Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriers in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis with mupirocin: long-term results

Long-term trends in the incidence of peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis disclose an increasing relevance of streptococcal infections: A longitudinal study

Background

The selective impact of strategies for prevention of PD-related peritonitis (PDrP) may have modified, in the long term, the causal spectrum, clinical presentation and outcomes of these infections.

Objectives

To compare trends in the incidence of PDrP by different microorganisms during a 30-year period, with a particular focus on streptococcal infections. To analyze the clinical presentation and outcomes of these infections. Secondarily, to investigate how the isolation of different species of streptococci can influence the clinical course of PDrP by this genus of bacteria.

Method

Following a retrospective, observational design we investigated 1061 PDrP (1990–2019). We used joinpoint regression analysis to explore trends in the incidence of PDrP by different microorganisms, and compared the risk profile (Cox), clinical presentation and outcomes (logistic regression) of these infections.

Main results

Our data showed a progressive decline in the incidence of PDrP by staphylococci and Gram negative bacteria, while the absolute rates of streptococcal (average annual percent change +1.6%, 95% CI -0.1/+3.2) and polymicrobial (+1.8%, +0.1/+3.5) infections tended to increase, during the same period. Remarkably, streptococci were isolated in 58.6% of polymicrobial infections, and patients who suffered a streptococcal PDrP had a 35.8% chance of presenting at least one other infection by the same genus. The risk profile for streptococcal infections was comparable to that observed for PDrP overall. Streptococcal PDrP were associated with a severe initial inflammatory response, but their clinical course was generally nonaggressive thereafter. We did not observe a differential effect of different groups of streptococci on the clinical presentation or outcome of PDrP.

Conclusions

Time trends in the incidence of PDrP by different microorganisms have granted streptococci an increasing relevance as causative agents of these infections, during the last three decades. This behaviour suggests that current measures of prevention of PDrP may not be sufficiently effective, in the case of this genus of microorganisms.

A Comparative Analysis on the Incidence of Peritonitis and Exit-Site Infection in Capd and Automated Peritoneal Dialysis

Objective

To compare the incidence of peritonitis and exit-site infection in an ample group of patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and automated peritoneal dialysis in a single center during a 10-year period.

Design

Nonrandomized, prospective study.

Setting

Public, tertiary care hospital providing peritoneal dialysis care to a population of (approximately) 750 000 people.

Patients

We studied 213 patients on CAPD and 115 on automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) starting therapy between January 1989 and August 1998, with a minimum follow-up of 3 months.

Main Outcome Measures

Using a multivariate approach, we compared the incidence, clinical course, and outcome of peritonitis and exit-site infections in both groups, controlling for other risk factors for the complications studied.

Results

The incidence of peritonitis was higher in CAPD than in APD (adjusted difference 0.20 episodes/ patient/year, 95% confidence interval 0.08 – 0.32). There was a trend for CAPD patients to present earlier with peritonitis than APD patients, yet the incidence of and survival to the first exit-site infection were similar in both groups. The etiologic spectrum of infections displayed minor differences between groups. Automated PD patients were more frequently hospitalized for peritonitis, but otherwise, the complications and outcome of peritonitis and exit-site infections did not differ significantly between patients on CAPD and those on APD.

Conclusions

Automated PD is associated with a lower incidence of peritonitis than is CAPD, while exit-site infection is similarly incident under both modes of therapy. The etiologic spectrum, complications, and outcome of peritonitis and exit-site infection do not differ markedly between CAPD and APD. Prevention of peritonitis should be included among the generic advantages of APD over CAPD.

Prophylaxis against Gram-Positive Organisms Causing Exit-Site Infection and Peritonitis in Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Patients by Applying Mupirocin Ointment at the Catheter Exit Site

Objective

We evaluated the effectiveness of local application of mupirocin ointment at the catheter exit site in preventing exit-site infection and peritonitis attributable to gram-positive organisms in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients.

Methods

This prospective randomized controlled trial included 154 patients. They were randomly allocated to a mupirocin-treated group (group M) and a control group (group C). Group M included 73 patients (47.4%) who were instructed to apply mupirocin ointment to the catheter exit site once daily after the routine daily exit-site dressing. Group C included 81 patients (52.6%) who continued their usual daily exit-site care without applying mupirocin. The two groups were followed to see whether there would be any difference in the frequency of exit-site infection and peritonitis or in the infecting organisms.

Results

Interim data were collected at 5 months after the start of the study. Those data showed a significantly lower incidence of exit-site infection and peritonitis attributable to gram-positive organisms in group M as compared with group C. The incidence of gram-positive exit-site infection in group C was 1 episode per 36.8 patient–months; in group M, the incidence was 1 episode per ∞ patient–months (0 incidence in 5 months, p < 0.05). The incidence of gram-positive peritonitis in group C was 1 episode per 40.5 patient–months; in group M, the incidence was 1 episode per 365 patient–months ( p < 0.05). Mupirocin treatment had no significant effect on the incidence of exit-site infection and peritonitis attributable to other organisms. Before mupirocin treatment, we saw a trend toward higher infection rates in diabetic patients and nasal carriers of Staphylococcus aureus as compared with non diabetic patients and nasal non carriers, although the differences were not statistically significant. Mupirocin brought the infection rate attributable to gram-positive organisms to an equally low level in diabetic and non-diabetic patients, and in nasal carriers and nasal non carriers of S. aureus. No adverse effect of local application of mupirocin was reported.

Conclusion

Local application of mupirocin ointment at the catheter exit site is a safe and effective method of preventing exit-site infection and peritonitis involving gram-positive organisms.

Effect of Preventing Staphylococcus Aureus Carriage on Rates of Peritoneal Catheter-Related Staphylococcal Infections. Literature Synthesis

Objective

To determine whether specific preventive measures reduce the rate of peritoneal catheter-related infections and peritoneal catheter loss due to Staphylococcus aureus.

Design

Structured literature synthesis.

Methods

Relevant studies were identified by medline search, from personal files, and from the reference lists of retrieved articles. We analyzed English-language studies on treatment targeted at S. aureus, with at least 10 subjects and at least 3 months of follow-up, and data on staphylococcal peritoneal dialysis catheter infections. We excluded noncontrolled studies. Two investigators abstracted data using a structured form.

Results

W e evaluated six studies with concurrent controls and eight studies with historical controls. In one randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded study, periodic nasal mupirocin ointment reduced the rate of staphylococcal exit-site infection from 0.42 to 0.12 episodes/patient-year ( p = 0.006), but had no effect on the rates of staphylococcal tunnel infection, peritonitis, or catheter loss. In one randomized study without placebo control, periodic oral rifampin reduced the rate of staphylococcal exit-site infection from 0.65 to 0.22 epi/pt-yr ( p = 0.011), but had no effect on the rate of staphylococcal peritonitis. In another nonblinded, randomized, controlled study, the use of either rifampin or mupirocin was associated with low rates of staphylococcal catheter infections and catheter loss. In one study with historical controls, the rate of staphylococcal exit-site infection and peritonitis was lower after oral rifampin prophylaxis. In seven other studies comparing nasal or exit-site mupirocin to historical controls, the rate of staphylococcal exit-site infection decreased from 0.17 to 0.05 epi/pt-yr, the rate of staphylococcal peritonitis decreased from 0.18 to 0.06 epi/pt-yr, and the rate of catheter loss decreased from 0.09 to 0.05 epi/pt-yr during the mupirocin period.

Conclusion

The literature provides strong evidence that staphylococcal carriage prophylaxis using either oral rifampin or mupirocin ointment in the nares or exit site reduces significantly the rate of exit-site infection due to Staphylococcus aureus. Weaker evidence based on studies with historical controls suggests that rifampin or mupirocin prophylaxis also reduces the rate of staphylococcal peritonitis and peritoneal catheter loss. Studies with a stronger level of evidence are needed to verify this last point.

Outcome following Staphylococcal Peritonitis

Objective

Staphylococcus spp predominate as the causative pathogen of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)-related peritonitis. This study evaluated the difference in morbidity and mortality between peritonitis caused by S. aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS).

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

A single regional dialysis unit in a teaching hospital.

Patients

Thirty-seven patients had S. aureus peritonitis and 65 patients had CoNS peritonitis between July 1990 and November 1995.

Main Outcome Measures

Using the first recorded episode of peritonitis, survival analysis was performed for time to ( 1 ) death, ( 2 ) removal of peritoneal dialysis catheter, and ( 3 ) change to hemodialysis. Abdominal complications were recorded for the first and subsequent episodes.

Results

No difference in time to death was demonstrated for the two groups ( p = 0.79), although two deaths that occurred during therapy for peritonitis were attributable to S. aureus infection. In addition, 5 patients developed serious abdominal complications related to an episode of S. aureus peritonitis. Patients with S. aureus peritonitis had a shorter time to both peritoneal dialysis catheter removal ( p = 0.004) and change to hemodialysis ( p = 0.014). The change in mode of dialysis was independent of catheter loss.

Conclusion

This study highlights the serious nature of S. aureus peritonitis and confirms the need for effective preventive measures against infection by this pathogen.

Effect of Local Mupirocin Application on Exit-Site Infection and Peritonitis in an Indian Peritoneal Dialysis Population

Background

Staphylococcus aureus-associated peritonitis and catheter exit-site infections (ESIs) are important causes of hospitalization and catheter loss in patients undergoing chronic peritoneal dialysis. Intranasal and topical use of mupirocin has been found to be an effective strategy in decreasing S. aureus-related infectious complications in persons who are carriers of S. aureus; however, there is no consensus regarding the prophylactic use of mupirocin irrespective of carrier status. We aimed to determine the potential effectiveness of application of mupirocin cream at the catheter exit site in preventing ESI and peritonitis irrespective of carrier status in a tropical country such as India.

Methods

This prospective historically controlled study was done in a total of 40 patients. From August 2003, all patients, incident and prevalent, were instructed to apply 2% mupirocin cream daily to the exit site instead of the older practice of povidone-iodine and gauze dressing. Patients were not screened to determine whether they were S. aureus carriers. The infection-related data for 1 year, until July 2004, were compared with the historical control, which was infection-related data for the year preceding the year of mupirocin application.

Results

Mean age of the study population was 62 years, with 61.8% being male and 64.3% being diabetic. Local application of mupirocin led to a significant reduction in the incidence density per patient-month of both ESI and peritonitis compared to controls (0.15 vs 0.37 and 0.37 vs 0.67, p = 0.01 for both). This amounted to a relative reduction of 60.5% and 55% respectively. ESI and peritonitis due to S. aureus were also significantly lower in the study group compared to controls (incidence density per patient-month 0.05 vs 0.13 and zero vs 0.17 respectively, p < 0.01 for both). There occurred no catheter removal due to infection-related complications during the study period compared to two during the control period. None of the patients reported a mupirocin-related adverse effect.

Conclusions

Daily application of mupirocin at the exit site is a well-tolerated and effective strategy in reducing the incidence of ESI and peritonitis in a tropical country such as India. It can thus significantly reduce morbidity, catheter loss, and transfer to hemodialysis in peritoneal dialysis patients.

Staphylococcus Aureus Carriage in Adult Peritoneal Dialysis Patients and Their Spouses

Objective

We hypothesized that carriage of Staphylococcus aureus among continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients was influenced by their spouses. Furthermore, this carrier status was compared to previous Staph. aureus peritonitis episodes in order to identify the influence of Staph. aureuscarriage on peritonitis rate.

Design

A combined prospective surveillance study (Staph. aureus carriage) and retrospective chart review (Staph. aureus peritonitis).

Setting

A single peritoneal dialysis unit in a county hospital.

Patients and methods

Cultures from patients (n = 32) and spouses (n = 16) were obtained twice, with a 1-month interval, from the anterior nares, the umbilical, and one groin area. All positive cultures were phage typed. Retrospective chart review of all episodes of Staph. aureus peritonitis among the patients was carried out.

Results

Twelve of 32 patients (37.5%) and 5 of 16 spouses (31 %)evaluated were carriers. Half of the spouses of patients who were Staph. aureus carriers, were also carriers, as opposed to 20% of spouses of non carrier patients (p = 0.30). Patients and spouses always shared the same phage type. Among patients, Staph. aureus was found in the nose only (n = 9), in all three regions (n = 2), and extranasally only (n = 1). If only one nasal culture was used to establish carriage, the sensitivity and negative predictive value would be 92% and 95%, respectively. A trend toward a higher incidence (p = 0.062) of Staph. aureus peritonitis was found among carriers (patients), 0.37 versus 0.28 peritonitis episode/dialysis -year.

Conclusions

Only one positive nasal culture was necessary when carriage of Staph. aureus was to be established. Staph. aureuscarriage was found more often in patients who had previously suffered from Staph. aureus peritonitis. The phage types isolated remained fairly constant, and the patients and spouses often had the same carrier state and shared the same phage types, although transmission does not always take place.

Exit-Site Care with Ciprofloxacin Otologic Solution Prevents Polyurethane Catheter Infection in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Objective

Mupirocin ointment and antiseptics are standard cleansing agents in routine exit-site care of peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters, but these agents have a deleterious effect on polyurethane devices. We assessed the effectiveness of topical use of ciprofloxacin otologic solution for preventing exit-site infection (ESI) in PD patients with polyurethane catheters.

Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Service of Nephrology of an acute-care teaching hospital in Galdácano, Bizkaia, Spain.

Patients

A total of 164 patients with polyurethane catheters inserted was studied from start of continuous ambulatory PD to the end of a 24-month period. Patients were divided into two groups according to exit-site treatment protocols.

Intervention

Patients in group 1 ( n = 86) were instructed on daily exit-site care with soap and water only; whereas patients in group 2 ( n = 78) cleansed with soap and water, followed by application of a single-dose vial of 0.5 mL ciprofloxacin (1 mg) for application around the insertion site.

Main Outcome Measures

Episodes of ESI and peritonitis.

Results

There were 67 episodes of ESI among patients in group 1 versus 9 episodes among patients in group 2 ( p < 0.05), resulting in a rate of 0.41 and 0.06 episodes per patient-year of exposure, respectively ( p < 0.001). Staphylococcus aureus ESI rate was 0.34 in group 1 versus 0.06 in group 2 ( p = 0.001). Infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other pathogens occurred in 11 patients in group 1 and in no patients in group 2 ( p = 0.05). Peritonitis due to S. aureus ESI was significantly less frequent among patients treated with ciprofloxacin (1 vs 9 cases, p = 0.001). Removal of the catheter was necessary in 5 patients in group 1 and in no patients in group 2 ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Daily application of ciprofloxacin otologic solution at the exit site of PD patients with polyurethane catheters inserted significantly reduces the rate of ESI caused by S. aureus and other organisms, particularly P. aeruginosa.

Nasal Carriage and Peritonitis by Staphylococcus Aureus in Patients on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis: A Prospective Study

Objective

To establish whether or not patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) using current infection control measures who are nasal carriers of Staphylococcus aureus are at risk for the development of S. aureus peritonitis.

Design

A prospective 22-month study analyzing nasal and ski nlnasal (i.e., nasal and/orexit-site)carrier status for S. aureusand peritonitis episodes. Nasal swab cultures for S. aureus were taken with 1 to 3-month intervals; swab cultures from the catheter exit site were taken only when infection was suspected.

Setting

Renal unit, tertiary-care center.

Patients

All patients on CAPD at our center that could be observed during at least 2 months.

Interventions

None.

Main Outcome Measures

Nasal and skinlnasal carrier status, occurrence of peritonitis.

Results

Of 54 enrolled patients, 31 (57%) were nasal carriers for S. aureus: 6 of these 31 developed S. aureus peritonitis as opposed to none of 23 non-carriers (p = 0.03). The S. aureus peritonitis rate in 28 skin/nasal carriers was increased when compared to non-carriers (p = 0.02), but there was no difference between chronic and intermittent skin/nasal carriers (p = 0.63).

Conclusions

In our population, nasal carriers are at increas ed risk for the development of S. aureusperitonitis. Further studies should evaluate the effect of eradication of nasal carriage of S. aureus and the effect of additional preventive hygienic measures on the occurrence of peritonitis by S. aureus.

Survival on Chronic Peritoneal Dialysis: Have Results Improved in the 1990s?

One hundred and seventy patients were treated with home peritoneal dialysis (PD) in our unit between 1986 and 1994. During this time lapse, several technical improvements were included in our practice. Among others there were: Swan neck permanent catheters, Y-systems, and automated home PD (APD). We reviewed our experience, to assess if these improvements had any impact on patient and technique survival, comparing patients who started PD between 1986 and 1989 (group A), with those who started PD between 1990 and 1994 (group B).

Both groups had a comparable basal comorbidity, except for a higher proportion of elderly patients in group B (mean age 48 vs 58 years, p < 0.01). The incidence of peritonitis was lower in group B, while there were no differences in the rates of catheter-related infection or hospital admission. Also, there were no significant differences in patient or technique survival.

The increasing presence of elderly patients in our PD unit was, apparently, determinant for the evolution of patient survival. On the other side, technical improvements had a marginal impact on technique survival. A good general PD survival in both groups, with few patients changing to hemodialysis (HD), may explain the lack of significant differences. In addition, peritonitis and inadequate PD/ultrafiltration (UF) were replaced by abdominal surgical events and social reasons as the main causes for PD failure in the second phase of the study.

Peritoneal Catheters and Exit-Site Practices toward Optimum Peritoneal Access: 1998 Update

The peritoneal catheter is the PD patient's lifeline. Advances in catheter knowledge have made it possible to obtain access to the peritoneal cavity safely and to maintain access over an extended period of time. Catheter-related infections remain a major problem, solutions for which are being actively researched. Nevertheless, the successful outcome of a catheter is very much dependent on meticulous care and attention to detail. Adherence to the principles of catheter insertion and subsequent management and care remain the cornerstone of successful PD access. The guidelines provided in this publication represent a consensus view based on studies from the literature and opinions of experts in this field; it is hoped that implementation of these guidelines will improve catheter-related outcomes and, therefore, enhance patient care.

Staphylococcus Aureus Prophylaxis and Trends in Gram-Negative Infections in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients

Objective

To examine gram-negative exit-site infection and peritonitis rates before and after the implementation of Staphylococcus aureus prophylaxis in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

Design

Prospective data collection with periodic implementation of protocols to decrease infection rates in two PD programs.

Patients

663 incident patients on PD.

Interventions

Implementation of S. aureus prophylaxis, beginning in 1990.

Main Outcome Measures

Rates of S. aureus, gram-negative, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa exit-site infections and peritonitis.

Results

Staphylococcus aureus exit-site infection and peritonitis rates fluctuated without significant trends during the first decade (without prophylaxis), then began to decline during the 1990s subsequent to implementation of prophylaxis, reaching levels of 0.02/year at risk and zero in the year 2000. Gram-negative infections fell toward the end of the 1980s, due probably to the implementation of better connectology. However, there have been no significant changes for the past 6 years. There was little change in P. aeruginosa infections over the entire time period. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is now the most common cause of catheter infection and catheter-related peritonitis.

Conclusions

Prophylaxis against S. aureus is highly effective in reducing the rate of S. aureus infections but has no effect on gram-negative infections. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is now the most serious cause of catheter-related peritonitis.

Prevention of Catheter Related Infections in Patients on CAPD

Catheter-related infections remain a serious problem for patients on peritoneal dialysis. Such infections can be reduced by careful patient selection and training, by the use of the best connection technology and screening and treating nasal carriage. To date, treatment is less than optimal and therefore, the primary goal should be prevention of catheter-related infections. Prevention is based on improving catheter design and implantation technique, while providing careful exit-site care. Regardless of how it is implemented, we must aggressively pursue the prevention of catheter-related infections by eradicating S.aureus exit-site carriage in PD patients. Based on its effectiveness in adult PD patients, its low rate of adverse effects, and its reasonable cost-effectiveness, application of mupirocin ointment at the exit-site is the current method of choice for preventing PD catheter infections caused byS. aureus. In addition to reducing S. aureus exit-site infections, mupirocin seems to reduce the rates of staphylococcal peritonitis and PD catheter loss. Whether the ointment should be applied in the nares, to the exit-site or both, and whether it should be used only in staphylococcal nasal carriers or all PD patients requires further study.

MUL+DO: a multicomponent index for the quick diagnosis of peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

Peritoneal infection is a common problem that has a negative impact on the survival of patients and the technique. The early administration of peritoneal infection treatment reduces complications. The goal of this study is to propose a multicomponent index (MUL+DO) for the quick and efficient diagnosis of peritoneal infection. We selected a training cohort of peritoneal effluent samples which were analysed by Multistix ® 10 SG Siemens test strips for leukocyte detection. Then, each sample was examined according to the gold standard: number of leukocytes, polymorphonuclear percentage and microbiological culture. We constructed the MUL+DO index by adding one point to the MULTISTIX [0-1-2-3] modified chromatic scale if the patient reported pain. The MUL+DO index ranged from 0 to 4. A model validation cohort was then created. MUL+DO was applied to each sample and leukocytes and polymorphonuclear percentage were also assessed. The training cohort ultimately included 134 samples, 34 of which with infection (25.4% [17.6-33.1]). Samples with a MUL+DO value greater than 1 presented a sensitivity and specificity of 100%. The validation cohort included 100 samples with 16 infections (16% [8.3-23.7]). Assuming a sample with a MUL+DO value greater than 1 to be positive, we obtained a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 95.2%. The MUL+DO index applied to the training cohort showed a perfect separation of the positive and negative populations. All positive patients presented a score ≥2. In the validation cohort, the MUL+DO reported a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 95.2%.

Bacterial Infections in Neonates Following Mupirocin-Based MRSA Decolonization: A Multicenter Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE To characterize the risk of infection after MRSA decolonization with intranasal mupirocin. DESIGN Multicenter, retrospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary care neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) from 3 urban hospitals in the United States ranging in size from 45 to 100 beds. METHODS MRSA-colonized neonates were identified from NICU admissions occurring from January 2007 to December 2014, during which a targeted decolonization strategy was used for MRSA control. In 2 time-to-event analyses, MRSA-colonized neonates were observed from the date of the first MRSA-positive surveillance screen until (1) the first occurrence of novel gram-positive cocci in sterile culture or discharge or (2) the first occurrence of novel gram-negative bacilli in sterile culture or discharge. Mupirocin exposure was treated as time varying. RESULTS A total of 522 MRSA-colonized neonates were identified from 16,144 neonates admitted to site NICUs. Of the MRSA-colonized neonates, 384 (74%) received mupirocin. Average time from positive culture to mupirocin treatment was 3.5 days (standard deviation, 7.2 days). The adjusted hazard of gram-positive cocci infection was 64% lower among mupirocin-exposed versus mupirocin-unexposed neonates (hazard ratio, 0.36; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.17-0.76), whereas the adjusted hazard ratio of gram-negative bacilli infection comparing mupirocin-exposed and -unexposed neonates was 1.05 (95% CI, 0.42-2.62). CONCLUSIONS In this multicentered cohort of MRSA-colonized neonates, mupirocin-based decolonization treatment appeared to decrease the risk of infection with select gram-positive organisms as intended, and the treatment was not significantly associated with risk of subsequent infections with organisms not covered by mupirocin's spectrum of activity. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:930-936.

Antimicrobial agents for preventing peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an important therapy for patients with end-stage kidney disease and is used in more than 200,000 such patients globally. However, its value is often limited by the development of infections such as peritonitis and exit-site and tunnel infections. Multiple strategies have been developed to reduce the risk of peritonitis including antibiotics, topical disinfectants to the exit site and antifungal agents. However, the effectiveness of these strategies has been variable and are based on a small number of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The optimal preventive strategies to reduce the occurrence of peritonitis remain unclear.This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2004.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of antimicrobial strategies used to prevent peritonitis in PD patients.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant's Specialised Register to 4 October 2016 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies contained in the Specialised Register are identified through search strategies specifically designed for CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE; handsearching conference proceedings; and searching the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs or quasi-RCTs in patients receiving chronic PD, which evaluated any antimicrobial agents used systemically or locally to prevent peritonitis or exit-site/tunnel infection were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed risk of bias and extracted data. Summary estimates of effect were obtained using a random-effects model, and results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

Thirty-nine studies, randomising 4435 patients, were included. Twenty additional studies have been included in this update. The risk of bias domains were often unclear or high; risk of bias was judged to be low in 19 (49%) studies for random sequence generation, 12 (31%) studies for allocation concealment, 22 (56%) studies for incomplete outcome reporting, and in 12 (31%) studies for selective outcome reporting. Blinding of participants and personnel was considered to be at low risk of bias in 8 (21%) and 10 studies (26%) for blinding of outcome assessors. It should be noted that blinding of participants and personnel was not possible in many of the studies because of the nature of the intervention or control treatment.The use of oral or topical antibiotic compared with placebo/no treatment, had uncertain effects on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (3 studies, 191 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.19 to 1.04) and the risk of peritonitis (5 studies, 395 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.19).The use of nasal antibiotic compared with placebo/no treatment had uncertain effects on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (3 studies, 338 patients, low quality evidence: RR 1.34, 95% CI 0.62 to 2.87) and the risk of peritonitis (3 studies, 338 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.31).Pre/perioperative intravenous vancomycin compared with no treatment may reduce the risk of early peritonitis (1 study, 177 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.61) but has an uncertain effect on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (1 study, 177 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.36, 95% CI 0.10 to 1.32).The use of topical disinfectant compared with standard care or other active treatment (antibiotic or other disinfectant) had uncertain effects on the risk of exit-site/tunnel infection (8 studies, 973 patients, low quality evidence, RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.33) and the risk of peritonitis (6 studies, 853 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.06).Antifungal prophylaxis with oral nystatin/fluconazole compared with placebo/no treatment may reduce the risk of fungal peritonitis occurring after a patient has had an antibiotic course (2 studies, 817 patients, low quality evidence: RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.63).No intervention reduced the risk of catheter removal or replacement. Most of the available studies were small and of suboptimal quality. Only six studies enrolled 200 or more patients.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

In this update, we identified limited data from RCTs and quasi-RCTs which evaluated strategies to prevent peritonitis and exit-site/tunnel infections. This review demonstrates that pre/peri-operative intravenous vancomycin may reduce the risk of early peritonitis and that antifungal prophylaxis with oral nystatin or fluconazole reduces the risk of fungal peritonitis following an antibiotic course. However, no other antimicrobial interventions have proven efficacy. In particular, the use of nasal antibiotic to eradicate Staphylococcus aureus, had an uncertain effect on the risk of peritonitis and raises questions about the usefulness of this approach. Given the large number of patients on PD and the importance of peritonitis, the lack of adequately powered and high quality RCTs to inform decision making about strategies to prevent peritonitis is striking.

Prophylactic treatment of chronic renal disease in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis and colonized by Staphylococcus aureus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study was performed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of alternative strategies for the prevention and treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing peritoneal dialysis and colonized by Staphylococcus aureus.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. The literature search involved the following databases: the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, Embase, LILACS, CINAHL, SciELO, and PubMed/Medline. The descriptors were "Staphylococcus aureus," "MRSA," "MSSA," "treatment," "decolonization," "nasal carrier," "colonization," "chronic kidney disease," "dialysis," and "peritoneal dialysis." Randomized controlled trials that exhibited agreement among reviewers as shown by a kappa value of >0.80 were included in the study; methodological quality was evaluated using the STROBE statement. Patients who received various antibiotic treatments (antibiotic group) or topical mupirocin (mupirocin group) were compared with those who received either no treatment or placebo (control group). Patients in the antibiotic group were also compared with those in the mupirocin group.

RESULTS

In total, nine studies involving 839 patients were included in the analysis, 187 (22.3 %) of whom were nasal carriers of S. aureus. The probability of S. aureus infection at the catheter site for peritoneal dialysis was 74 % lower in the mupirocin than control group (odds ratio [OR], 0.26; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 0.14-0.46; p < 0.001), 56 % lower in the antibiotic than control group (OR, 0.44; 95 % CI, 0.19-0.99; p = 0.048), and 52 % lower in the mupirocin than antibiotic group (OR, 0.48; 95 % CI, 0.21-1.10; p = 0.084). The difference in the probability of S. aureus peritonitis in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis was not statistically significant among the three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Mupirocin and topical antibiotics were effective for reduction of S. aureus catheter site infection in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis when compared with no treatment or placebo. However, evidence was insufficient to identify the optimal agent, route, or duration of antibiotics to treat peritonitis.

Clinical Effectiveness of Mupirocin for Preventing Staphylococcus aureus Infections in Nonsurgical Settings: A Meta-analysis

A systematic literature review and meta-analysis was performed to identify effectiveness of mupirocin decolonization in prevention of Staphylococcus aureus infections, among nonsurgical settings. Of the 15 662 unique studies identified up to August 2015, 13 randomized controlled trials, 22 quasi-experimental studies, and 1 retrospective cohort study met the inclusion criteria. Studies were excluded if mupirocin was not used for decolonization, there was no control group, or the study was conducted in an outbreak setting. The crude risk ratios were pooled (cpRR) using a random-effects model. We observed substantial heterogeneity among included studies (I(2) = 80%). Mupirocin was observed to reduce the risk for S. aureus infections by 59% (cpRR, 0.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], .36-.48) and 40% (cpRR, 0.60; 95% CI, .46-.79) in both dialysis and nondialysis settings, respectively. Mupirocin decolonization was protective against S. aureus infections among both dialysis and adult intensive care patients. Future studies are needed in other settings such as long-term care and pediatrics.

Nasal carriers are more likely to acquire exogenous Staphylococcus aureus strains than non-carriers

We performed a prospective observational study in a clinical setting to test the hypothesis that prior colonization by a Staphylococcus aureus strain would protect, by colonization interference or other processes, against de novo colonization and, hence, possible endo-infections by newly acquired S. aureus strains. Three hundred and six patients hospitalized for >7 days were enrolled. For every patient, four nasal swabs (days 1, 3, 5, and 7) were taken, and patients were identified as carriers when a positive nasal culture for S. aureus was obtained on day 1 of hospitalization. For all patients who acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) or methicillin-susceptible S. aureus via colonization and/or infection during hospitalization, strains were collected. We note that our study may suffer from false-negative cultures, local problems with infection control and hospital hygiene, or staphylococcal carriage at alternative anatomical sites. Among all patients, 22% were prior carriers of S. aureus, including 1.9% whom carried MRSA upon admission. The overall nasal staphylococcal carriage rate among dermatology patients was significantly higher than that among neurosurgery patients (n = 25 (55.5%) vs. n = 42 (16.1%), p 0.005). This conclusion held when the carriage definition included individuals who were nasal culture positive on day 1 and day 3 of hospitalization (p 0.0001). All MRSA carriers were dermatology patients. There was significantly less S. aureus acquisition among non-carriers than among carriers during hospitalization (p 0.005). The mean number of days spent in the hospital before experiencing MRSA acquisition in nasal carriers was 5.1, which was significantly lower than the score among non-carriers (22 days, p 0.012). In conclusion, we found that nasal carriage of S. aureus predisposes to rather than protects against staphylococcal acquisition in the nose, thereby refuting our null hypothesis.

Topical Therapy for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Colonization Impact on Infection Risk

Objective.

We evaluated the usefulness of topical decolonization therapy for reducing the risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection among MRSA-colonized inpatients.

Design.

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting and Intervention.

Three hospitals with universal surveillance for MRSA; at their physician's discretion, colonized patients could be treated with a 5-day course of nasal mupirocin calcium 2%, twice daily, plus Chlorhexidine gluconate 4% every second day.

Patients and Methods.

MRSA carriers were later retested for colonization (407 subjects; study 1) or followed up for development of MRSA infection (933 subjects; study 2). Multivariable methods were used to determine the impact of decolonization therapy on the risks of sustained colonization (in study 1) and MRSA infection (in study 2).

Results.

Independent risk factors for sustained colonization included residence in a long-term care facility (odds ratio [OR], 1.8 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.1–3.2]) and a pressure ulcer (OR, 2.3 195% CI, 1.2–4.4]). Mupirocin at any dose decreased this risk, particularly during the 30-60-day period after therapy; mupirocin resistance increased this risk (OR, 4.1 [95% CI, 1.6–10.7]). Over a median follow-up duration of 269 days, 69 (7.4%) of 933 patients developed infection. Independent risk factors for infection were length of stay (hazard ratio [HR], 1.2 per 5 additional days [95% CI, 1.0–1.4]), chronic lung disease (HR, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.0–2.8]), and receipt of non-MRSA-active systemic antimicrobial agents (HR, 1.8 [95% CI, 1.1–3.1]). Receipt of mupirocin did not affect the risk of infection, although there was a trend toward delayed infection among patients receiving mupirocin (median time to infection, 50 vs 15.5 days; P = .06).

Conclusions.

Mupirocin-based decolonization therapy temporarily reduced the risk of continued colonization but did not decrease the risk of subsequent infection.

Relation between nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus and surgical site infection in orthopedic surgery: the role of nasal contamination. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis

Staphylococcus aureus is the pathogen most frequently implicated in infection on orthopedic hardware; various strategies are deployed to limit the risk of transmission and surgical infection.

OBJECTIVES

The present study is based on a meta-analysis assessing firstly the relationship between nasal carriage of S. aureus and the development of osteo-articular infection and secondly current methods of decolonization.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis showed increased risk of surgical site infection in case of nasal carriage of S. aureus: OR=5.92, 95% CI [1.15-30.39]; P=0.033. For cross-transmission, a scientifically proven reduction in surgical site S. aureus levels is ensured by associated mupirocin and 2% chlorhexidine antiseptic solution in subjects with positive nasal screening results for all surgical procedures taken together; the reduction was not, however, significant in the orthopedic surgery subgroup. The meta-analysis confirmed these findings: OR=0.60, 95% CI [0.34-1.06]; P=0.08.

CONCLUSION

The literature review confirmed that nasal carriage of S. aureus is a major risk factor for surgical site infection. The efficacy of eradication could not be demonstrated for orthopedic surgery as samples were too small. The positive trend found, however, should encourage further studies with sufficient power and risk/benefit should meanwhile be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2. Meta-analysis.

Prevention of peritoneal dialysis catheter infections in Saudi peritoneal dialysis patients: the emergence of high-level mupirocin resistance

PURPOSE

Exit-site infection (ESI) and peritonitis remain the major causes of morbidity and mortality in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. This study compared the effectiveness of local mupirocin ointment and gentamicin cream in preventing both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial infections in PD patients.

METHODS

Patients from two centers (n = 203) were assigned to daily mupirocin ointment or gentamicin cream application. Infections were tracked prospectively by organisms and expressed as episodes per patient-year for both ESI and peritonitis.

RESULTS

The rate of gram-positive ESI was 0.31/episode/patient-year and 0.22 episodes/patient-year (p<0.05), whereas the rate of gram-negative ESI was 0.28 episode/patient-year and 0.11 episode/patient-year (p<0.01) in the mupirocin group and gentamicin group, respectively. Gram-positive ESI occurred in 17.1% vs 10.2% of patients (p<0.05), whereas 20% of and 5.1% of patients (p<0.001) had gram-negative ESI in the 2 groups respectively. S.aureus was cultured at exit-site in the mupirocin group in 27.8% patients, 60% (16.7% of the total Gram-positive isolates) of them being with high-level mupirocin-resistance. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was cultured in 21.8% of ESI in the mupirocin group, and in only 6.7% in the gentamicin group (p<0.01). Peritonitis rates were lower using gentamicin cream, 0.17 episode/patient-year compared with mupirocin, 0.39 episode/patient-year (p<0.01). With multivariate analysis, only gentamicin exit-site use was a significant predictor for lower catheter infection rate.

CONCLUSION

Prolonged use of mupirocin for ESI-prophylaxis is associated with the emergence of mupirocin-resistant S. aureus. Gentamicin cream is superior to mupirocin ointment in the prevention of PD catheter infections.

[Peritoneal dialysis from the beginnings up to today: which developments of the last decades were important?]

During the past years new developments in peritoneal dialysis (PD) technique have resulted in continuous improvement of patient outcome. The importance of salt and fluid balance, residual renal function and peritoneal glucose load are of increasing interest, whereas small solute clearances have lost importance. In patients with high peritoneal transport rates automated PD (APD) is indicated. However, APD can also be chosen as initial PD treatment since recent studies show comparable or even better survival as compared to continuous ambulatory PD patients. Alternative PD solutions improve peritoneal ultrafiltration (icodextrin), reduce peritoneal glucose load (amino acid solution, icodextrin) and protect the peritoneal membrane (solutions with low concentration of glucose degradation products). Infection risk can be reduced when using antibiotic creams, but resistances should be considered. Ongoing studies will clarify if non-antibiotic agents, e.g. medihoney, are effective in preventing PD-associated infections. Due to these improvements PD and hemodialysis have become equivalent treatments.

Staphylococcal decolonisation: an effective strategy for prevention of infection?

Staphylococcus aureus decolonisation--treatment to eradicate staphylococcal carriage--is often considered as a measure to prevent S aureus infection. The most common approach to decolonisation has been intranasal application of mupirocin either alone or in combination with antiseptic soaps or systemic antimicrobial agents. Some data support the use of decolonisation in surgical patients colonised with S aureus, particularly in those undergoing cardiothoracic procedures. Although this intervention has been associated with low rates of postoperative S aureus infection, whether overall rates of infection are also decreased is unclear. Patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis might benefit from decolonisation, although repeated courses of treatment are needed, and the effects are modest. Eradication of meticillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) carriage has generally been difficult, and the role of decolonisation as an MRSA infection control measure is uncertain. The efficacy of decolonisation of patients with community-associated MRSA has not been established, and the routine use of decolonisation of non-surgical patients is not supported by data.

Prevention of peritoneal dialysis-related infections

Despite substantial advances in peritoneal dialysis (PD) as a renal replacement modality, PD-related infection remains an important cause of morbidity, technique failure, and mortality. This review describes the microbiology and outcomes of PD peritonitis and catheter infection, followed by a discussion of several strategies that may reduce the risk of PD-related infections. Strategies that are reviewed include use of antibiotics at the time of PD catheter insertion, selection of PD catheter design and insertion technique, patient training, PD connectology, exit site prophylaxis, periprocedural prophylaxis, fungal prophylaxis, and choice of PD solutions.

Mupirocin for preventing exit-site infection and peritonitis in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis

OBJECTIVES

Recently, there have been increasing concerns about the emergence of mupirocin resistance and increased infections due to lowered inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus. We conducted this systemic analysis to find out whether the application of mupirocin was effective for the prevention of exit-site infection (ESI) and peritonitis in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD).

METHODS

Recruited studies met the following criteria: they were randomized controlled trials or historical cohort studies; subjects consisted of adults (age, >or= 18 years) undergoing PD; mupirocin treatment was administered to the therapy group and placebo or no treatment was administered to the control group. The primary extracted data were the difference in the episodes of ESI and peritonitis S. aureus or other organisms among treatment and control groups. Results. Fourteen studies described in 13 articles and a total of 1,233 patients versus 1,217 controls were included in the analysis. Of the 13 articles, 6 were newly published articles that had not been analysed previously and 3 were randomized controlled trials. The application of mupirocin decreased the risk by 72% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.60-0.81] in ESI and by 70% (95% CI 0.52-0.81) in peritonitis due to S. aureus among all patients undergoing PD. Treatment of mupirocin reduced the risks of ESI and peritonitis due to all organisms by 57% (95% CI: 0.46-0.66) and 41% (95% CI: 0.24-0.54), respectively. Based on the six newly published articles, the reduced risk rate for mupirocin therapy was found to be 80% (95% CI: 0.39-0.93, P = 0.004) in ESI and 91% (95% CI: 0.72-0.97, P < 0.0001) in peritonitis due to S. aureus; 70% (95% CI: 0.47-0.82, P < 0.0001) in ESI and 42% (95% CI: 0.25-0.55, P < 0.0001) in peritonitis due to all organisms among mupirocin-treated and -untreated subjects. Based on the three randomized controlled trials, ESI and peritonitis due to S. aureus were found to be reduced by 73% (95% CI: 0.63-0.80, P < 0.0001) and 40% (95% CI: 0.17-0.56, P = 0.002), respectively. Interestingly, although mupirocin treatment can reduce the risk rate of ESI by 46% (95% CI: 0.35-0.55, P < 0.00001), it cannot decrease the risk rate of peritonitis due to all organisms (P = 0.56).

CONCLUSIONS

Mupirocin prophylaxis was effective on preventing ESI and peritonitis due to S. aureus and other organisms in PD patients.

Exit-Site Care in Austrian Peritoneal Dialysis Centers — a Nationwide Survey

Background

Catheter-associated infections markedly contribute to treatment failure in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. There is much controversy surrounding prophylactic strategies to prevent these infections.

Methods

In this nationwide multicenter study we analyzed strategies to prevent catheter-associated infections as performed in Austrian PD centers in 2006. A questionnaire was sent to all 23 PD centers in Austria.

Results

Ten different catheter models were used in the 332 patients being treated in the 23 Austrian PD centers. Systemic antibiotics prior to catheter placement were given by 17 of the 23 PD centers (glycopeptides, n = 7; cephalosporins, n = 10). Nasal swabs were taken preoperatively by 17 PD centers; nasal Staphylococcus aureus carriers were treated prophylactically with mupirocin cream in 15 of these centers. Dressing change was routinely performed in 318 of 332 chronic PD patients (nonocclusive film dressing, n = 58; gauze dressing, n = 260). Disinfectants for chronic exit-site care included povidone iodine ( n = 155), sodium hypochlorite ( n = 31), povidone iodine + sodium hypochlorite together ( n = 102), and octenidine dihydrochloride/phenoxyethanol ( n = 17). Water+non-disinfectant soap or 0.9% sodium chloride was administered as a cleansing agent to the exit site by 27 patients. Routine S. aureus screening (nasal and/or exit-site swabs) in chronic PD patients was performed in 12 PD centers; carriers were treated with mupirocin cream in 11 of these centers. Dialysis staff members were screened for S. aureus in 8 PD centers and spouses were screened for S. aureus in 5 PD centers. The overall exit-site infection rate was 1 episode/43.9 patient-months, tunnel infection rate was 1 episode/88.9 patient-months, and peritonitis rate was 1 episode/51.0 patient-months. Patients of centers that have installed a prophylaxis protocol for treating S. aureus carriers had lower mean infection rates compared with those not using such a protocol.

Conclusion

Various individual prophylactic strategies are used to prevent catheter-associated infections in Austrian PD centers. Infection rates are within the range reported in the literature. There is still scope for improvement in some centers ( e.g., by establishing a prophylaxis protocol).

Prevention of infectious complications in peritoneal dialysis: best demonstrated practices

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) related infections continue to be a serious complication for PD patients. Peritonitis can be associated with pain, hospitalization and catheter loss as well as a risk of death. Peritonitis risk is not evenly spread across the PD population or programs. Very low rates of peritonitis in a program are possible if close attention is paid to the causes of peritonitis and protocols implemented to reduce the risk of infection. Protocols to decrease infection risk in PD patients include proper catheter placement, exit-site care that includes Staphylococcus aureus prophylaxis, careful training of patients with periodic retraining, treatment of contamination, and prevention of procedure-related and fungal peritonitis. Extensive data have been published on the use of antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent exit site infections. There are fewer data on training methods of patients to prevent infection risk. Quality improvement programs with continuous monitoring of infections, both of the catheter exit site and peritonitis, are important to decrease the PD related infections in PD programs. Continuous review of every episode of infection to determine the root cause of the event should be routine in PD programs. Further research is needed examining approaches to decrease infection risk.

Prophylactic intranasal mupirocin ointment in the treatment of peritonitis in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic intranasal mupirocin for peritonitis in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). A total of 49 patients undergoing CAPD for at least 6 mo were followed for 1 year. A nasal smear was obtained from each patient at the beginning and end of the study. Intranasal mupirocin ointment was administered to the nares twice daily for 5 d every 4 wk in the mupirocin group. The frequency of Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriage was similar in both groups at the beginning, and S aureus was eradicated in 56.5% of patients in the mupirocin group; 29% of patients in the control group had negative nasal smear culture findings at the end of the study. Peritonitis episodes occurred at rates of 4.3% in the mupirocin group and 4.1% in the control group (P>.05). Prophylactic administration of intranasal mupirocin ointment was ineffective in reducing episodes of peritonitis.

Treatment and outcome of CPD-associated peritonitis

CPD-associated peritonitis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality for ESRD patients maintained on CPD therapy. The percentage of ESRD patients maintained on CPD therapy is declining. The reasons are unclear, but may be due to concerns about CPD-associated peritonitis. The incidence of CPD-associated peritonitis has decreased largely attributed to technical advances and the identification of risk factors including exit-site infection, colonization with Staphylococcus aureus and depression. The typical spectrum of organisms causing peritonitis include gram-positive organisms (67%), gram-negative organisms (28%), fungi (2.5%) or anaerobic organisms (2.5%). Culture-negative episodes do occur: up to 20% of the episodes of peritonitis in some series are culture-negative. The treatment of CPD associated peritonitis is rather standardized with current recommendations by the International Society of Peritoneal Dialysis universally adopted. Approximately 80% of the patients developing peritonitis will respond to antimicrobial therapy and remain on CPD therapy, while 10 to 15% of the patients require catheter removal and transfer to hemodialysis. Approximately 6% of the patients expire as a result of peritonitis. The outcome is different based on organism with gram-negative and fungal episodes having a worse outcome than gram-positive episodes. The development of CPD-associated peritonitis can be linked to traditional risk factors such as exit-site infection and poor technique. Bacterial biofilm has also been suggested as a cause of peritonitis. Our current antimicrobial protocols may not permit adequate dosing to penetrate the biofilm and be a reason for recurrent or repeat episodes of peritonitis. It is important that we improve our understanding of factors responsible for the development and outcome of CPD-associated peritonitis in order for this renal replacement therapy to remain a viable option for patients with ESRD.

Transmission and epidemiology of MRSA: current perspectives

Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive bacterium that developed resistance to the penicillin derivative methicillin. Subsequently, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) emerged as a bacterium that became less susceptible to the actions of methicillin and thus developed the ability to colonize and cause life-threatening infections. Globally, MRSA continues to cause hospital-acquired infections which are becoming difficult to treat owing to increasing glycopeptide resistance and the increasing development of community-associated MRSA. Nurses caring for patients in both hospital and community settings should be able to acknowledge the importance of MRSA, the difficulties of treating the bacterium and the need to comprehend and adhere to universal precautions that are important in the prevention of transmission of MRSA.

Staphylococcus aureus colonization and nosocomial infections: Implications for prevention

Colonization with Staphylococcus aureus is a risk factor for invasive S. aureus infections. Intranasal mupirocin has effectively eradicated S. aureus colonization and appears to prevent S. aureus nosocomial infections in some patient populations. In hospitals and communities where mupirocin use has been widespread, resistance to the drug has emerged. New strategies and agents are needed if we want to significantly decrease the risk of S. aureus infections.