Oral ciprofloxacin after a short course of intravenous ciprofloxacin in the treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: results of a multicenter, randomized study

Response-Guided Therapy With Cefotaxime, Ceftriaxone, or Ciprofloxacin for Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis: A Randomized Trial: A Validation Study of 2021 AASLD Practice Guidance for SBP

INTRODUCTION

For the treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, and ciprofloxacin were used as first-line agents. However, considering the increasing rate of antibiotic resistance, it is unclear which of these drugs can be initially recommended. This study aimed to compare the current efficacy of the 3 antibiotics, namely cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, and ciprofloxacin, for the treatment of SBP in patients with cirrhosis with ascites, when guided by therapeutic responses.

METHODS

This study was a multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial. The inclusion criteria were 16- to 75-year-old patients with liver cirrhosis with ascites, having polymorphonuclear cell count of >250/mm 3 . We performed a follow-up paracentesis at 48 hours to decide continuing or changing the assigned antibiotics and then assessed the resolution rates at 120 and 168 hours of treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 261 patients with cirrhosis who developed SBP were enrolled. Most of the patients were diagnosed as those with SBP within 48 hours of admission. The resolution rates at 120 hours, which is the primary endpoint, were 67.8%, 77.0%, and 73.6% in the cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, and ciprofloxacin groups, respectively ( P = 0.388), by intension-to-treat analysis. The 1-month mortality was similar among the groups ( P = 0.770). The model for end-stage liver disease score and the SBP resolution were significant factors for survival.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy of empirical antibiotics, such as cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, and ciprofloxacin, against SBP was not significantly different. In addition, these antibiotics administered based on response-guided therapy were still efficacious as initial treatment for SBP, especially in those with community-acquired infections.

Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis—A Literature Review

Background: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is defined as a bacterial infection of the ascitic fluid without a surgically treatable intra-abdominal infection source. SBP is a common, severe complication in cirrhosis patients with ascites, and if left untreated, in-hospital mortality may exceed 90%. However, the incidence of SBP has been lowered to approx. 20% through early diagnosis and antibiotic therapy. Clinical awareness, prompt diagnosis, and immediate treatment are advised when caring for these patients to reduce mortality and morbidity. Aim: To discuss important issues comprising types of SBP, pathogenesis, bacteriology, including the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms, prompt diagnosis, risk factors, prognosis, treatment strategies, as well as recurrence prevention through antibiotic prophylaxis until liver transplantation and future trends in treating and preventing SBP in detail. Methods: This article is a literature review and appraisal of guidelines, randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and other review articles found on PubMed from between 1977 and 2022. Results: There are three types of SBP. Bacterial translocation from GI tract is the most common source of SBP. Therefore, two thirds of SBP cases were caused by Gram-negative bacilli, of which Escherichia coli is the most frequently isolated pathogen. However, a trend of Gram-positive cocci associated SBP has been demonstrated in recent years, possibly related to more invasive procedures and long-term quinolone prophylaxis. A diagnostic paracentesis should be performed in all patients with cirrhosis and ascites who require emergency room care or hospitalization, who demonstrate or report consistent signs/symptoms in order to confirm evidence of SBP. Distinguishing SBP from secondary bacterial peritonitis is essential because the conditions require different therapeutic strategies. The standard treatment for SBP is prompt broad-spectrum antibiotic administration and should be tailored according to community-acquired SBP, healthcare-associated or nosocomial SBP infections and local resistance profile. Albumin supplementation, especially in patients with renal impairment, is also beneficial. Selective intestinal decontamination is associated with a reduced risk of bacterial infection and mortality in high-risk group. Conclusions: The standard treatment for SBP is prompt broad-spectrum antibiotic administration and should be tailored according to community-acquired SBP, healthcare-associated or nosocomial SBP infections and local resistance profile. Since the one-year overall mortality rates for SBP range from 53.9 to 78%, liver transplantation should be seriously considered for SBP survivors who are good candidates for transplantation. Further development of non-antibiotic strategies based on pathogenic mechanisms are also urgently needed.

Antibiotics and Liver Cirrhosis: What the Physicians Need to Know

The liver is the primary site of drug metabolism, which can be altered by a variety of diseases affecting the liver parenchyma, especially in patients with liver cirrhosis. The use of antibiotics in patients with cirrhosis is usually a matter of concern for physicians, given the lack of practical knowledge for drug choice and eventual dose adjustments in several clinical scenarios. The aim of the current narrative review is to report, as broadly as possible, basic, and practical knowledge that any physician should have when approaching a patient with liver cirrhosis and an ongoing infection to efficiently choose the best antibiotic therapy.

Advances in the pharmacological management of bacterial peritonitis

Introduction: Bacterial peritonitis is an infection with high mortality if not treated immediately. In the absence of an intraabdominal source of infection, bacterial peritonitis may arise in patients with liver cirrhosis, in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) for end-stage renal disease or in patients with tuberculosis. In patients with cirrhosis, bacterial peritonitis may trigger acute on chronic liver failure with substantial mortality despite optimal treatment. In patients on PD, peritonitis may make continuation of PD impossible, necessitating the switch to hemodialysis.Areas covered: Recovery from peritonitis and prevention of complications depend on timely pharmacological management. Challenges are the broad microbiological spectrum with growing rates of antimicrobial resistance, the underlying chronic liver or kidney failure and high rates of relapse. The authors provide a review of predisposing conditions, diagnosis, and prevention of bacterial peritonitis with a particular focus on the pharmacological management.Expert opinion: Diagnosis of the type of bacterial peritonitis is essential to pharmacological management. In patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, broad-spectrum antibiotics should be given intravenously in conjunction with albumin. In patients on PD, antibiotic therapy should be preferably applied intraperitoneally with empirical coverage of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Secondary peritonitis usually requires surgical or interventional treatment.

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis caused by Gram-negative bacteria: an update of epidemiology and antimicrobial treatments

Introduction: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a main infectious complication in end-stage liver disease (ESLD) patients. The increasing trend of bacterial resistance in ESLD patients with SBP has been associated with low treatment efficacy of traditional therapy. Cephalosporin use has been restricted to community-acquired infections and in areas/health care settings with low rates of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. To date, several changes are necessary with regard to empiric therapy recommendations in areas/health care settings with high rates of MDR bacteria. Areas covered: An overview of the epidemiology and antimicrobial treatments of SBP caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Expert opinion: Broad-spectrum antibiotics have been recommended as empiric therapy for suspected SBP in areas/health care settings with high rates of MDR bacteria and secondary treatment, with newer antibiotics, for SBP caused by MDR-Gram-negative bacteria (i.e. new beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations, cefiderocol, plazomicin, and eravacycline) either alone or in combination.

[Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis]

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is defined as bacterial infections that occur in patients with cirrhosis and ascites without any significant intraperitoneal infection, accounting for approximately 10-30% of bacterial infections in hospitalized patients. SBP develops in patients with liver cirrhosis because bacterial translocations are increased by changes in the intestinal bacteria and mucosal barriers. In addition, the decreased host immune response cannot remove the bacteria and their products. The most common cause of SBP is Gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species, and infections by Gram-positive bacteria are increasing. SBP is diagnosed by the presence of >250 polymorphonuclear leukocyte/mm³ in ascites after paracentesis. If SBP is diagnosed, empirical antibiotic therapy should be started immediately. Empirical antibiotic treatment should distinguish between community acquired infections and nosocomial infections. Cirrhotic patients with gastrointestinal bleeding or low ascitic protein concentrations should consider primary prevention and those who recover from SBP should consider secondary prevention. This review describes the pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SBP.

Follow-up Creatinine Level Is an Important Predictive Factor of In-hospital Mortality in Cirrhotic Patients with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is one of the severe complications of liver cirrhosis. Early detection of high-risk patients is essential for prognostic improvement. The aim of this study is to investigate the predictive factors related to in-hospital mortality in patients with SBP.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 233 SBP patients (181 males, 52 females) who were admitted to four tertiary referral hospitals between August 2002 and February 2013. The patients' laboratory and radiologic data were obtained from medical records. The Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score and model for end-stage liver disease sodium model (MELD-Na) scores were calculated using the laboratory data recorded at the time of the SBP episode.

RESULTS

The causes of liver cirrhosis were hepatitis B (44.6%), alcohol (43.8%), hepatitis C (6.0%), and cryptogenic cirrhosis (5.6%). The mean MELD-Na and CTP scores were 27.1 and 10.7, respectively. Thirty-one of the patients (13.3%) died from SBP in hospital. Multivariate analysis revealed that maximum creatinine level during treatment was a statistically significant factor for in-hospital mortality (P = 0.005). The prognostic accuracy of the maximum creatinine level during treatment was 78.0% (P < 0.001). The optimal cutoff point for the maximum serum creatinine was 2 mg/dL (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The follow-up creatinine level during treatment is an important predictive factor of in-hospital mortality in cirrhotic patients with SBP. Patients with SBP and a serum creatinine level during treatment of ≥ 2.0 mg/dL might have a high risk of in-hospital mortality.

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.

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: The clinical challenge of a leaky gut and a cirrhotic liver

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a frequent, life-threatening bacterial infection in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites. Portal hypertension leads to increased bacterial translocation from the intestine. Failure to eliminate invading pathogens due to immune defects associated with advanced liver disease on the background of genetic predisposition may result in SBP. The efficacy of antibiotic treatment and prophylaxis has declined due to the spread of multi-resistant bacteria. Patients with nosocomial SBP and with prior antibiotic treatment are at a particularly high risk for infection with resistant bacteria. Therefore, it is important to adapt empirical treatment to these risk factors and to the local resistance profile. Rifaximin, an oral, non-absorbable antibiotic, has been proposed to prevent SBP, but may be useful only in a subset of patients. Since novel antibiotic classes are lacking, we have to develop prophylactic strategies which do not induce bacterial resistance. Farnesoid X receptor agonists may be a candidate, but so far, clinical studies are not available. New diagnostic tests which can be carried out quickly at the patient’s site and provide additional prognostic information would be helpful. Furthermore, we need tools to predict antibiotic resistance in order to tailor first-line antibiotic treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis to the individual patient and to reduce mortality.

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.

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

The aim of this research is to evaluate the recent changes in microorganisms causing spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients, antibiotic resistance, and response to empirical cephalosporin therapy. A total of 218 patients with ascites secondary to cirrhosis were enrolled. Parenteral cefotaxime or cefepime was given to patients who had a neutrophil count of 250/mm(3) or more or a positive bacterial culture of ascitic fluid. Antibiotic failure was defined by an absence of clinical improvement and an insufficient decrease in neutrophil count of ascites (<25% of initial value) by the third day of therapy. Of all the patients, 44.6% had culture-negative neutrocytic ascites, 24.8% had spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and 10.1% had monomicrobial nonneutrocytic bacterascites. Growth in culture was observed in 76 patients (34.9%). The two most common isolated bacteria were Escherichia coli (33.8%) and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS; 19.7%). The two cephalosporins were effective against E. coli (82%) and but not against CoNS (44%), while levofloxacin showed reasonable activity against both E. coli (71%) and CoNS (90%) in vitro. We confirmed a recent increased incidence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis caused by Gram-positive bacteria. Levofloxacin seems to be a good alternative treatment for patients with uncomplicated spontaneous ascites infections.

Severe sepsis in cirrhosis

Sepsis is physiologically viewed as a proinflammatory and procoagulant response to invading pathogens. There are three recognized stages in the inflammatory response with progressively increased risk of end-organ failure and death: sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock. Patients with cirrhosis are prone to develop sepsis, sepsis-induced organ failure, and death. There is evidence that in cirrhosis, sepsis is accompanied by a markedly imbalanced cytokine response ("cytokine storm"), which converts responses that are normally beneficial for fighting infections into excessive, damaging inflammation. Molecular mechanisms for this excessive proinflammatory response are poorly understood. In patients with cirrhosis and severe sepsis, high production of proinflammatory cytokines seems to play a role in the worsening of liver function and the development of organ/system failures such as shock, renal failure, acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome, coagulopathy, or hepatic encephalopathy. In addition, these patients may have sepsis-induced hyperglycemia, defective arginine-vasopressin secretion, adrenal insufficiency, or compartmental syndrome. In patients with cirrhosis and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), early use of antibiotics and intravenous albumin administration decreases the risk for developing renal failure and improves survival. There are no randomized studies that have been specifically performed in patients with cirrhosis and severe sepsis to evaluate treatments that have been shown to improve outcome in patients without cirrhosis who have severe sepsis or septic shock. These treatments include recombinant human activated C protein and protective-ventilation strategy for respiratory failure. Other treatments should be evaluated in the cirrhotic population with severe sepsis including the early use of antibiotics in "non-SBP" infections, vasopressor therapy, hydrocortisone, renal-replacement therapy and liver support systems, and selective decontamination of the digestive tract or oropharynx.

Antibiotics for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is a complication of cirrhotic ascites that occurs in the absence of any intra-abdominal, surgically treatable source of infection. Antibiotic therapy is indicated and should be initiated as soon as possible to avoid severe complications that may lead to death. It has been proposed that empirical treatment should cover gram-negative enteric bacteria and gram-positive cocci, responsible for up to 90% of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis cases.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to evaluate the beneficial and harmful effects of different types and modes of antibiotic therapy in the treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We performed electronic searches in The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register (July 2008), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) in The Cochrane Library (Issue 3, 2008), MEDLINE (1950 to July 2008), EMBASE (1980 to July 2008), and Science Citation Index EXPANDED (1945 to July 2008). In addition, we handsearched the references of all identified studies and contacted the first author of each included trial.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised studies comparing different types of antibiotics for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were independently extracted from the trials by at least two authors. Peto odds ratios or average differences, with their 95% confidence intervals, were estimated.

MAIN RESULTS

This systematic review attempted to summarise evidence from randomised clinical trials on the treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Thirteen studies were included; each one of them compared different antibiotics in their experimental and control groups. No meta-analyses could be performed, though data on the main outcomes were collected and analysed separately for each included trial. Currently, the evidence showing that lower dosage or short-term treatment with third generation cephalosporins is as effective as higher dosage or long-term treatment is weak. Oral quinolones could be considered an option for those with less severe manifestations of the disease.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review provides no clear evidence for the treatment of cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. In practice, third generation cephalosporins have already been established as the standard treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and it is clear, that empirical antibiotic therapy should be provided in any case. However, until large, well-conducted trials provide more information, practice will remain based on impression, not evidence.

[Bacterial infections in liver cirrhosis]

Bacterial infections are well described complications of cirrhosis that greatly increase mortality rates. Two factors play important roles in the development of bacterial infections in these patients: the severity of liver disease and gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The most common infections are spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, urinary tract infections, pneumonia and sepsis. Gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria are equal causative organisms. For primary prophylaxis, short-term antibiotic treatment (oral norfloxacin or ciprofloxacin) is indicated in cirrhotic patients (with or without ascites) admitted with gastrointestinal haemorrhage (variceal or non-variceal). Administration of norfloxacin is advisable for hospitalized patients with low ascitic protein even without gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The first choice in empirical treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is the iv. III. generation cephalosporin; which can be switched for a targeted antibiotic regime based on the result of the culture. The duration of therapy is 5-8 days. Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and fluoroquinolones--patients not on prior quinolone prophylaxis--were shown to be as effective and safe as cefotaxime. In patients with evidence of improvement, iv. antibiotics can be switched safely to oral antibiotics after 2 days. In case of renal dysfunction, iv albumin should also be administered. Long-term antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended in patients who have recovered from an episode of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (secondary prevention). For "selective intestinal decontamination", poorly absorbed oral norfloxacin is the preferred schedule. Oral ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin (added gram positive spectrum) all the more are reasonable alternatives. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole is only for patients who are intolerant to quinolones. Prophylaxis is indefinite until disappearance of ascites, transplant or death. Long-term prophylaxis is currently not recommended for patients without previous spontaneous bacterial peritonitis episode, not even when refractory ascites or low ascites protein content is present.

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: a therapeutic update

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is one of the main infectious complications of cirrhosis and occurs in 8-30% of hospitalized patients with ascites. SBP is characterized by infection of the ascitic fluid (AF) in the absence of any primary focus of intra-abdominal infection. The main route by which the AF becomes infected is the hematogenous route. The pathogenic mechanism by which infection develops is bacterial translocation from the intestinal flora to the mesenteric lymph nodes and from there to the bloodstream. Contributing factors are an increased growth of Gram-negative aerobic bacilli in the jejunum, changes in the intestinal barrier and in addition factors which could reduce the local flow of blood. For clinical diagnosis, patients with SBP may present signs of peritoneal irritation and pain, together with changes in gastrointestinal motility, sometimes with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or ileus. Many patients, however, may not present any symptoms or signs as a result of the presence of SBP. Diagnostic paracentesis of the AF must be performed for every patient with cirrhosis, hospitalized with ascites. Laboratory diagnosis of SBP is carried out by polymorphonuclear count in the AF, together with a positive culture from the AF, which is characteristically monomicrobial. Escherichia coli has been the main bacterium isolated from AF as well as other Gram-negative bacteria from the Enterobacteriaceae family and Streptococcus genus. A more rapid diagnosis of SBP can be obtained via the use of leukocyte esterase, which is present in biological fluids and reacts with a component of the dipstick, changing its color. During the acute phase of SBP, antibiotics should be initiated promptly once the clinical and laboratory diagnosis of SBP has been made, before the result of AF culture. Cefotaxime or other third-generation cephalosporins have been considered the first-choice empirical antibiotics in the treatment of cirrhotic patients with SBP, and is efficacious in approximately 90% of cases. Broad-spectrum quinolones, which are almost completely absorbed after oral administration and diffuse rapidly through the AF, are currently used for oral treatment of uncomplicated SBP. Patients who have already had a previous episode of SBP, with a 69% probability of recurrence within a year, will benefit from prophylactic treatment. Cirrhotic patients with a high risk of SBP and other infections, such as those with gastrointestinal bleeding, also benefit from primary prophylaxis and norfloxacin has been used with success.

Viridans group streptococci: an underestimated cause of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients with ascites

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the study was to examine the characteristics of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) caused by streptococci, in particular viridans group streptococci (VGS), and to investigate a potential association between the long-term administration of norfloxacin and high-level resistance to fluoroquinolones in these organisms.

METHODS

We reviewed 84 episodes of SBP and bacterascites caused by streptococci that occurred in 75 patients over a 6-year period. Isolates were tested for antibiotic susceptibility by the determination of minimum inhibitory concentrations.

RESULTS

Of the 84 isolates, 46 (54.8%) were associated with SBP, 12 (14.3%) were associated with symptomatic bacterascites, and 26 (31%) were associated with asymptomatic bacterascites. VGS were responsible for 39 of the 58 episodes of SBP and symptomatic bacterascites, largely preceding group B streptococci (n=7), Streptococcus pneumoniae (n=6) and Streptococcus bovis (n=5). Most of the episodes were community acquired. An extraperitoneal site of infection was found in three patients only. Positive blood cultures were less frequent in patients with VGS infection than in those with SBP caused by other streptococci (12.8 versus 52.6%, P<0.001). The rates of susceptibility to penicillin, amoxicillin and cefotaxime were 84.5, 87.9 and 91.4%, respectively. All isolates, including those from patients receiving norfloxacin, were susceptible to levofloxacin and moxifloxacin.

CONCLUSIONS

VGS are an underestimated cause of SBP in patients with cirrhosis. Most isolates are susceptible to beta-lactam agents and new fluoroquinolones.

Nitric oxide and renal function in cirrhotic patients with ascites: from physiopathology to practice

Patients with cirrhosis and ascites show systemic and splanchnic arterial vasodilation, which causes a reduction in effective arterial blood volume and the activation of hormonal anti-natriuretic systems. Renal impairment is the most important predictor of hospital mortality in cirrhotic patients with SBP. In patients with SBP, the inflammatory response to the infection (TNF-alpha, IL-6) may be an important mechanism of renal dysfunction. Ascitic-fluid NO metabolites are related independently to the development of renal impairment. Treatment of SBP with intravenous albumin in addition to cefotaxime prevents renal impairment and reduces mortality in comparison with treatment with cefotaxime alone. As soon as ascites develops, liver transplantation should be considered in eligible patients, especially when local mean waiting times exceed life expectancy. Nitric oxide (NO), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of circulatory alterations observed in cirrhotic patients with ascites. Kidney failure is one of the main factors associated with mortality in patients with end-stage liver disease developing complications, particularly severe infections and variceal haemorrhage. Renal impairment occurs in patients with the highest concentration of cytokines in plasma and ascitic fluid and is associated with marked activation of the renin-angiotensin system. In patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), serum and ascitic fluid levels of NO metabolites (nitrites and nitrates) were higher than those of patients with sterile ascites, and renal impairment is considered to be caused by a decrease in effective arterial blood volume as a result of the infection. The administration of albumin prevents deterioration of renal function and reduces mortality in these patients. However, SBP and renal dysfunction are late complications in the course of liver cirrhosis. As soon as ascites develops, liver transplantation should be considered in eligible patients, especially when local mean waiting times exceed life expectancy. A better knowledge of metabolic disorders associated with the early stage of cirrhosis is essential for the development of optimal therapeutic strategies for the prophylaxis and treatment of portal hypertension and its complications.

[Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis]

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis occurs in 30% of patients with ascites due to cirrhosis leading to high morbidity and mortality rates. The pathogenesis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is related to altered host defenses observed in end-stage liver disease, overgrowth of microorganisms, and bacterial translocation from the intestinal lumen to mesenteric lymph nodes. Clinical manifestations vary from severe to slight or absent, demanding analysis of the ascitic fluid. The diagnosis is confirmed by a number of neutrophils over 250/mm3 associated or not to bacterial growth in culture of an ascites sample. Enterobacteriae prevail and Escherichia coli has been the most frequent bacterium reported. Mortality rates decreased markedly in the last two decades due to early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment. Third generation intravenous cephalosporins are effective in 70% to 95% of the cases. Recurrence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is common and can be prevented by the continuous use of oral norfloxacin. The development of bacterial resistance demands the search for new options in the prophylaxis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis; probiotics are a promising new approach, but deserve further evaluation. Short-term antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for patients with cirrhosis and ascites shortly after an acute episode of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Cryptococcus neoformans Infection in Patients With Cirrhosis, Including Liver Transplant Candidates

We reviewed the cases of patients with cirrhosis, including liver transplant candidates, at our institution in the last 3 years (n = 5) and those individually described in the literature (n = 28), to assess unique characteristics and outcome of cryptococcosis in these patients. Sixty-four percent (21/33) of the patients had no other recognized immunosuppression. Peritonitis (in 45%, 15/33 of the patients) with modest pleocytosis in the ascitic fluid, was the most common presenting feature. Median time to detection of Cryptococcus in the ascitic fluid cultures was 6 days. Overall mortality rate was 81% (26/32); death was deemed attributable to cryptococcosis in 24/26 patients who died. Evaluation of culture-negative neutrocytic ascites in febrile cirrhotic patients warrants consideration of cryptococcal peritonitis.

Current pharmacotherapy in the management of cirrhosis: focus on the hyperdynamic circulation

Many major complications of hepatic cirrhosis relate to the development of a characteristic hyperdynamic circulatory state in these patients, irrespective of the underlying disease aetiology. Vasodilatation of the systemic and splanchnic circulations leads to a reduced total systemic vascular resistance, increased cardiac output and intense activation of neurohumoral vasoconstrictor systems including the sympathetic nervous system, renin-angiotensin system and vasopressin. Vasoconstriction of the renal and hepatic circulations contributes to the development of renal failure and portal hypertension, respectively. Current treatments that focus on amelioration of these circulatory derangements offer much promise, however, they are often limited by side effects in these patients.

Role of immunosuppression in the development of quinolone-resistant Escherichia coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and in the mortality of E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

BACKGROUND

Norfloxacin decreases the incidence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotics, but promotes the appearance of quinolone-resistant Escherichia coli.

AIM

: To define the characteristics of quinolone-resistant E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

METHODS

E. coli-positive ascitic fluid cultures were identified during a 6-year period. Data on quinolone-sensitive and quinolone-resistant E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis were compared.

RESULTS

One hundred and two E. coli-positive ascitic fluid cultures were detected. Cirrhotics accounted for 67 cases. Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was found in 47 of the 67 (70%) cases [35 (74%) caused by quinolone-sensitive and 12 (26%) caused by quinolone-resistant E. coli]. Norfloxacin prophylaxis was higher in the quinolone-resistant group (92% vs. 6%, P < 0.001). Compared with patients with quinolone-sensitive E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, those with quinolone-resistant E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis showed a higher prevalence of associated immunosuppressive factors (immunosuppressive drugs, human immunodeficiency virus infection or cancer) (92% vs. 20%, P < 0.001). Steroid therapy was independently associated with quinolone-resistant E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (odds ratio, 49; 95% confidence interval, 3.4-699; P = 0.004). The Child-Pugh score (P = 0.03), immunosuppression (P = 0.02) and renal failure (P = 0.01) were independent predictors of E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis-related mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Associated immunosuppression is an important co-factor for the development of quinolone-resistant E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and for E. coli spontaneous bacterial peritonitis-related mortality.

Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is the prototypical ascitic fluid infection occurring in patients with advanced liver disease and ascites. The key to successful treatment of SBP is a knowledge of appropriate antibiotic regimens and an understanding of the setting in which infection develops, particularly those individuals at high risk for infection. A high index of suspicion should lead to early diagnostic paracentesis and ascitic fluid analysis. Treatment of SBP involves the use of non-nephrotoxic broad-spectrum antibiotics expected to cover the typical bacterial flora associated with SBP. SBP typically involves infection with a single organism, with Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp, and Streptococcus spp responsible for nearly three fourths of cases. The treatment of choice is cefotaxime 2 g given intravenously every 8 hours for a total of 5 days. The antibiotic regimen is adjusted based on the results of ascitic fluid cultures. Other antibiotic regimens for SBP are less well studied. Given the significant morbidity and mortality rates associated with SBP, efforts to prevent its development and recurrence with antibiotic prophylaxis are warranted. The most extensively studied form of prophylaxis involves selective intestinal decontamination (SID) with the oral fluoroquinolone norfloxacin. Individuals with low-protein ascites (ascitic fluid total protein < 1g/dL) benefit from SID with norfloxacin 400 mg daily during times of hospitalization. Long-term primary prophylaxis during outpatient management of individuals awaiting liver transplantation with severe ascites and advanced liver failure should also be considered. Patients with cirrhosis and upper gastrointestinal bleeding should receive norfloxacin 400 mg twice daily for 1 week following their bleed. Those individuals surviving an episode of SBP should be treated with norfloxacin 400 mg daily until the risk of SBP is removed by definitive resolution of the ascites or liver transplantation surgery. Although the infection-related mortality associated with SBP has decreased to less than 10%, hospitalization-related mortality remains as high as 30% as a result of the severe underlying liver disease in which the infection arises and the marked generation of cytokines and nitric oxide resulting from the infection. Recently, the simultaneous administration of intravenous albumin and antibiotics for SBP has been shown to result in the decreased development of azotemia and hospitalization-related mortality. Further improvement in the outcomes of SBP will require treatments targeting this cytokine cascade rather than the development of more potent antibiotics.

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

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is a serious complication of cirrhotic ascites, arising most frequently in those with advanced liver disease. Its development leads to a further reduction in the effective arterial blood volume, and it has a mortality rate equivalent to that of a variceal bleed. However, problems remain with regard to the identification and optimal treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Several important studies and consensus documents on the condition have recently been published which aid in the identification of patients at risk and help to guide therapy. In this review, we discuss these publications and address the issues of diagnosis, treatment and both primary and secondary prophylaxis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in the light of recent data.

Antibiotics for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotics

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is mainly a complication of cirrhotic ascites that occurs in the absence of any intra-abdominal, surgically treatable source of infection. Antibiotics have been recommended as the mainstay treatment for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. However, this recommendation is not based on convincing evidence. It has been proposed that treatment should cover Gram-negative enteric bacteria and Gram-positive cocci, that are responsible for up to 90% of cases.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of different types and ways of antibiotic therapy for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Electronic searches on the Cochrane Library (Issue 3, 2000), the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Trials Register (March 2000), EMBASE (1980-2000), MEDLINE (1966-2000); scanning the references of all identified studies; contacting the first author of each included trial.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised trials comparing different types of antibiotics for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were independently extracted by two reviewers. Relative risks or weighted mean differences, with their 95% confidence intervals were estimated using 'intention-to-treat' analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine trials dealing with 684 patients diagnosed with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis were included. No placebo-controlled trial was found. Each of the included trials compared different antibiotics, and no meta-analysis could be performed. We were unable to establish the optimal dose or duration of antibiotic therapy and found no convincing evidence that cefotaxime is more effective than ampicillin-tobramycin or that oral quinolones should be recommended for patients with less severe manifestations of the disease.

REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS

This review provides no clear evidence for the treatment of cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Until large, well-conducted, trials provide adequate evidence, treatment must be based on clinical experience.