iii) the economic benefits of better management of remaining malaria cases and shorter malaria elimination campaigns in areas of low transmission. While CRP-guided antibiotic therapy alone cannot resolve all challenges associated with management of febrile illness in remote tropical settings, in the short-term a multiplexed CRP and malaria RDT could be highly cost-effective and utilize the well-established funding and distribution systems already in place for malaria RDTs. These findings should spark further interest amongst industry, academics and policy-makers in the development and deployment of such diagnostics, and discussion on their geographically appropriate use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoel Lubell
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. .,Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Arjun Chandna
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. .,Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Frank Smithuis
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Myanmar Oxford Clinical Research Unit, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Lisa White
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Heiman F L Wertheim
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maël Redard-Jacot
- Foundation of Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Zachary Katz
- Foundation of Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Arjen Dondorp
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicholas Day
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicholas White
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit (MORU), Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sabine Dittrich
- Foundation of Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
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42
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Ruiz R, Moragas A, Trapero-Bertran M, Sisó A, Berenguera A, Oliva G, Borràs-Santos A, García-Sangenís A, Puig-Junoy J, Cots JM, Morros R, Mora T, Lanau-Roig A, Monfà R, Troncoso A, Abellana RM, Gálvez P, Medina-Perucha L, Bjerrum L, Amo I, Barragán N, Llor C. Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Improving clinicians' diagnostic and communication Skills on Antibiotic prescribing Appropriateness in patients with acute Cough in primary care in CATalonia (the ISAAC-CAT study): study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. Trials 2019; 20:740. [PMID: 31847912 PMCID: PMC6918568 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-3727-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite their marginal benefit, about 60% of acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRTIs) are currently treated with antibiotics in Catalonia. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of a continuous disease-focused intervention (C-reactive protein [CRP]) and an illness-focused intervention (enhancement of communication skills to optimise doctor-patient consultations) on antibiotic prescribing in patients with ALRTIs in Catalan primary care centres. Methods/design A cluster randomised, factorial, controlled trial aimed at including 20 primary care centres (N = 2940 patients) with patients older than 18 years of age presenting for a first consultation with an ALRTI will be included in the study. Primary care centres will be identified on the basis of socioeconomic data and antibiotic consumption. Centres will be randomly assigned according to hierarchical clustering to any of four trial arms: usual care, CRP testing, enhanced communication skills backed up with patient leaflets, or combined interventions. A cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis will be performed from the societal and national healthcare system perspectives, and the time horizon of the analysis will be 1 year. Two qualitative studies (pre- and post-clinical trial) aimed to identify the expectations and concerns of patients with ALRTIs and the barriers and facilitators of each intervention arm will be run. Family doctors and nurses assigned to the interventions will participate in a 2-h training workshop before the inception of the trial and will receive a monthly intervention-tailored training module during the year of the trial period. Primary outcomes will be antibiotic use within the first 6 weeks, duration of moderate to severe cough, and the quality-adjusted life-years. Secondary outcomes will be duration of illness and severity of cough measured using a symptom diary, healthcare re-consultations, hospital admissions, and complications. Healthcare costs will be considered and expressed in 2021 euros (year foreseen to finalise the study) of the current year of the analysis. Univariate and multivariate sensitivity analyses will be carried out. Discussion The ISAAC-CAT project will contribute to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of different strategies for more appropriate antibiotic prescribing that are currently out of the scope of the actual clinical guidelines. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03931577.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafa Ruiz
- Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Moragas
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Jaume I Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Marta Trapero-Bertran
- Research Institute for Evaluation and Public Policies (IRAPP), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Anna Berenguera
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Glòria Oliva
- Ministry of Health, Government of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alícia Borràs-Santos
- Institut Universitari de Pacients (Patients' University Institut), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana García-Sangenís
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Puig-Junoy
- Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)-Barcelona School of Management, Barcelona, Spain of Economics and Business, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Cots
- Universitat de Barcelona, La Marina Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Morros
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Toni Mora
- Research Institute for Evaluation and Public Policies (IRAPP), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Lanau-Roig
- La Marina Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Associació d'Infermeria Familiar i Comunitària de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Monfà
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), UICEC de IDIAP Jordi Gol - Plataforma SCReN, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Amelia Troncoso
- Àrea de Suport al Medicament i Servei de Farmàcia Barcelona, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa M Abellana
- Biostatistics, Department of Basic Clinical Practice, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pau Gálvez
- Institut Universitari de Pacients (Patients' University Institut), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Medina-Perucha
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Lars Bjerrum
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Isabel Amo
- Institut Universitari de Pacients (Patients' University Institut), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nieves Barragán
- Catalan Society of Family Medicine, Group on Communication, Health Centre Vallcarca, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carl Llor
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Manso Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain.
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Mantzourani E, Hicks R, Evans A, Williams E, Way C, Deslandes R. Community Pharmacist Views On The Early Stages Of Implementation Of A Pathfinder Sore Throat Test And Treat Service In Wales: An Exploratory Study. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 8:105-113. [PMID: 31815100 PMCID: PMC6858457 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s225333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the views and opinions of community pharmacists regarding their initial experience of and levels of preparedness for the pathfinder sore throat test and treat (STTT) service in Wales. METHODS A phenomenological qualitative approach with constructivist paradigm was adopted as the first cycle of ongoing action research. Semi-structured interviews with community pharmacists who had completed at least three consultations within the first 3 weeks of the service were conducted, with informed consent and audio recorded. Interviews were transcribed ad verbatim and data were thematically analysed both inductively and deductively. RESULTS A total of seven interviews with pharmacists who had conducted more than three consultations identified three main themes: 1) perceived impact of the service on patient care, including the value of the structure and technology infrastructure, the role of STTT towards antimicrobial stewardship, and its potential role in rebalancing primary care resources so that workload is distributed appropriately among healthcare professionals; 2) factors that empower pharmacists to deliver the service, in particular quality and consistency of training, appropriate staffing resource and internally motivated willingness to engage; 3) interface with GP surgeries such as nature of existing relationships before implementing the service, role of GP staff and GP perceived value of STTT. CONCLUSION The pathfinder STTT service has been well received by pharmacists who recognised the service's role in providing patient education and contributing to principles of antimicrobial stewardship and described factors that would empower them to deliver the service confidently. Results have been fed back to the service implementation team to inform future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efi Mantzourani
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
- NHS Wales Informatics Service, Primary Care Services, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Ricky Hicks
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Andrew Evans
- Welsh Government, Health and Social Services, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Emma Williams
- NHS Wales Informatics Service, Primary Care Services, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Cheryl Way
- NHS Wales Informatics Service, Primary Care Services, Cardiff, Wales, UK
| | - Rhian Deslandes
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
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Hansen LS, Lykkegaard J, Thomsen JL, Hansen MP. Acute lower respiratory tract infections: Symptoms, findings and management in Danish general practice. Eur J Gen Pract 2019; 26:14-20. [PMID: 31650886 PMCID: PMC7034054 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2019.1674279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Acute lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are among the most common infections managed in general practice. Objectives: To describe differences in reported symptoms, findings and management of patients diagnosed with acute LRTIs, and to explore possible associations between these findings and being diagnosed with pneumonia. Methods: During one winter season (2017 or 2018), a prospective registration of patients diagnosed with either acute bronchitis (ICPC-2: R78) or pneumonia (ICPC-2: R81) was conducted in Danish general practice for 20 days. A 42 item registration chart was filled in for each patient. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-square test and multiple logistic regressions were used for data analysis. Results: In total, 70 general practices participated with 1384 patients registered. Patients diagnosed with pneumonia were more often reported as having a fever, dyspnoea, increased purulent sputum, abnormal pulmonary auscultation/chest retractions, and were more often assessed as unwell by the healthcare professional, than those diagnosed with acute bronchitis. Very few patients had a chest X-ray. Contrary, most patients had a C-reactive protein (CRP) test performed (pneumonia: 83%; acute bronchitis: 71%). Respectively, 93% and 20% of patients were treated with antibiotics. Having a fever, an abnormal pulmonary auscultation/chest retractions or being assessed as unwell increased the likelihood of the diagnosis pneumonia at least fivefold. Even a slightly elevated CRP (≥11 mg/L) was positively associated with being diagnosed with pneumonia. Conclusion: Danish healthcare professionals are highly influenced by symptoms, signs and CRP tests when diagnosing patients with acute LRTIs in general practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesper Lykkegaard
- Audit Project Odense, Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Miravitlles M, Llor C, Bjerrum L, Sethi S, Anzueto A. Is CRP-guided antibiotic treatment a safe way to reduce antibiotic use in severe hospitalised patients with exacerbations of COPD? Eur Respir J 2019; 54:54/4/1901405. [PMID: 31624129 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01405-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Miravitlles
- Pneumology Dept, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron/Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carl Llor
- Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Dept of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Bjerrum
- Research Unit for General Practice and Section of General Practice, Dept of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sanjay Sethi
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Dept of Medicine, University at Buffalo, SUNY, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Antonio Anzueto
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.,Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Abstract
This paper summarises the discussion during the workshop on 'Overdiagnosis and overtreatment of infectious diseases in general practice. How and where to break the endless loop?' The workshop was organised as part of the overdiagnosis conference carried out in August 2018 in Copenhagen, Denmark. During the workshop, participants from all over the world reflected on the challenges of embracing the overdiagnosis paradigm as a tool to advance understanding and to find solutions to the unnecessary use of antibiotics in primary health care. It was concluded that the narrow view of the overdiagnosis paradigm does not provide theoretical resources to address the problem of the inherent connection between diagnostic error and treatment decision. In contrast to the overdiagnosis paradigm, the too much medicine paradigm is an umbrella term suitable to frame actions that recognise the complexity of the decision-making process during the consultation and its impact on overtreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Cordoba
- Center for Research and Education in General Practice, Institute of Public health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carl Llor
- Center for Research and Education in General Practice, Institute of Public health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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47
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Damhorst GL, Tyburski EA, Brand O, Martin GS, Lam WA. Diagnosis of acute serious illness: the role of point-of-care technologies. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2019; 11:22-34. [PMID: 34079919 PMCID: PMC8168915 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2019.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Access to rapid diagnostic information is a core value of point-of-care (POC) technology. This is particularly relevant in acute, emergency, and critical care settings where diagnostic speed and precision directly guide the management of patients with potentially life-threatening conditions. Many POC diagnostics described in the literature, however, remain largely unproven and have yet to enter the market entirely. Only a few have traversed the translation and commercialization pathways to reach widespread clinical adoption. Moreover, even technologies that have successfully translated to the patient bedside still frequently lack an evidence base showing improvement of clinical outcomes. In this review, we present aspects of diagnosis of acute life-threatening diseases and describe the potential role of POC technologies, emphasizing the available evidence of clinical outcomes. Finally, we discuss what is needed to identify clinically meaningful new technologies and translate them toward the long-promised goal of better health through rapid POC diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erika A Tyburski
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- The Atlanta Center for Microsystems-Engineered Point-of-Care Technologies, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Sanguina, LLC, Peachtree Corners, GA, USA
| | - Oliver Brand
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- The Atlanta Center for Microsystems-Engineered Point-of-Care Technologies, Atlanta, GA, USA
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Greg S Martin
- The Atlanta Center for Microsystems-Engineered Point-of-Care Technologies, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Georgia Clinical and Translational Science Alliance, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Wilbur A Lam
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- The Atlanta Center for Microsystems-Engineered Point-of-Care Technologies, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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48
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Cole KA, Rivard KR, Dumkow LE. Antimicrobial Stewardship Interventions to Combat Antibiotic Resistance: an Update on Targeted Strategies. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2019; 21:33. [PMID: 31473861 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-019-0689-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Overutilization of antimicrobials is a known contributor to the development of antimicrobial resistance, which is a threat to global health. The goal of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) is to implement targeted interventions to reduce inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing and prevent development of antimicrobial resistance. We aim to review recently published literature focused on five categories of ASP interventions that have demonstrated success in optimizing appropriate antimicrobial use, improving patient outcomes, and fighting antimicrobial resistance. RECENT FINDINGS In the past year, ASP interventions in the published literature have focused on minimizing duration of antimicrobial therapy for infectious syndromes, implementing novel methods for performing prospective audit and feedback, utilizing microbiology laboratory or rapid diagnostic tests to expedite diagnosis, leveraging clinical decision support and electronic medical record tools, and performing penicillin allergy assessment. While the majority of studies assessing ASP interventions do not assess changes in antimicrobial resistance, outcomes demonstrating improved appropriate antibiotic use have been used as a surrogate. Successful ASPs should seek to implement and evaluate novel interventions targeting improvement in antimicrobial prescribing. Such interventions are of critical importance to prevent further growth of antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli A Cole
- Department of Pharmacy Services, University of Toledo Medical Center, 3000 Arlington Ave. MS 1013, Toledo, OH, 43614, USA.
| | - Kaitlyn R Rivard
- Department of Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue (Hb-105), Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Lisa E Dumkow
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Mercy Health Saint Mary's, 200 Jefferson SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
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Kuil SD, Hidad S, Fischer JC, Harting J, Hertogh CM, Prins JM, van Leth F, de Jong MD, Schneeberger C. Sensitivity of point-of-care testing C reactive protein and procalcitonin to diagnose urinary tract infections in Dutch nursing homes: PROGRESS study protocol. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e031269. [PMID: 31401614 PMCID: PMC6701568 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) ranks among the most common reasons for antibiotic use in nursing homes. However, diagnosing UTI in this setting is challenging because UTI often presents with non-specific symptomatology. Moreover asymptomatic bacteriuria is common in elderly, which complicates attribution of causality to detection of bacteria in urine. These diagnostic challenges contribute to overuse of antibiotics and emergence of antimicrobial resistance in nursing homes. Given the diagnostic challenges, there is a need for point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tests to support clinical rules for diagnosing UTI. Procalcitonin (PCT) and C reactive protein (CRP) are inflammatory blood markers that have been proven useful to support diagnosis and monitoring of (bacterial) respiratory tract infections and sepsis. While limited studies suggest their usefulness in supporting UTI diagnosis, their utility has not been studied in elderly populations for this purpose. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In a 24-month matched prospective study, 'PROGRESS' will assess and compare the sensitivity of rapid POC measurements of blood CRP and PCT levels to support clinical rules for diagnosing UTI in nursing home residents. The primary outcome measure is sensitivity of the POC tests to identify patients with true UTI based on the predefined definition, as derived from receiver operating curves. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study will be conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practice guidelines and the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. The study protocol is approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of Amsterdam UMC location VUmc with reference number 2017.350 and National Central Committee on Research involving Human Subjects with reference number NL62067.029.17. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NTR6467.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sacha D Kuil
- Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Soemeja Hidad
- Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johan C Fischer
- Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke Harting
- Public Health, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cees Mpm Hertogh
- General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan M Prins
- Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank van Leth
- Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Menno D de Jong
- Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Caroline Schneeberger
- Medical Microbiology, Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Chandna A, White LJ, Pongvongsa T, Mayxay M, Newton PN, Day NPJ, Lubell Y. Accounting for aetiology: can regional surveillance data alongside host biomarker-guided antibiotic therapy improve treatment of febrile illness in remote settings? Wellcome Open Res 2019; 4:1. [PMID: 31245630 PMCID: PMC6589932 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.14976.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Across Southeast Asia, declining malaria incidence poses a challenge for healthcare providers, in how best to manage the vast majority of patients with febrile illnesses who have a negative malaria test. In rural regions, where the majority of the population reside, empirical treatment guidelines derived from central urban hospitals are often of limited relevance. In these settings, health workers with limited training deliver care, often without any laboratory diagnostic support. In this paper, we model the impact of point-of-care C-reactive protein testing to inform the decision to prescribe antibiotics and regional surveillance data to inform antibiotic selection, and then simulate the subsequent impact on mortality from febrile illnesses, rooted in the real-world context of rural Savannakhet province, southern Laos. Methods: Our model simulates 100 scenarios with varying quarterly incidence of six key pathogens known to be prevalent in rural Laos. In the simulations, community health workers either prescribe antibiotics in-line with current practice as documented in health facilities in rural Laos, or with the aid of the two interventions. We provide cost-effectiveness estimates for each strategy alone and then for an integrated approach using both interventions. Results: We find that each strategy is predicted to be highly cost-effective, and that the combined approach is predicted to result in the biggest reduction in mortality (averting a predicted 510 deaths per year in rural Savannakhet, a 28% reduction compared to standard practice) and is highly cost-effective, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of just $66 per disability-adjusted life year averted. Conclusions: Substantial seasonal variation in the predicted optimal empirical antibiotic treatment for febrile illness highlights the benefits of up-to-date information on regional causes of fever. In this modelling analysis, an integrated system incorporating point-of-care host biomarker testing and regional surveillance data appears highly cost-effective, and may warrant piloting in a real-life setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Chandna
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department for Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lisa J. White
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tiengkham Pongvongsa
- Savannakhet Provincial Health Department, Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit, Savannakhet Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Mayfong Mayxay
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Savannakhet Provincial Health Department, Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit, Savannakhet Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic
- Institute of Research and Education Development, University of Health Sciences, Vientiane, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Paul N. Newton
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Savannakhet Provincial Health Department, Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit, Savannakhet Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Nicholas P. J. Day
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yoel Lubell
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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