Rhabdomyolysis in Ebola Virus Disease. Results of an Observational Study in a Treatment Center in Guinea

Rhabdomyolysis, Acute Kidney Injury, and Mortality in Ebola Virus Disease: Retrospective Analysis of Cases From the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, 2019

BACKGROUND

Skeletal muscle injury in Ebola virus disease (EVD) has been reported, but its association with morbidity and mortality remains poorly defined.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients admitted to 2 EVD treatment units over an 8-month period in 2019 during an EVD epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

RESULTS

An overall 333 patients (median age, 30 years; 58% female) had at least 1 creatine kinase (CK) measurement (n = 2229; median, 5/patient [IQR, 1-11]). Among patients, 271 (81%) had an elevated CK level (>380 U/L); 202 (61%) had rhabdomyolysis (CK >1000 IU/L); and 45 (14%) had severe rhabdomyolysis (≥5000 U/L). Among survivors, the maximum CK level was a median 1600 (IQR, 550-3400), peaking 3.4 days after admission (IQR, 2.3-5.5) and decreasing thereafter. Among fatal cases, the CK rose monotonically until death, with a median maximum CK level of 2900 U/L (IQR, 1500-4900). Rhabdomyolysis at admission was an independent predictor of acute kidney injury (adjusted odds ratio, 2.2 [95% CI, 1.2-3.8]; P = .0065) and mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.03-2.9]; P = .037).

CONCLUSIONS

Rhabdomyolysis is associated with acute kidney injury and mortality in patients with EVD. These findings may inform clinical practice by identifying laboratory monitoring priorities and highlighting the importance of fluid management.

Ebola virus disease in children: epidemiology, pathogenesis, management, and prevention

Ebola disease is a severe disease with extremely high case-fatality rates ranging from 28-100%. Observations made during the 2013-2016 West African epidemic improved our understanding of the clinical course of Ebola disease and accelerated the study of therapeutic and preventative strategies. The epidemic also highlighted the unique challenges associated with providing optimal care for children during Ebola disease outbreaks. In this review, we outline current understanding of Ebola disease epidemiology, pathogenesis, management, and prevention, highlighting data pertinent to the care of children. IMPACT: In this review, we summarize recent advancements in our understanding of Ebola disease epidemiology, clinical presentation, and therapeutic and preventative strategies. We highlight recent data pertinent to the care of children and pregnant women and identify research gaps for this important emerging viral infection in children.

Virus kinetics and biochemical derangements among children with Ebolavirus disease

BACKGROUND

A paucity of data is available on virologic and biochemical characteristics of paediatric Ebolavirus disease (EVD), compared to adults.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of children (<16 years old) and a comparator group of young adults (16-44 years) from two treatment centres during the 2018-2020 EVD epidemic in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Statistical methods included chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests (dichotomous and categorical variables), Mann-Whitney U-test (continuous variables), multivariable linear regression (for determinants of admission viral load), linear mixed-effects models (for analysis of longitudinal viral load), and Cox proportional hazard models (to examine risk factors for mortality).

FINDINGS

We included 73 children and 234 adults admitted from April to October 2019. Paediatric patients commonly had electrolytes imbalances: hypokalaemia in 26/73 (36%), hyperkalaemia in 38/73 (52%), and hyponatraemia in 54/73 (74%). Hypoglycaemia occurred in 20/73 (27%), acute kidney injury in 43/73 (59%), and rhabdomyolysis in 35/73 (48%). Biochemical abnormalities were detected in a similar proportion of children and adults. The viral load (VL, log₁₀ copies/mL) at admission (7.2 versus 6.5, p=0.0001), the peak viral load (7.5 versus 6.7, p=<0.0001), and the time for viraemia clearance (16 days versus 12 days, p=<0.0001) were significantly different in children. The duration of hospital stay was prolonged in children (20 versus 16 days, p=<0.0001). Risk factors for mortality in children were: VL >7.6 log₁₀copies/mL, alanine transaminase >525 U/L, C-reactive protein >100 mg/L, blood urea nitrogen >7.5 mmol/L, rhabdomyolysis, and.acute kidney injury.

INTERPRETATION

Paediatric EVD patients, like adults, experience multiorgan dysfunction with life-threatening electrolyte imbalances, hypoglycaemia, kidney injury, liver injury, and rhabdomyolysis. Paediatric patients have significantly higher VLs throughout the course of EVD than adults.

FUNDING

This study was not funded.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Acute Kidney Injury in Sub-Saharan African Adults: A Review of the Current Literature

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a complex condition that can occur in both community and hospital settings and has many aetiologies. These aetiologies may be infectious, toxic, surgical, or related to the different management methods. Although it is a major public health problem worldwide, it must be emphasised that both its incidence and mortality rate appear to be very high in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries compared to developed countries. The profile of AKI is very different from that of more developed countries. There are no reliable statistics on the incidence of AKI in SSA. Infections (malaria, HIV, diarrhoeal, and other diseases), nephrotoxins, and obstetric and surgical complications are the main aetiologies in Africa. The management of AKI is costly and associated with high rates of prolonged hospitalisation and in-hospital mortality.

Point-of-care ultrasound in a pandemic: Practical guidance in COVID-19 units

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has stretched our healthcare system to the brink, highlighting the importance of efficient resource utilization without compromising healthcare provider safety. While advanced imaging is a great resource for diagnostic purposes, the risk of contamination and infection transmission is high and requires extensive logistical planning for intrahospital patient transport, healthcare provider safety, and post-imaging decontamination. This dilemma has necessitated the transition to more bedside imaging. More so than ever, during the current pandemic, the clinical utility and importance of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) cannot be overstressed. It allows for safe and efficient beside procedural guidance and provides front line providers with valuable diagnostic information that can be acted upon in real-time for immediate clinical decision-making. The authors have been routinely using POCUS for the management of COVID-19 patients both in the emergency department and in intensive care units turned into “COVID-units.” In this article, we review the nuances of using POCUS in a pandemic situation and maximizing diagnostic output from this bedside technology. Additionally, we review various methods and diagnostic uses of POCUS which can replace conventional imaging and bridge current literature and common clinical practices in critically ill patients. We discuss practical guidance and pertinent review of the literature for the most relevant procedural and diagnostic guidance of respiratory illness, hemodynamic decompensation, renal failure, and gastrointestinal disorders experienced by many patients admitted to COVID-units.

Severe Rhabdomyolysis in a 35-Year-old Woman with COVID-19 due to SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Case Report

BACKGROUND Rhabdomyolysis is a skeletal muscle injury that has different etiologies and can be a manifestation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Because it is a life-threatening condition, rapid diagnosis is necessary to prevent acute complications. Diagnostic criteria for rhabdomyolysis are elevated serum creatine kinase, liver enzyme levels, and myalgia. Rhabdomyolysis can easily be missed in patients with COVID-19. Herein, we report the case of a female with rhabdomyolysis as a manifestation of acute COVID-19. CASE REPORT A 35-year-old female was found to have rhabdomyolysis associated with COVID-19. Her creatine kinase and liver enzyme levels were significantly elevated. Ringer's lactate infusion was administered at a controlled rate to treat the rhabdomyolysis along with boluses of normal saline, with close monitoring of her oxygen saturation and kidney function. The patient's creatine kinase and liver enzyme levels peaked on Day 2 and then decreased. Her medical condition improved, and she was discharged on Day 4. CONCLUSIONS Our case highlights the need to monitor the creatine kinase level of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Fluid management can be challenging in patients with rhabdomyolysis due to COVID-19 because of the risk of fluid overload and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Clinicians should be aware that a significant elevation in liver enzyme levels and myalgia can be the presenting features of rhabdomyolysis in patients with COVID-19.

Association between treatment with oral third-generation cephalosporin antibiotics and mortality outcomes in Ebola virus disease: a multinational retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between oral third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic treatment and mortality in Ebola virus disease (EVD).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort studied EVD-infected patients admitted to five Ebola Treatment Units in Sierra Leone and Liberia during 2014-15. Empiric treatment with cefixime 400 mg once daily for five days was the clinical protocol; however, due to resource variability, only a subset of patients received treatment. Data on sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, malaria status and Ebola viral loads were collected. The primary outcome was mortality compared between cases treated with cefixime within 48 h of admission to those not treated within 48 h. Propensity scores were derived using clinical covariates. Mortality between treated and untreated cases was compared using propensity-matched conditional logistic regression and bootstrapped log-linear regression analyses to calculate an odds ratio (OR) and relative risk (RR), respectively, with associated 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

Of 424 cases analysed, 360 (84.9%) met the cefixime treatment definition. The mean age was 30.5 years and 40.3% were male. Median cefixime treatment duration was 4 days (IQR: 3, 5). Among cefixime-treated patients, mortality was 54.7% (95% CI: 49.6-59.8%) vs. 73.4% (95% CI: 61.5-82.7%) in untreated patients. In conditional logistic regression, mortality likelihood was significantly lower among cases receiving cefixime (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.32-0.71; P = 0.01). In the bootstrap analysis, a non-significant risk reduction was found with cefixime treatment (RR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.64-1.16, P = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

Early oral cefixime may be associated with reduced mortality in EVD and warrants further investigation.

Impact of Intravenous Fluid Therapy on Survival Among Patients With Ebola Virus Disease: An International Multisite Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Intravenous fluid (IVF) is a frequently recommended intervention in Ebola virus disease (EVD), yet its impact on patient outcomes remains unclear.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study evaluated patients with EVD admitted to 5 Ebola treatment units (ETUs) in West Africa. The primary outcome was the difference in 28-day survival between cases treated and not treated with IVF. To control for demographic and clinical factors related to both IVF exposure and survival, cases were compared using propensity score matching. To control for time-varying patient and treatment factors over the course of ETU care, a marginal structural proportional hazards model (MSPHM) with inverse probability weighting was used to assess for 28-day survival differences.

RESULTS

Among 424 EVD-positive cases with data for analysis, 354 (83.5%) were treated with IVF at some point during their ETU admission. Overall, 146 (41.3%) cases treated with IVF survived, whereas 31 (44.9%) cases not treated with any IVF survived (P = .583). Matched propensity score analysis found no significant difference in 28-day survival between cases treated and not treated with IVF during their first 24 and 48 hours of care. Adjusted MSPHM survival analyses also found no significant difference in 28-day survival for cases treated with IVF (27.3%) compared to those not treated with IVF (26.9%) during their entire ETU admission (P = .893).

CONCLUSIONS

After adjustment for patient- and treatment-specific time-varying factors, there was no significant difference in survival among patients with EVD treated with IVF as compared to those not treated with IVF.

Association between multivitamin supplementation and mortality among patients with Ebola virus disease: An international multisite cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Micronutrient supplementation is recommended in Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) care; however, there is limited data on its therapeutic effects.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients with EVD admitted to five Ebola Treatment Units (ETU) in Sierra Leone and Liberia during September 2014 to December 2015. A uniform protocol was used to guide ETU care, however, due to supply limitations, only a subset of patients received multivitamins. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and laboratory testing was collected. The outcome of interest was facility-based mortality and the primary predictor was multivitamin supplementation initiated within 48 h of admission. The multivitamin formulations included: thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and vitamins A, C, and D₃. Propensity score models (PSM) were used to match patients based on covariates associated with multivitamin administration and mortality. Mortality between cases treated and untreated within 48 h of admission were compared using generalized estimating equations to calculate relative risk with bootstrap methods employed to assess statistical significance.

RESULTS

There were 424 patients with EVD who had sufficient treatment data for analysis, of which 261 (61.6%) had daily multivitamins initiated within 48 h of admission. The mean age of the cohort was 30.5 years and 59.4% were female. In the propensity score matched analysis, mortality was 53.5% among patients receiving multivitamins and 66.2% among patients not receiving multivitamins, resulting in a relative risk for mortality of 0.81 (p = 0.03) for patients receiving multivitamins.

CONCLUSION

Early multivitamin supplementation was associated with lower overall mortality. Further research on the impact of micronutrient supplementation in EVD is warranted.

Ebola virus disease

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a severe and frequently lethal disease caused by Ebola virus (EBOV). EVD outbreaks typically start from a single case of probable zoonotic transmission, followed by human-to-human transmission via direct contact or contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated fomites. EVD has a high case-fatality rate; it is characterized by fever, gastrointestinal signs and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Diagnosis requires a combination of case definition and laboratory tests, typically real-time reverse transcription PCR to detect viral RNA or rapid diagnostic tests based on immunoassays to detect EBOV antigens. Recent advances in medical countermeasure research resulted in the recent approval of an EBOV-targeted vaccine by European and US regulatory agencies. The results of a randomized clinical trial of investigational therapeutics for EVD demonstrated survival benefits from two monoclonal antibody products targeting the EBOV membrane glycoprotein. New observations emerging from the unprecedented 2013-2016 Western African EVD outbreak (the largest in history) and the ongoing EVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have substantially improved the understanding of EVD and viral persistence in survivors of EVD, resulting in new strategies toward prevention of infection and optimization of clinical management, acute illness outcomes and attendance to the clinical care needs of patients.

Modeling Challenges of Ebola Virus-Host Dynamics during Infection and Treatment

Mathematical modeling of Ebola virus (EBOV)-host dynamics during infection and treatment in vivo is in its infancy due to few studies with frequent viral kinetic data, lack of approved antiviral therapies, and limited insight into the timing of EBOV infection of cells and tissues throughout the body. Current in-host mathematical models simplify EBOV infection by assuming a single homogeneous compartment of infection. In particular, a recent modeling study assumed the liver as the largest solid organ targeted by EBOV infection and predicted that nearly all cells become refractory to infection within seven days of initial infection without antiviral treatment. We compared our observations of EBOV kinetics in multiple anatomic compartments and hepatocellular injury in a critically ill patient with Ebola virus disease (EVD) with this model's predictions. We also explored the model's predictions, with and without antiviral therapy, by recapitulating the model using published inputs and assumptions. Our findings highlight the challenges of modeling EBOV-host dynamics and therapeutic efficacy and emphasize the need for iterative interdisciplinary efforts to refine mathematical models that might advance understanding of EVD pathogenesis and treatment.

Evidence-Based Clinical Management of Ebola Virus Disease and Epidemic Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers

The 2014 to 2016 Ebola virus disease outbreak underscored the threat posed by hemorrhagic fevers. Filoviral outbreaks have been identified since 1967, but data collection has remained sparse, limiting current knowledge of these illnesses. Documentation of objective physical signs and laboratory parameters and appropriate clinical management are connected and interdependent. Implementing both is necessary to improve outcomes. Clinical features include severe volume depletion due to diarrhea and vomiting, shock, rhabdomyolysis, and metabolic disturbances. Overt hemorrhage is uncommon. Point-of-care devices and inexpensive electronic equipment enable better monitoring and record keeping in resource-limited settings.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of patient data from the West Africa (2013-16) Ebola virus disease epidemic

BACKGROUND

Over 28 000 individuals were infected with Ebola virus during the West Africa (2013-2016) epidemic, yet there has been criticism of the lack of robust clinical descriptions of Ebola virus disease (EVD) illness from that outbreak.

OBJECTIVES

To perform a meta-analysis of published data from the epidemic to describe the clinical presentation, evolution of disease, and predictors of mortality in individuals with EVD. To assess the quality and utility of published data for clinical and public health decision-making.

DATA SOURCES

Primary articles available in PubMed and published between January 2014 and May 2017.

ELIGIBILITY

Studies that sequentially enrolled individuals hospitalized for EVD and that reported acute clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We performed meta-analyses using random-effect models and assessed heterogeneity using the I2 method. We assessed data representativeness by comparing meta-analysis estimates with WHO aggregate data. We examined data utility by examining the availability and compatibility of data sets.

RESULTS

In all, 3653 articles were screened and 34 articles were included, representing 16 independent cohorts of patients (18 overlapping cohorts) and at least 6168 individuals. The pooled estimate for case fatality rate was 51% (95% CI 46%-56%). However, pooling of estimates for clinical presentation, progression, and predictors of mortality in individuals with EVD were hampered by significant heterogeneity, and inadequate data on clinical progression. Our assessment of data quality found that heterogeneity was largely unexplained, and data availability and compatibility were poor.

CONCLUSIONS

We have quantified a missed opportunity to generate reliable estimates of the clinical manifestations of EVD during the West Africa epidemic. Clinical data standards and data capture platforms are urgently needed.

Vitamin A Supplementation Was Associated with Reduced Mortality in Patients with Ebola Virus Disease during the West African Outbreak

BACKGROUND

Micronutrient supplementation is recommended in Ebola virus disease (EVD); however, there are limited data on therapeutic impacts of specific micronutrients.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between vitamin A supplementation and mortality in EVD.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort included patients with EVD admitted to 5 International Medical Corps Ebola Treatment Units (ETUs) in 2 countries during 2014-2015. Protocolized treatments with micronutrients were used at all ETUs: however, because of resource constraints, only a subset of patients received vitamin A. Standardized data on demographics, clinical characteristics, malaria status, and Ebola viral loads (cycle threshold values) were collected. The outcome of interest was mortality between cases treated with 200,000 IU of vitamin A on care days 1 and/or 2, and those not. Propensity scores based on the first 48 h of care were derived using covariates of age, ETU duration, malaria status, cycle threshold values, and clinical symptoms. Patients were matched 1:1 using nearest neighbors with replacement. Mortality between cases treated and not treated with vitamin A was compared using generalized estimating equations to calculate RR with associated 95% CI.

RESULTS

There were 424 cases analyzed, of which 330 (77.8%) were treated with vitamin A. The mean age was 30.5 y and 40.3% were men. The most common symptoms were diarrhea (85.6%), anorexia (80.7%), and abdominal pain (76.9%). Mortality proportions among cases treated and not treated with vitamin A were 55.0% and 71.9%, respectively. In the propensity-matched analysis, mortality was significantly lower among cases receiving vitamin A (RR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.59, 0.99; P = 0.041). In a subgroup analysis of patients treated with multivitamins already containing vitamin A, additional vitamin A supplementation did not impact mortality.

CONCLUSION

Early vitamin A supplementation was associated with reduced mortality in patients with EVD, and should be further studied and considered for use in future epidemics.

Relationship Between Viremia and Specific Organ Damage in Ebola Patients: A Cohort Study

Background

Pathogenesis of Ebola virus disease remains poorly understood. We used concomitant determination of routine laboratory biomarkers and Ebola viremia to explore the potential role of viral replication in specific organ damage.

Methods

We recruited patients with detectable Ebola viremia admitted to the EMERGENCY Organizzazione Non Governativa Organizzazione Non Lucrativa di Utilità Sociale (ONG ONLUS) Ebola Treatment Center in Sierra Leone. Repeated measure of Ebola viremia, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), bilirubin, creatine phosphokinase (CPK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), activated prothrombin time (aPTT), international normalized ratio (INR), creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were recorded. Patients were followed up from admission until death or discharge.

Results

One hundred patients (49 survivors and 51 nonsurvivors) were included in the analysis. Unadjusted analysis to compare survivors and nonsurvivors provided evidence that all biomarkers were significantly above the normal range and that the extent of these abnormalities was generally higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors. Multivariable mixed-effects models provided strong evidence for a biological gradient (suggestive of a direct role in organ damage) between the viremia levels and either ALT, AST, CPK LDH, aPTT, and INR. In contrast, no direct linear association was found between viremia and either creatinine, BUN, or bilirubin.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence to support that Ebola virus may have a direct role in muscular damage and imbalance of the coagulation system. We did not find strong evidence suggestive of a direct role of Ebola virus in kidney damage. The role of the virus in liver damage remains unclear, but our evidence suggests that acute severe liver injury is not a typical feature of Ebola virus disease.

Immune parameters and outcomes during Ebola virus disease

BACKGROUND

The West African Ebola virus epidemic from 2014-2016 highlighted the lack of knowledge about the pathogenicity of the virus and the factors responsible for outcome. A performant and rapid diagnosis is of crucial importance, as is overcoming the difficulty of providing high-quality patient management during such an extensive outbreak. Here, we propose to study the role of the immune mediators during Ebola virus disease and to define some molecules of importance in the outcome.

METHODS

Plasma from Guinean patients sampled during the outbreak were analyzed using RT-qPCR, magnetic bead assay, ELISA, and high-quality statistical analyses. We also performed a transcriptomic analysis in leukocytes samples. Therefore, we deeply characterized the immune responses involved in Ebola virus disease.

RESULTS

We evaluated the immune patterns depending on the outcome of the disease. Survivors presented an efficient and well-balanced immune response, whereas fatalities were characterized by an intense inflammatory response, overexpression of multiple cytokines, and a "chemokine storm." The plasma concentration of most of the parameters tested increased until death. Statistical analyses also allowed us to define a panel of markers highly predictive of outcome.

CONCLUSION

The immune response observed in fatalities was highly similar to that characterizing septic shock syndrome. Our results suggest that immune responses can play a major pathogenic role during severe Ebola virus infection and argue in favor of therapeutic approaches that act on both viral replication and the induction of shock syndrome.

FUNDING

French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Agence Française de Développement, and the Institut Pasteur.

Musculoskeletal manifestations of Ebola virus

The 2014 West African Ebola virus disease outbreak shocked the world as it swept through the region leaving Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone struggling to gain control. As the largest Ebola virus disease outbreak to date, there are more survivors in its wake than ever before, with a spectrum of health problems requiring management. Here we review various musculoskeletal manifestations of the virus that can occur both during and after the infection, and consider possible pathogenesis.

Ebola virus disease: Biological and diagnostic evolution from 2014 to 2017

The Ebola virus disease outbreak observed in West Africa from March 2014 to June 2016 has led to many fundamental and applied research works. Knowledge of this virus has substantially increased. Treatment of many patients in epidemic countries and a few imported cases in developed countries led to developing new diagnostic methods and to adapt laboratory organization and biosafety precautions to perform conventional biological analyses. Clinical and biological monitoring of patients infected with Ebola virus disease helped to determine severity criteria and bad prognosis markers. It also contributed to showing the possibility of viral sanctuaries in patients and the risk of transmission after recovery. After a summary of recent knowledge of environmental and clinical viral persistence, we aimed to present new diagnostic methods and other biological tests that led to highlighting the pathophysiological consequences of Ebola virus disease and its prognostic markers. We also aimed to describe our lab experience in the care of Ebola virus-infected patients, especially technical and logistical changes between 2014 and 2017.

Biochemical testing in a laboratory tent and semi-intensive care of Ebola patients on-site in a remote part of Guinea: a paradigm shift based on a bleach-sensitive point-of-care device

BACKGROUND

During the West Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak, a Belgian laboratory was deployed for supporting the Ebola treatment unit (ETU) of N'Zerekore, Guinea. Besides diagnosis of EVD and malaria, biochemical parameters were tested and used to guide supportive treatment of EVD.

METHODS

To preserve analytes stability, lithium-heparin blood samples were analyzed using the i-STAT® point-of-care testing (POCT) handheld device without the viral inactivation step. To mitigate the risk of Ebola virus transmission, assays were performed inside a portable glovebox with strict biosafety procedures.

RESULTS

Providing the medical staff with real-time biochemical data modified their therapeutic attitude, shifting from empiric to a semi-intensive laboratory-guided treatment of hydro-electrolytic disturbances, metabolic acidosis and/or impaired kidney function. As illustrated with representative EVD cases (n=8), optimized supportive treatment with intravenous fluid therapy and electrolyte replacement often helped correct these abnormalities. However, the harsh operating conditions, especially the use of bleach decontamination inside the glovebox, caused several technical failures and the final breakdown of the POCT device.

CONCLUSIONS

POCT availability resulted in a paradigm shift in laboratory practice and care delivery at the N'Zerekore ETU. We conclude that there is urgent need for novel well-designed and validated POCT devices usable by non-expert operators in high ambient temperature and limited space. These devices should withstand regular and thorough decontamination by the personnel working on-site with life-threatening pathogens and be compatible with high biosafety level procedures. Such specific users' requirements need a European validation and standardization process of proposed solutions led by the EU Standardization Committee (CEN).

Insights from clinical research completed during the west Africa Ebola virus disease epidemic

The west Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) epidemic was extraordinary in scale. Now that the epidemic has ended, it is a relevant time to examine published studies with direct relevance to clinical care and, more broadly, to examine the implications of the clinical research response mounted. Clinically relevant research includes literature detailing risk factors for and clinical manifestations of EVD, laboratory and other investigation findings in patients, experimental vaccine and therapeutic clinical trials, and analyses of survivor syndrome. In this Review, we discuss new insights from patient-oriented research completed during the west Africa epidemic, identify ongoing knowledge gaps, and suggest priorities for future research.

Clinical, virological, and biological parameters associated with outcomes of Ebola virus infection in Macenta, Guinea

BACKGROUND. The pathogenesis of Ebola virus (EBOV) disease (EVD) is poorly characterized. The establishment of well-equipped diagnostic laboratories close to Ebola treatment centers (ETCs) has made it possible to obtain relevant virological and biological data during the course of EVD and to assess their association with the clinical course and different outcomes of the disease. METHODS. We were responsible for diagnosing EBOV infection in patients admitted to two ETCs in forested areas of Guinea. The pattern of clinical signs was recorded, and an etiological diagnosis was established by RT-PCR for EBOV infection or a rapid test for malaria and typhoid fever. Biochemical analyses were also performed. RESULTS. We handled samples from 168 patients between November 29, 2014, and January 31, 2015; 97 patients were found to be infected with EBOV, with Plasmodium falciparum coinfection in 18%. Overall mortality for EVD cases was 58%, rising to 86% if P. falciparum was also present. Viral load was higher in fatal cases of EVD than in survivors, and fatal cases were associated with higher aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), C-reactive protein (CRP), and IL-6 levels. Furthermore, regardless of outcome, EVD was characterized by higher creatine kinase (CPK), amylase, and creatinine levels than in febrile patients without EVD, with higher blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels in fatal cases of EVD only. CONCLUSION. These findings suggest that a high viral load at admission is a marker of poor EVD prognosis. In addition, high AST, ALT, CRP, and IL-6 levels are associated with a fatal outcome of EVD. Damage to the liver and other tissues, with massive rhabdomyolysis and, probably, acute pancreatitis, is associated with EVD and correlated with disease severity. Finally, biochemical analyses provide substantial added value at ETCs, making it possible to improve supportive rehydration and symptomatic care for patients. FUNDING. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Agence Française de Développement, and Institut Pasteur.

Characteristics and Outcomes of Pediatric Patients With Ebola Virus Disease Admitted to Treatment Units in Liberia and Sierra Leone: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The clinical and virologic characteristics of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in children have not been thoroughly documented.

METHODS

Consecutive children aged <18 years with real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-confirmed EVD were enrolled retrospectively in 5 Ebola treatment units in Liberia and Sierra Leone in 2014/2015. Data collection and medical management were based on standardized International Medical Corps protocols. We performed descriptive statistics, multivariate logistic regression, and Kaplan-Meier survival analyses.

RESULTS

Of 122 children enrolled, the median age was 7 years and one-third were aged <5 years. The female-to-male ratio was 1.3. The most common clinical features at triage and during hospitalization were fever, weakness, anorexia, and diarrhea, although 21% of patients were initially afebrile and 6 patients remained afebrile. Bleeding was rare at presentation (5%) and manifested subsequently in fewer than 50%. The overall case fatality rate was 57%. Factors associated with death in bivariate analyses were age <5 years, bleeding at any time during hospitalization, and high viral load. After adjustment with logistic regression modeling, the odds of death were 14.8-fold higher if patients were aged <5 years, 5-fold higher if the patient had any evidence of bleeding, and 5.2-fold higher if EVD RT-PCR cycle threshold value was ≤20. Plasmodium parasitemia had no impact on EVD outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Age <5 years, bleeding, and high viral loads were poor prognostic indicators of children with EVD. Research to understand mechanisms of these risk factors and the impact of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance will improve health outcomes.

[Ebola virus disease: Clinical presentation, prognosis and treatment]

The clinical spectrum of Ebola virus disease (EVD) ranges from very serious forms with organ failure and death within days to paucisymptomatic forms and perhaps even asymptomatic. The authors propose a focus on the clinical manifestations of EVD, on prognosis and on therapeutic aspects (excluding resuscitation). This work extracts from the literature the main data gathered during the 2014-2015 epidemic that raged in Guinea Conakry and Sierra Leone. These two countries, even if they are separated by a border, are one and the same population base. The characteristics of the epidemic in Liberia have not been analyzed. The authors have treated EVD patients in the health workers treatment center of Conakry and enrich this work about their personal experience.

Clinical features of suspected Ebola cases referred to the Moyamba ETC, Sierra Leone: challenges in the later stages of the 2014 outbreak

Background

The last ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak has been the most important since 1976. EVD cases decreased drastically in Sierra Leone at the beginning of 2015. We aim to determine the clinical findings and evolution of patients admitted to an Ebola treatment center (ETC) during the epidemic’s late phase.

Methods

We analyze retrospectively data of patients admitted to the Moyamba ETC (December 2014-March 2015). Patients were classified in EVD or non-EVD patients according to the results of Ebola virus real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (ZAIRE-RT-PCR).

Results

Seventy-five patients were included, 41.3 % were positive for ZAIRE-RT-PCR. More women (68 % vs 28 %, p = 0.001) were EVD-positive. More EVD patients had previous contact with an Ebola patient (74.2 % vs 36.3 %, p < 0.001). At admission, EVD patients were more likely to have fatigue (96.7 %, p < 0.001), diarrhea (67.7 %, p = 0.002), and muscle pain (61.3 %, p = 0.009); but only objective fevers in 35.5 % of EVD patients. The most reliable criteria for diagnosis were: contact with an Ebola patient plus three WHO symptoms (LR + =3.7, 95 % CI = 1.9–7.3), and positive contact (LR + =2.3, 95 % CI = 1.15–4.20). Only 45.2 % of EVD patients developed fevers during stay, but 75 % developed gastrointestinal symptoms. Non-EVD patients had gastrointestinal problems (33 %), respiratory conditions (26.6 %), and others such as malaria, HIV or tuberculosis with a mortality rate of 11.4 %. vs 58 % in EVD group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

More non-EVD patients were admitted in the outbreak’s late phases. The low percentage of initial fever highlights the need to emphasize the epidemiological information. EVD patients presented new symptoms getting worse and requiring closer follow-up. Diagnoses of non-EVD patients were diverse with a remarkable mortality, presenting a challenge for the health system.

Preparation of an intensive care unit in France for the reception of a confirmed case of Ebola virus infection

The current Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in West Africa is a major challenge for the worldwide medical community. On April 29th 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared 26,277 infected cases; among them, 10,884 have deceased. The epidemic is still ongoing, particularly in Sierra Leone. It is now clear that northern countries will be implicated in the care of EVD patients, both in the field and back at home. Because of the severity of EVD, a fair amount of patients may require intensive care. It is highly probable that intensive care would be able to significantly reduce the mortality linked with EVD. The preparation of a modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to treat an EVD patient in good conditions requires time and specific equipment. The cornerstone of this preparation includes two main goals: treating the patient and protecting healthcare providers. Staff training is time consuming and must be performed far in advance of patient arrival. To be efficient, preparation should be planned at a national level with help from public authorities, as was the case in France during the summer of 2014. Due to the severity of the disease, the high risk of transmission and scarce knowledge on EVD treatment, our propositions are necessarily original and innovative. Our review includes four topics: a brief report on the actual outbreak, where to receive and hospitalize the patients, the specific organization of the ICU and finally ethical aspects.