A recent evaluation of empirical cephalosporin treatment and antibiotic resistance of changing bacterial profiles in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Dissemination, virulence characteristic, antibiotic resistance determinants of emerging linezolid and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus spp. in fish and crustacean

Enterococci are emerging nosocomial pathogens. Their widespread distribution causes them to be food contaminants. Furthermore, Enterococci can colonize various ecological niches and diffuse into the food chain via contaminated animals and foods because of their remarkable tolerance to unfavorable environmental circumstances. Due to their potential dissemination to humans, antimicrobial-resistant Enterococci in fish are a worldwide health issue. This study characterized AMR, ARGs, VAGs, gelatinase activity, and biofilm formation in Enterococcus spp. recovered from fish and seafood and evaluated potential correlations. 54 Enterococcus spp. strains(32.73 %)were isolated from 165 samples (75 Oreochromis niloticus, 30 Argyrosomus regius, and 60 Shrimp), comprising 30 Enterococcus faecalis (55.6 %) and 24 Enterococcus faecium (44.4 %) with total 32.73 % (54/165), The maximum prevalence rate of Enterococcus spp. was observed in Nile tilapia (34/54; 63 %), followed by shrimp (14/54; 25.9 %) and Argyrosomus regius (6/54; 11.1 %). The maximum prevalence rate of E. faecalis was observed in Nile tilapia (22/30; 73.3 %), followed by shrimp (8/30; 26.7 %) with significant differences. The prevalence rate of E. faecium was observed in Nile tilapia (12/24; 50 %), followed by shrimp (6/24,25 %). E. faecium is only isolated from Argyrosomus regius (6/24,25 %). Isolates exhibited high resistance against both tetracycline (90.7 %) and erythromycin(88.9 %), followed by gentamycin (77.8 %), ciprofloxacin (74.1 %), levofloxacin (72.2 %), penicillin (44.4 %), vancomycin (37 %), and linezolid (20.4 %). 50 strains (92.6 %) exhibited resistance to more than two antibiotics, 5 strains (10 %) were XDR, and the remaining 45 strains (90 %) were classified as MDR. 92.6 % of the isolates had MARindices >0.2, indicating they originated in settings with a high risk of contamination. Additionally, ten ARGs were identified, with tet(M) 92.6 %, followed by erm(B) (88.9 %), aac(6')-Ie-aph(2″)-Ia(77.8 %), tet(K) (75.9 %), gyrA (74.1 %), blaZ (48.1 %), vanA (37 %), vanB (31.5 %), optrA (20.4 %), and catA(3.7 %). Biofilm formation and gelatinase activity were observed in 85.2 %, and 61.1 % of the isolates, respectively. A total of 11 VAGs were detected, with gelE as the most prevalent (83.3 %) followed by agg(79.6 %), pil (74.1 %), both sprE and asa1 (72.2 %), hyl (70.4 %), eps(68.5 %), EF3314 (57.4 %), ace (50 %), and cylA (35.2 %) with no detection of cylB. In conclusion, the emergence of linezolid-resistant -vancomycin-resistant enterococci recovered from Egyptian fish and shrimp, suggests that fish and seafood might participate a fundamental part in the emergence of antimicrobial resistance among humans.

Patients with cirrhosis and SBP: Increase in multidrug-resistant organisms and complications

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a serious complication in patients with liver cirrhosis. In recent years, it has been postulated that the rate of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) is increasing, especially in nosocomial SBP patients. Aim of the present work was to investigate this hypothesis and its possible clinical consequences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and three culture-positive patients between 2007 and 2014 were compared with 81 patients between 2015 and 2017, to study the change of microbiological profiles and their clinical consequences. The cirrhosis patients with bacterascites requiring treatment were included as well.

RESULTS

The most prevalent Gram-negative bacteria isolated from ascites were Enterobacterales (31.6%) and in Gram-positive pathogens Staphylococci (22.8%). There was a significant increase in MDROs (22.3% ICU 40.7%, P = .048), accompanied by an increased incidence of sepsis (from 21.4% to 37.0%, P = .021), hepatorenal syndrome (from 40.8% to 58.0%, P = .007) and the need of catecholamine therapy (from 21.4% to 38.8%, P = .036). Nosocomial origin correlated with higher MDRO proportion, more complications and lower antimicrobial susceptibility rates in 12 commonly used antibiotics. MDROs were confirmed as an isolated predictor for inpatient mortality and complications in multivariable logistic regression.

CONCLUSIONS

The feeling in clinical practice that MDROs have increased in the last 11 years could be confirmed in our study in Munich, Germany. Nosocomial SBP correlated with significantly higher MDRO rates (nearly 50%) and complication rates. In our opinion, an antibiotic combination with comprehensive effect should be taken into account in nosocomial SBP patients in this region.

Evidence of Significant Ceftriaxone and Quinolone Resistance in Cirrhotics with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

OBJECTIVES

There are few studies addressing the impact of cephalosporin and quinolone resistance on hospital length of stay and mortality in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). We aim to describe the shifting epidemiology of SBP at our institution and its impact on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study of all cases of SBP from 2005 to 2015 at a transplant center. Cases were identified using hospital billing data. Patient data were confirmed using the electronic medical record. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify factors that were associated with prolonged hospital length of stay and reduced survival. Culture-positive cases (N = 56) were compared to culture-negative cases (N = 104). Subpopulation analysis of the culture-positive cases compared ceftriaxone-resistant (N = 25) to ceftriaxone-susceptible (N = 31) cases.

RESULTS

We identified 160 cases of SBP (56 culture positive and 104 culture negative; 21 nosocomial, 79 hospital associated, and 60 community acquired). Forty-five percent (N = 25 total, 13 hospital associated and 6 nosocomial) of bacterial isolates were resistant to ceftriaxone, with 37.5% (N = 21) being gram positive, including 8 methicillin-resistant staphylococcus and 6 vancomycin-resistant enterococcus. Multivariate analysis identified hospital-associated SBP, age, alcoholic cirrhosis, and MELD-Na score as variables associated with worse survival (P < 0.05), with a trend toward worse survival in culture-positive cases (P = 0.123). Only MELD-Na was associated with prolonged length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

The burden of resistant pathogens causing SBP is significant, notably in hospital-associated SBP. Culture-positive SBP may represent a higher risk group compared to culture-negative SBP.

Infection and Predictors of Outcome of Cirrhotic Patients after Emergency Care Hospital Admission

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

We aimed to explore the impact of infection diagnosed upon admission and of other clinical baseline parameters on mortality of cirrhotic patients with emergency admissions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed a prospective observational monocentric study in a tertiary care center. The association of clinical parameters and established scoring systems with short-term mortality up to 90 days was assessed by univariate and multivariable Cox regression analysis. Akaike's Information Criterion (AIC) was used for automated variable selection. Statistical interaction effects with infection were also taken into account.

RESULTS

218 patients were included. 71.2% were male, mean age was 61.1 ± 10.5 years. Mean MELD score was 16.2 ± 6.5, CLIF-consortium Acute on Chronic Liver Failure-score was 34 ± 11. At 28, 90 and 365 days, 9.6%, 26.0% and 40.6% of patients had died, respectively. In multivariable analysis, respiratory organ failure [Hazard Ratio (HR) = 0.15], albumin substitution (HR = 2.48), non-HCC-malignancy (HR = 4.93), CLIF-C-ACLF (HR = 1.10), HCC (HR = 3.70) and first episode of ascites (HR = 0.11) were significantly associated with 90-day mortality. Patients with infection had a significantly higher 90-day mortality (36.3 vs. 20.1%, p = 0.007). Cultures were positive in 32 patients with resistance to cephalosporins or quinolones in 10, to ampicillin/sulbactam in 14 and carbapenems in 6 patients.

CONCLUSION

Infection is common in cirrhotic ED admissions and increases mortality. The proportion of resistant microorganisms is high. The predictive capacity of established scoring systems in this setting was low to moderate.

An Insight into Antibiotic Resistance to Bacterial Infection in Chronic Liver Disease

BACKGROUND

End stage liver disease leads to immune dysfunction which predisposes to infection. There has been a rise in antibiotic resistant infections in these patients. There is scanty data f from India or idea regarding the same.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was undertaken to determine the type of infection acquired and the prevalence of antibiotic resistant infections in cirrhotic patients at a tertiary referral center in South India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, all consecutive cirrhotic patients hospitalized between 2011 and 2013 with a microbiologically-documented infection were enrolled. Details of previous admission and antibiotics if received were noted. In culture positive infections, the source of infection (ascites, skin, respiratory tract: sputum/endotracheal tube aspirate, pleural fluid; urine and blood) and microorganisms isolated and their antibiotic susceptibility was noted.

RESULTS

A total of 92 patients had 240 culture positive samples in the study period. Majority were Klebseilla followed by Escherichia coli and Enterococcus in nosocomial and health care associated infections. However, Enteroccocus was followed by E. coli and Klebsiella in community acquired infections. The antibiotic sensitivity pattern was analyzed for the major causative organisms such as E. coli, Klebsiella and Enterococcus. Most common resistant strains were extended spectrum beta lactamase producing enterobacteriacae (ESBL) followed by carbapenemase producing Klebsiella and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

CONCLUSION

Noscomial infection is the most common type, with Klebsiella and E. coli and there is significant rise in ESBL producing organism.

A Real-World Evaluation of Repeat Paracentesis-guided Management of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a common infection in cirrhosis associated with high mortality. More than 20% of patients with SBP do not respond to initial antibiotics. Guidelines differ in recommendations to repeat paracentesis (retap) to confirm antibiotic efficacy. We aim to evaluate the effect of retap-guided management of SBP on antibiotic escalation and 30-day transplant-free survival.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of cirrhotic patients with SBP admitted to a single transplant center from 2010 to 2014. Patients were divided into 2 groups: retap-guided management versus no retap. Prevalence of initial antibiotic treatment failure, defined as <25% decrease in ascitic polymorphonuclear cells, and factors associated with treatment failure, antibiotic escalation and 30-day transplant-free survival were evaluated.

RESULTS

Out of 210 patients, 146 (age 58, 74% male, mean model for end-stage liver disease score, 25) had retap and treatment failure was noted in 28 (22%). Gram-positive bacteria accounted for 44% of all positive cultures and third-generation cepahalosporin resistance was noted in 23%. Thirty-day transplant-free survival was 72% and 62% in retap and control groups, respectively (P=0.07). Treatment failure independently doubled the 30-day mortality rate (hazard ratio: 2.15, 1.03 to 4.50, P=0.04). After adjusting for age, model for end-stage liver disease and nosocomial infection, retap-guided management was not associated with improved survival (P=0.34).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of initial treatment failure is high (22%) in patients with SBP and doubles the 30-day mortality risk, supporting recommendations to retap all patients with SBP.

The challenges of multi-drug-resistance in hepatology

Antimicrobial resistance has become a major global public health security problem that needs coordinated approaches at regional, national and international levels. Antibiotic overuse and the failure of control measures to prevent the spread of resistant bacteria in the healthcare environment have led to an alarming increase in the number of infections caused by resistant bacteria, organisms that resist many (multi-drug and extensively drug-resistant strains), if not all (pan-drug-resistant bacteria) currently available antibiotics. While Gram-positive cocci resistance (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant enterococci) shows a heterogeneous geographical distribution, extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae have become pandemic worldwide and endemic in some parts of the world, respectively. Moreover, currently available therapeutic options for resistant bacteria are very limited, with very few new agents in development. Antimicrobial resistance is especially relevant in decompensated cirrhosis. Firstly, cirrhotic patients are highly susceptible to develop infections caused by resistant bacteria as risk factors of multiresistance concentrate in this population (mainly repeated hospitalizations and antibiotic exposure). Secondly, inappropriate empirical antibiotic schedules easily translate into increased morbidity (acute kidney injury, acute-on-chronic liver failure, septic shock) and hospital mortality in advanced cirrhosis. Therefore, hepatologists must face nowadays a complex clinical scenario that requires new empirical antibiotic strategies that may further spread resistance. Global, regional and local preventive measures should therefore be implemented to combat antimicrobial resistance in cirrhosis including the restriction of antibiotic prophylaxis to high-risk populations, investigation on non-antibiotic prophylaxis, stewardship programs on adequate antibiotic prescription and on increasing awareness of the problem among health professionals, and well-defined early de-escalation policies based on rapid microbiological diagnostic tests. Other infection control practices such as hand hygiene and barrier precautions are also important. Clinical impact and cost-effectiveness of epidemiological surveillance programs (periodic rectal and nasal swabs) should also be explored.

New antibiotic strategies in patients with cirrhosis and bacterial infection

Early diagnosis and adequate empirical antibiotic treatment of bacterial infections in advanced cirrhosis is essential to improve outcomes given the high risk of developing severe sepsis, multiple organ failure and death. β-lactams and quinolones are nowadays frequently ineffective in nosocomial and healthcare associated infections, due to the increasing prevalence of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria reported across different geographical areas. Recent antibiotic exposure also increases the risk of developing MDR bacterial infections. Initial antibiotic strategies should therefore be tailored according to the presence or absence of risk factors of MDR bacteria and to the severity of infection and should consider the local epidemiology. Empirical treatment in the population at high risk of MDR bacterial infections requires the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics (carbapenems or tigecycline) and of drugs active against specific resistant bacteria (glycopeptides, linezolid, daptomycin, amikacin, colistin). Early de-escalation policies are recommended to prevent the spread of MDR bacteria in cirrhosis.

PREVALENCE OF BACTERIAL RESISTANCE IN HOSPITALIZED CIRRHOTIC PATIENTS IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL: A NEW CHALLENGE

BACKGROUND & AIMS

An increased frequency of infections by multiresistant bacteria has been described in hospitalized patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bacterial resistance profile in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS

This is a retrospective observational study. We assessed the antimicrobial susceptibility of 5,839 bacterial isolates from patients with and without cirrhosis. Regarding the multidrug resistance, we evaluated 4,505 bacterial isolates from 2,180 patients.

RESULTS

Two hundred and fifty-one patients had cirrhosis (mean age 57.6 ± 11 years; 61.8% were male, 47.8% of cases associated with hepatitis C virus). Of the isolates of patients with and without cirrhosis, 174/464 (37.5%) and 1,783/4,041 (44.1%) were multiresistant, respectively (p = 0.007). E. coli was the most common multiresistant bacteria in both groups. Approximately 20% of E. coli and Klebsiella sp. isolates were ESBL-producers and 44% of S. aureus isolates were methicillin-resistant in cirrhotic patients. In cirrhotic patients admitted to the emergency department, hospital ward, and intensive care unit, 28.3%, 50% and 40% had multiresistant isolates, respectively. In patients with and without cirrhosis, 36.2% and 33.5% of isolates were resistant to third-generation cephalosporins, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The empirical treatment of infections in hospitalized patients using broad-spectrum antibiotics should consider the observed pattern of bacterial resistance.

Extensively drug-resistant bacteria are an independent predictive factor of mortality in 130 patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or spontaneous bacteremia

AIM: To evaluate the epidemiology and outcomes of culture-positive spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) and spontaneous bacteremia (SB) in decompensated cirrhosis.

METHODS: We prospectively collected clinical, laboratory characteristics, type of administered antibiotic, susceptibility and resistance of bacteria to antibiotics in one hundred thirty cases (68.5% males) with positive ascitic fluid and/or blood cultures during the period from January 1, 2012 to May 30, 2014. All patients with SBP had polymorphonuclear cell count in ascitic fluid > 250/mm³. In patients with SB a thorough study did not reveal any other cause of bacteremia. The patients were followed-up for a 30-d period following diagnosis of the infection. The final outcome of the patients was recorded in the end of follow-up and comparison among 3 groups of patients according to the pattern of drug resistance was performed.

RESULTS: Gram-positive-cocci (GPC) were found in half of the cases. The most prevalent organisms in a descending order were Escherichia coli (33), Enterococcus spp (30), Streptococcus spp (25), Klebsiella pneumonia (16), S. aureus (8), Pseudomanas aeruginosa (5), other Gram-negative-bacteria (GNB) (11) and anaerobes (2). Overall, 20.8% of isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR) and 10% extensively drug-resistant (XDR). Health-care-associated (HCA) and/or nosocomial infections were present in 100% of MDR/XDR and in 65.5% of non-DR cases. Meropenem was the empirically prescribed antibiotic in HCA/nosocomial infections showing a drug-resistance rate of 30.7% while third generation cephalosporins of 43.8%. Meropenem was ineffective on both XDR bacteria and Enterococcus faecium (E. faecium). All but one XDR were susceptible to colistin while all GPC (including E. faecium) and the 86% of GNB to tigecycline. Overall 30-d mortality was 37.7% (69.2% for XDR and 34.2% for the rest of the patients) (log rank, P = 0.015). In multivariate analysis, factors adversely affecting outcome included XDR infection (HR = 2.263, 95%CI: 1.005-5.095, P = 0.049), creatinine (HR = 1.125, 95%CI: 1.024-1.236, P = 0.015) and INR (HR =1.553, 95%CI: 1.106-2.180, P = 0.011).

CONCLUSION: XDR bacteria are an independent life-threatening factor in SBP/SB. Strategies aiming at restricting antibiotic overuse and rapid identification of the responsible bacteria could help improve survival.

Enteroccocus pallens as a potential novel human pathogen: three cases of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Introduction:

Enterococcus pallens is one of the four yellow-pigmented members of the genus Enterococcus. To date, a single report of E. pallens isolated from a human sample has been published.

Case presentation:

We report three cases of E. pallens spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in patients with liver cirrhosis that all occurred in Quebec, Canada. Ascitic fluid analysis revealed the presence of E. pallens in culture. Identification was made by classical biochemical testing and MALDI-TOF MS, as well as 16S rRNA and elongation factor (tuf) gene sequencing. Two of the three patients recovered after antimicrobial treatment.

Conclusion:

This report identifies E. pallens as a novel human pathogen that appears to possess particular but as-yet unidentified virulence factors that favour the development of peritoneal fluid infections, as previously reported for other Enterococcus species. Clinical microbiologist should be aware of this micro-organism which can be identified by phenotypic and molecular methods.

Review article: spontaneous bacterial peritonitis--bacteriology, diagnosis, treatment, risk factors and prevention

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a severe and often fatal infection in patients with cirrhosis and ascites.

AIM

To review the known and changing bacteriology, risk factors, ascitic fluid interpretation, steps in performing paracentesis, treatment, prophylaxis and evolving perspectives related to SBP.

METHODS

Information was obtained from reviewing medical literature accessible on PubMed Central. The search term 'spontaneous bacterial peritonitis' was cross-referenced with 'bacteria', 'risk factors', 'ascites', 'paracentesis', 'ascitic fluid analysis', 'diagnosis', 'treatment', 'antibiotics', 'prophylaxis', 'liver transplantation' and 'nutrition'.

RESULTS

Gram-positive cocci (GPC) such as Staphylococcus, Enterococcus as well as multi-resistant bacteria have become common pathogens and have changed the conventional approach to treatment of SBP. Health care-associated and nosocomial SBP infections should prompt greater vigilance and consideration for alternative antibiotic coverage. Acid suppressive and beta-adrenergic antagonist therapies are strongly associated with SBP in at-risk individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Third-generation, broad-spectrum cephalosporins remain a good initial choice for SBP treatment. Levofloxacin is an acceptable alternative for patients not receiving long-term flouroquinolone prophylaxis or for those with a penicillin allergy. For uncomplicated SBP, early oral switch therapy is reasonable. Alternative antibiotics such as pipercillin-tazobactam should be considered for patients with nosocomial SBP or for patients who fail to improve on traditional antibiotic regimens. Selective albumin supplementation remains an important adjunct in SBP treatment. Withholding acid suppressive medication deserves strong consideration, and discontinuing beta-adrenergic antagonist therapy in patients with end-stage liver disease and resistant ascites is standard care. Liver transplant evaluation should be undertaken for patients who develop SBP barring contraindications.

Multiresistant bacterial infections in liver cirrhosis: Clinical impact and new empirical antibiotic treatment policies

Recently, important changes have been reported regarding the epidemiology of bacterial infections in liver cirrhosis. There is an emergence of multiresistant bacteria in many European countries and also worldwide, including the United States and South Korea. The classic empirical antibiotic treatment (third-generation cephalosporins, e.g., ceftriaxone, cefotaxime or amoxicillin-clavulanic acid) is still effective in infections acquired in the community, but its failure rate in hospital acquired infections and in some health-care associated infections is high enough to ban its use in these settings. The current editorial focuses on the different epidemiology of bacterial infections in cirrhosis across countries and on its therapeutic implications.

Bacterial infections in cirrhosis: a position statement based on the EASL Special Conference 2013

Bacterial infections are very common and represent one of the most important reasons of progression of liver failure, development of liver-related complications, and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. In fact, bacterial infections may be a triggering factor for the occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding, hypervolemic hyponatremia, hepatic encephalopathy, kidney failure, and development of acute-on-chronic liver failure. Moreover, infections are a very common cause of repeated hospitalizations, impaired health-related quality of life, and increased healthcare costs in cirrhosis. Bacterial infections develop as a consequence of immune dysfunction that occurs progressively during the course of cirrhosis. In a significant proportion of patients, infections are caused by gram-negative bacteria from intestinal origin, yet gram-positive bacteria are a frequent cause of infection, particularly in hospitalized patients. In recent years, infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria are becoming an important clinical problem in many countries. The reduction of the negative clinical impact of infections in patients with cirrhosis may be achieved by a combination of prophylactic measures, such as administration of antibiotics, to reduce the occurrence of infections in high-risk groups together with early identification and management of infection once it has developed. Investigation on the mechanisms of altered gut microflora, translocation of bacteria, and immune dysfunction may help develop more effective and safe methods of prevention compared to those that are currently available. Moreover, research on biomarkers of early infection may be useful in early diagnosis and treatment of infections. The current manuscript reports an in-depth review and a position statement on bacterial infections in cirrhosis.

Impact of rifaximin on the frequency and characteristics of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites

Background

Rifaximin is a non-absorbable antibiotic used to prevent relapses of hepatic encephalopathy which may also be a candidate for prophylaxis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP).

Aim

To detect the impact of rifaximin on the occurrence and characteristics of SBP.

Methods

We prospectively studied all hospitalized patients that underwent a diagnostic paracentesis in our department from March 2012 to April 2013 for SBP and recorded all clinical data including type of SBP prophylaxis, prior use of rifaximin, concomitant complications of cirrhosis, as well as laboratory results and bacteriological findings. Patients were divided into the following three groups: no antibiotic prophylaxis, prophylaxis with rifaximin or with systemically absorbed antibiotic prophylaxis.

Results

Our study cohort comprised 152 patients with advanced liver cirrhosis, 32 of whom developed SBP during the study period. As expected, our study groups differed regarding a history of hepatic encephalopathy and SBP before inclusion into the study. None of the 17 patients on systemic antibiotic prophylaxis developed SBP while 8/27 patients on rifaximin and 24/108 without prophylaxis had SBP (p = 0.02 and p = 0.04 versus systemic antibiotics, respectively). In general, episodes of SBP were similar for patients treated with rifaximin and those without any prophylaxis. However, Escherichia coli and enterococci were dominant in the ascites of patients without any prophylaxis, while mostly klebsiella species were recovered from the ascites samples in the rifaximin group.

Conclusion

Rifaximin pretreatment did not lead to a reduction of SBP occurrence in hospitalized patients with advanced liver disease. However, the bacterial species causing SBP were changed by rifaximin.

Patterns of antimicrobial resistance in the causative organisms of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: a single centre, six-year experience of 1981 samples

Background/Aims. Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with cirrhosis. This study aims to determine the microbial agents of SBP and the pattern of antibiotic resistance, in a large number of ascitic samples. Methodology. In a cross-sectional, single center, hospital based study, 1981 consecutive ascitic fluid samples were recruited from 2005 to 2011. Samples were dichotomized into three-year periods, in order to assess the trend of resistance to the first-line empirical antibiotics. Results. SBP was found in 482 (24.33%) of samples, of which 314 (65.15%) were culture positive. The most prevalent isolated pathogen was E. coli (33.8%), followed by staphylococcus aureus (8.9%) and Enterococcus (8.6%). No significant changes in the proportion of gram-negative/gram-positive infections occurred during this period. A percentage of resistant strains to cefotaxime (62.5%, 85.7%), ceftazidim (73%, 82.1%), ciprofloxacin (30, 59.8%), ofloxacin (36.8%, 50%), and oxacilin (35%, 51.6%) were significantly increased. E. coli was most sensitive to imipenem, piperacillin-tazobactam, amikacin, ceftizoxime, and gentamicin. Conclusions. The microbial aetiology of SBP remains relatively constant. However, the resistance rate especially to the first-line recommended antibiotics was significantly increased. This pattern must be watched closely and taken into account in empirical antibiotic treatment.

Spontaneous ascitic fluid infection in liver cirrhosis: bacteriological profile and response to antibiotic therapy

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous ascitic fluid infection (SAI) is common in cirrhotic patients leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Third-generation cephalosporins are currently recommended as first-line therapy. We conducted a prospective study to determine bacterial etiology, susceptibility patterns, and clinical epidemiology including 1-month mortality of SAIs among patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

Records of 600 patients with suspected SAI over a 4-year period were analyzed. Empirical cefotaxime/ceftriaxone was initiated in patients who had a neutrophil count >250/mm(3). Treatment failure was defined by absence of clinical improvement and/or significant decrease in neutrophil count of ascites (<25 % of base line value) by 72 h of therapy.

RESULTS

Seventy patients (11.6 %) had SAI, including 40 (57.1 %) culture-negative neutrocytic ascites (CNNA), 25 (35.8 %) spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), and five (7 %) monomicrobial non-neutrocytic bacterascites (MNB). Gram-negative bacilli (Klebsiella and E. coli) were the commonest organisms. The overall response rate to ceftriaxone was 62.8 % (44/70). Among culture-positive patients (SBP and MNB), sensitivity rates to ceftriaxone was 50 %, while it was 53.3 % for quinolones, 70 % for piperacillin-tazobactam, and 93.3 % for cefoperazone-sulbactam combination. Thirty-day mortality was lower for CNNA compared to SBP (20 % vs. 40 %, p < 0.001) and for patients with response compared to no response to first antibiotic (11.3 % vs. 53.8 %, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The response of SAI to third-generation cephalosporins was low at our center. Cefoperazone-sulbactam could be a better alternative choice.

Update on the management of cirrhosis - focus on cost-effective preventative strategies

Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease stage that encompasses a variety of etiologies resulting in liver damage. This damage may induce secondary complications such as portal hypertension, esophageal variceal bleeding, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatic encephalopathy. Screening for and management of these complications incurs substantial health care costs; thus, determining the most economical and beneficial treatment strategies is essential. This article reviews the economic impact of a variety of prophylactic and treatment regimens employed for cirrhosis-related complications. Prophylactic use of β-adrenergic blockers for portal hypertension and variceal bleeding appears to be cost-effective, but the most economical regimen for treatment of initial bleeding is unclear given that cost comparisons of pharmacologic and surgical regimens are lacking. In contrast, prophylaxis for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis cannot be recommended. Standard therapy for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis includes antibiotics, and the overall economic impact of these medications depends largely on their direct cost. However, the potential development of bacterial antibiotic resistance and resulting clinical failure should also be considered. Nonabsorbable disaccharides are standard therapies for hepatic encephalopathy; however, given their questionable efficacy, the nonsystemic antibiotic rifaximin may be a more cost-effective, long-term treatment for hepatic encephalopathy, despite its increased direct cost, because of its demonstrated efficacy and prevention of hospitalization. Further studies evaluating the cost burden of cirrhosis and cirrhosis-related complications, including screening costs, the cost of treatment and maintenance therapy, conveyance to liver transplantation, liver transplantation success, and health-related quality of life after transplantation, are essential for evaluation of the economic burden of hepatic encephalopathy and all cirrhosis-related complications.

The new epidemiology of nosocomial bacterial infections in cirrhosis: therapeutical implications

Cirrhotic patients are at increased risk of developing infection, sepsis and death. Enterobacteriaceae and nonenterococcal streptococci are the main bacteria responsible for spontaneous and urinary infections in this population. Prompt and appropriate treatment is basic in the management of cirrhotic patients with infection. Third-generation cephalosporins continue to be the gold-standard antibiotic treatment of the majority of infections acquired in the community because responsible strains are usually susceptible to β-lactams. By contrary, nosocomial infections are nowadays frequently caused by multiresistant bacteria (extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and vancomycin-resistant enterococci among others) that are nonsusceptible to the main antibiotics. Treatment of these infections requires the use of broader spectrum antibiotics (carbapenems) or of antibiotics that are active against specific resistant bacteria (glycopeptides, linezolid, daptomycin, amikacin and colistin). Empirical antibiotic schedules must be adapted to the local epidemiological pattern of antibiotic resistance. Careful restriction of antibiotic prophylaxis to the high-risk population is also mandatory to reduce the spread of multiresistant bacteria in cirrhosis.

Management of bacterial infections in cirrhosis

Bacterial infections are very frequent in advanced cirrhosis and become the first cause of death of these patients. Despite numerous experimental data and significant advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of sepsis in cirrhosis, the outcome remains poor. Classical diagnostic parameters such as C-reactive protein and SIRS criteria have less diagnostic capacity in the cirrhotic population, often delaying the diagnosis and the management of bacterial infection. Prompt and appropriate empirical antibiotic treatment of infection and early resuscitation of patients with severe sepsis or septic shock are essential in determining patient's outcome. A strategy of careful restriction of prophylactic antibiotics to the high-risk populations could reduce the spread of multidrug resistant bacteria. This review is focused on the currently recommended diagnostic, therapeutic and prophylactic strategies for bacterial infections in the cirrhotic population.

Prevalence and risk factors of infections by multiresistant bacteria in cirrhosis: a prospective study

Epidemiology, risk factors, and clinical effect of infections by multiresistant bacteria in cirrhosis are poorly known. This work was a prospective evaluation in two series of cirrhotic patients admitted with infection or developing infection during hospitalization. The first series was studied between 2005 and 2007 (507 bacterial infections in 223 patients) and the second between 2010 and 2011 (162 bacterial infections in 110 patients). In the first series, 32% of infections were community acquired (CA), 32% healthcare associated (HCA), and 36% nosocomial. Multiresistant bacteria (92 infections; 18%) were isolated in 4%, 14%, and 35% of these infections, respectively (P < 0.001). Extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E; n = 43) was the main multiresistant organism identified, followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 17), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (n = 14), and Enterococcus faecium (n = 14). The efficacy of currently recommended empirical antibiotic therapy was very low in nosocomial infections (40%), compared to HCA and CA episodes (73% and 83%, respectively; P < 0.0001), particularly in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, urinary tract infection, and pneumonia (26%, 29%, and 44%, respectively). Septic shock (26% versus 10%; P < 0.0001) and mortality rate (25% versus 12%; P = 0.001) were significantly higher in infections caused by multiresistant strains. Nosocomial origin of infection (hazard ratio [HR], 4.43), long-term norfloxacin prophylaxis (HR, 2.69), recent infection by multiresistant bacteria (HR, 2.45), and recent use of β-lactams (HR, 2.39) were independently associated with the development of multiresistant infections. Results in the second series were similar to those observed in the first series.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiresistant bacteria, especially ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, are frequently isolated in nosocomial and, to a lesser extent, HCA infections in cirrhosis, rendering third-generation cephalosporins clinically ineffective. New antibiotic strategies tailored according to the local epidemiological patterns are needed for the empirical treatment of nosocomial infections in cirrhosis.

Immune dysfunction and infections in patients with cirrhosis

Patients with cirrhosis are immunocompromised and susceptible to infections. Although detection and treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) have improved, overall survival rates have not increased greatly in recent decades-infection still increases mortality 4-fold among patients with cirrhosis. Hospitalized patients with cirrhosis have the highest risk of developing infections, especially patients with gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage. Bacterial infections occur in 32% to 34% of patients with cirrhosis who are admitted to the hospital and 45% of patients with GI hemorrhage. These rates are much higher than the overall rate of infection in hospitalized patients (5%-7%). The most common are SBP (25% of infections), urinary tract infection (20%), and pneumonia (15%). Bacterial overgrowth and translocation from the GI tract are important steps in the pathogenesis of SBP and bacteremia-these processes increase levels of endotoxins and cytokines that induce the inflammatory response and can lead to septic shock, multiorgan dysfunction, and death. A number of other bacterial and fungal pathogens are more common and virulent in patients with cirrhosis than in the overall population. We review the pathogenesis of infections in these patients, along with diagnostic and management strategies.