Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection

Diagnosis of central venous catheter related infection in adult patients

Intravascular catheters are one of the main causes of bacteraemia and septicaemia in hospitalised patients and continue to be associated with a significant morbidity and mortality. Two main types of infections occur, they can be either localised at the catheter insertion site of systemic with a septicaemia. The clinical parameters related to these infections are presented. The laboratory diagnosis of these infections is also extensively reviewed and recommendations are made as to the most appropriate diagnostic method to be used.

Infectious complications of venous access devices

Infection represents one of the most common venous access device (VAD)-related complications requiring catheter removal. Recognition of such complications is essential to provide appropriate therapy in the setting of active infection. This article reviews the definition of various types of infections, as well as reviewing the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of VAD-related infections.