Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Children: Changes During Eighteen Years

Risk Factors for Persistent Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Children

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of pediatric bacteremia. Persistent S. aureus bacteremia (SAB) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in adults and children. Risk factors for S. aureus bacteremia have been well established, but there is a limited understanding of the factors that contribute to the development of persistent SAB in children.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective secondary analysis of a prospective observational study of pediatric patients hospitalized with S. aureus infection over a 3.5-year period at a large, quaternary, children's hospital.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifty-nine children with confirmed S. aureus infection were enrolled in the study. Sixty-five of these were found to have bacteremia, with 28 (43%) developing persistent bacteremia. Patients with persistent SAB were culture-positive for a median of 3.5 days compared with 1 day for those without (P ≤ 0.001). Children with persistent SAB were more likely to have an identified osteoarticular source of infection (93%, n = 26 vs. 62%, n = 23; P = 0.008) and had a shorter median duration to culture positivity than those without persistent SAB (16 hours vs. 20 hours; P ≤ 0.001). In addition, children with persistent SAB had higher median values of presenting erythrocyte sedimentation rate, peak erythrocyte sedimentation rate, presenting C-reactive protein and peak C-reactive protein. Not surprisingly, hospital length of stay was longer in children with persistent SAB compared with those without.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that a shorter time to culture positivity, osteoarticular infection, and higher presenting and peak values for select inflammatory markers are potential risk factors for persistent SAB in children.

The effects of delayed appropriate antimicrobial therapy on children with Staphylococcus aureus blood infection

Early appropriate antimicrobial therapy plays a critical role for patients with Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection (SAB). We aim to determine the optimal time-window for appropriate antimicrobial therapy and evaluate the effects of delayed therapy on adverse clinical outcomes (in-hospital mortality, sepsis, and septic shock) in children with SAB by propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. Receiver-operating characteristic was used to determine the cut-off point of the time to appropriate therapy (TTAT), the patients were divided into timely and delayed appropriate antimicrobial therapy (delayed therapy) groups accordingly. The PSM was used to balance the characteristics between the two groups, controlling the effects of potential confounders. Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox proportional hazards regression were applied to the matched groups to analyze the association between delayed therapy and clinical outcomes. Inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score covariate adjustment were also performed to investigate the sensitivity of the results under different propensity score-based approaches. In total, 247 patients were included in this study. The optimal cut-off point of TTAT was identified as 6.4 h, with 85.0% sensitivity and 69.2% specificity (AUC 0.803, 95% confidence interval 0.702-0.904). Eighty-seven (35.22%) of the 247 patients who received delayed therapy (TTAT ≥ 6.4 h) had higher in-hospital mortality (19.54% vs 1.88%, p < 0.001), higher incidences of sepsis (44.83% vs 15.00%, p < 0.001) and septic shock (32.18% vs 6.25%, p < 0.001) when compared to timely therapy (TTAT < 6.4 h) patients. After PSM analysis, a total of 134 episodes (67 in each of the two matched groups) were further analyzed. No statistically significant difference was observed in in-hospital mortality between delayed and timely -therapy groups (log-rank test, P = 0.157). Patients with delayed therapy had a higher incidence of sepsis or septic shock than those with timely therapy (log-rank test, P = 0.009; P = 0.018, respectively). Compared to the timely-therapy group, the hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval in delayed-therapy group were 2.512 (1.227-5.144, P = 0.012) for sepsis, 3.109 (1.166-8.290, P = 0.023) for septic shock.    Conclusion: Appropriate therapy delayed 6.4 h may increase the incidence of sepsis and septic shock, with similar in-hospital mortality in patients with SAB. What is Known: • Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a major cause of bloodstream infections in children. Undoubtedly, early antimicrobial application plays a critical role in the treatment of children with Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections (SAB). • However, rapid, and aggressive administration of antimicrobials may lead to the overuse of these drugs and the emergence of multidrug-resistant microorganisms. Therefore, it is crucial to determine the optimal time-window for appropriate antimicrobial administration in children with SAB. Unfortunately, the optimal time-window for appropriate antimicrobial administration in children with SAB remains unclear. What is New: • Determining the optimal time-window for appropriate antimicrobial administration in patients with matched data variables is particularly important. The Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis effectively controls for confounding factors to a considerable extent when assessing the impact of treatment, thereby approximating the effects observed in randomized controlled trials. • To our knowledge, this is the first study using PSM method to assess the effects of delayed appropriate antimicrobial therapy on adverse outcomes in children with SAB. In low-risk populations with SAB, a delay of 6.4 h in appropriate therapy might increase the occurrence rate for sepsis and septic shock; however, no correlation has been found between this delay and an increased risk for hospital mortality.

The molecular epidemiology and clinical implication of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) sequence types in pediatric bacteremia: a restrospective observational study, 2016-2021

BACKGROUND

While there is a high burden of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections among pediatric patients, studies on the molecular epidemiology of MRSA infections in Korean children since the 2010s are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the molecular genotypes and clinical characteristics of MRSA isolates from children with MRSA bacteremia at Asan Medical Center Children's Hospital from 2016 to 2021.

METHODS

Clinical data were retrospectively reviewed, and the molecular types of MRSA were determined using multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and Staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) typing.

RESULTS

The overall methicillin resistance rate of S. aureus bacteremia was 44.8% (77/172); 49.5% in the period 2016-2018 (period 1) and 37.3% in the period 2019-2021 (period 2) (P = 0.116). Community-acquired infections accounted for only 3.9% of cases. The predominant ST group was ST72 group (67.6%), followed by ST5 group (18.9%) and ST1 group (5.4%). The proportion of ST5 was significantly lower in period 2 compared to period 1 (P = 0.02). Compared to the ST5 and ST1 groups, the ST72 group exhibited lower overall antibiotic resistance and multidrug-resistant (MDR) rates (12.0% [6/50] in ST72 group vs. 100.0% [14/14] in ST5 group vs. 50.0% [2/4] in ST1 group; P < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the ST1 group was an independent risk factor for 30-day all-cause mortality (aOR, 44.12; 95% CI, 3.46-562.19).

CONCLUSION

The ST72-MRSA strain remained the most frequently isolated genotype in Korean children, while the ST1 group emerged as an independent risk factor for 30-day all-cause mortality in pediatric MRSA bacteremia. Ongoing efforts to uncover the evolving epidemiology of MRSA are essential for developing effective strategies for prevention and treatment.

Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in the Pediatric Emergency Department and Predictors of Poor Outcome

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus has become the leading cause of bacteremia among previously healthy children older than 5 years.

METHODS

We aimed to describe the infants presenting to pediatric emergency departments and diagnosed with S. aureus bacteremia (SAB) and identify predictors (clinical and laboratory variables) of poor outcome (complications, sequelae or death). We performed an observational study and subanalysis of a multicenter prospective registry, including every patient under the age of 18 years with a positive blood culture obtained at any of the 22 participating Spanish pediatric emergency departments between 2011 and 2016. We considered chronic diseases, immunosuppressive treatment and the presence of mechanical devices as risk factors for SAB.

RESULTS

Of the 229 patients with SAB, 176 (76.9%) were previously healthy, 192 (83.8%) had a normal pediatric assessment triangle and 158 (69.0%) had an associated focal infection (mainly osteoarticular infection, skin and soft tissue infection and pneumonia). Fifty-three patients (23.1%) had 1 or more risk factors for SAB. Thirty-one (13.5%) presented a poor outcome, including 4 deaths (1.7%). A poor outcome was more common in patients with SAB risk factors [odds ratio (OR): 7.0; 95% CI: 3.2-15.4], abnormal PAT (OR: 5.9; 95% CI: 2.6-13.3), elevated procalcitonin (OR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.05-1.3) and C-reactive protein, the latter being the only independent predictor of poor outcome (OR: 1.01; 95% CI: 1.01-1.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, children with SAB are previously healthy, appear well, and have an associated focal infection. One of 7 had a poor outcome, with C-reactive protein being the only predictor identified.

Predictive models for sepsis in children with Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The presence of Staphylococcus aureus in the bloodstream can lead to the development of sepsis; however, the severity and risk factors of the systemic inflammatory response to Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections were unclear. This study is aimed to build a model to predict the risk of sepsis in children with Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of hospitalized pediatric patients diagnosed with Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections was performed between January 2013 and December 2019. Each patient was assessed using the pediatric version of the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (pSOFA) within 24 h of blood culture collection. A nomogram based on logistic regression models was constructed to predict the risk factors for sepsis in children with Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections. It was validated using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC).

RESULTS

Of the 94 patients included in the study, 35 cases (37.2%) developed sepsis. The pSOFA scores ranged from 0 to 8, with 35 patients having a pSOFA score of ≥ 2. Six children (6.4%) died within 30 days, who were all from the sepsis group and had different pSOFA scores. The most common organs involved in sepsis in children with staphylococcal bloodstream infections were the neurologic system (68.6%), respiratory system (48.6%), and coagulation system (45.7%). Hospital-acquired infections (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-7.2), implanted catheters (aOR, 10.4; 95% CI, 3.8-28.4), procalcitonin level ≥ 1.7 ng/mL (aOR, 15.4; 95% CI, 2.7-87.1), and underlying diseases, especially gastrointestinal malformations (aOR, 14.0; 95% CI, 2.9-66.7) were associated with Staphylococcus aureus sepsis. However, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection was not a risk factor for sepsis. The nomogram had high predictive accuracy for the estimation of sepsis risk, with an AUC of 0.85.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a predictive model for sepsis in children with Staphylococcus aureus infection.

Staphylococcus aureus sequence type (ST) 45, ST30, and ST15 in the gut microbiota of healthy infants - persistence and population counts in relation to ST and virulence gene carriage

Staphylococcus aureus colonizes the anterior nares, and also the gut, particularly in infants. S. aureus is divided into lineages, termed clonal complexes (CCs), which comprise closely related sequence types (STs). While CC30 and CC45 predominate among nasal commensals, their prevalence among gut-colonizing S. aureus is unknown. Here, 67 gut commensal S. aureus strains from 49 healthy Swedish infants (aged 3 days to 12 months) were subjected to multi-locus sequence typing. The STs of these strains were related to their virulence gene profiles, time of persistence in the microbiota, and fecal population counts. Three STs predominated: ST45 (22% of the strains); ST15 (21%); and ST30 (18%). In a logistic regression, ST45 strains showed higher fecal population counts than the others, independent of virulence gene carriage. The lower fecal counts of ST15 were linked to the carriage of fib genes (encoding fibrinogen-binding proteins), while those of ST30 were linked to fib and sea (enterotoxin A) carriage. While only 11% of the ST15 and ST30 strains were acquired after 2 months of age, this was true of 53% of the ST45 strains (p = 0.008), indicating that the former may be less fit for establishment in a more mature microbiota. None of the ST45 strains was transient (persisting < 3 weeks), and persistent ST45 strains colonized for significantly longer periods than persistent strains of other STs (mean, 34 vs 22 weeks, p = 0.04). Our results suggest that ST45 strains are well-adapted for commensal gut colonization in infants, reflecting yet-unidentified traits of these strains.

Bloodstream Infection in Children With Epidermolysis Bullosa

BACKGROUND

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is frequently complicated by skin infection, which can lead to bacteremia. However, bloodstream infections (BSI) in patients with EB have not been well described.

METHODS

Retrospective study of BSI in children 0-18 years with EB from a national reference unit in Spain, in 2015-2020.

RESULTS

Among 126 children with EB, we identified 37 BSI episodes in 15 patients (14 recessive dystrophic EB, 1 junctional EB). The most frequent microorganisms were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 12) and Staphylococcus aureus (n = 11). Five P. aeruginosa isolates were ceftazidime-resistant (42%), 4 of which were also resistant to meropenem and quinolones (33%). As for S. aureus, 4 (36%) were methicillin-resistant and 3 (27%) clindamycin-resistant. In 25 (68%) BSI episodes skin cultures had been performed in the previous 2 months. The most frequent isolates were also P. aeruginosa (n = 15) and S. aureus (n = 11). In 13 cases (52%), smear and blood cultures grew the same microorganism, with the same antimicrobial resistance pattern in 9 isolates. Twelve patients (10%) died during follow-up (9 RDEB and 3 JEB). BSI was the cause of death in 1 case. In patients with severe RDEB, a history of BSI was associated with higher mortality (OR 6.1, 95% CI: 1.33-27.83, P = 0.0197).

CONCLUSIONS

BSI is an important cause of morbidity in children with severe forms of EB. The most frequent microorganisms are P. aeruginosa and S. aureus, with high rates of antimicrobial resistance. Skin cultures can help guide treatment decisions in patients with EB and sepsis.

Pediatric Enterococcal Bacteremia: A 12-Year Retrospective Study in a French Pediatric Center

BACKGROUND

Enterococcal bloodstream infections (EBSIs) are rare infections in children associated with 5%-10% of mortality in previous studies. The recent evolution of antimicrobial resistance and therapies require updated data.

METHODS

We conducted an observational retrospective study between January 2008 and December 2019 describing the characteristics of children with EBSI in a French pediatric hospital. All positive Enterococcus spp. blood cultures associated with sepsis symptoms were analyzed. We also compared characteristics of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and community-acquired infections (CAIs) and described antimicrobial resistance evolution during this period.

RESULTS

In total 74 EBSI were included. Enterococcus faecalis was the most common pathogen (n = 60/74, 81%) followed by Enterococcus faecium (n = 18, 24%), including 4 enterococcal coinfections. EBSIs were mainly associated with central-line associated infection (38%), surgical site infection (14%) or urinary tract infection (11%). An underlying disease was present in 95.9%. However, 4 patients died in the month following the EBSI resulting in a 5.4%, 30-day mortality. All were HAI. HAI (84% of EBSI) was associated with longer bacteremia [31% persistent bacteremia (more than 3 days) versus 0% for CAI; P = 0.029] and more antimicrobial resistance. Amoxicillin resistance is increasing since 2013 in E. faecium (63% in 2013-2019), although high-level gentamicin resistance is stable (19%). Only 1 EBSI due to vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus was described in our cohort, who died.

CONCLUSIONS

EBSIs are rare infections in children mostly described in children with underlying disease. Healthcare-associated bacteremia is associated with higher rates of resistance and poorer prognosis, requiring the involvement of pediatric infectious disease specialists to improve management.

Rate of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pediatric emergency departments in Spain

INTRODUCTION

Staphylococcus aureus is a common germ in bacterial infections in children. The rate of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is increasing lately.

OBJECTIVES

The main aim is to know the rate of positive cultures to MRSA in Spanish pediatric emergency departments. The secondary aims are to analyse the risk factors for MRSA isolation (patient origin, history of hospitalization or surgery in the previous 90 days, antibiotherapy in the previous 60 days, presence of comorbidity, invasive devices, prior MRSA isolation) and to analyse the morbidity of these infections.

METHODOLOGY

Retrospective multicenter study (07/01/2017-06/30/2018) with review of patient histories with isolation of S. aureus in samples of any origin obtained in 8 pediatric emergency departments of the Infectious Diseases Working Group of the Spanish Society of pediatric Emergencies.

RESULTS

During this period, S. aureus was detected in 403 patients (average age 75.8 ± 59.2 months; 54.8% male): 28.8% hospital-related infections (HRI) and 71.2% community-related infections (CRI). Overall, MRSA rate was 16.6% (95% CI: 13-20.2%); 18.1% in HRI and 16.2% in CRI (p > 0.05). The highest rates of MRSA were obtained in skin abscesses (29.3%, CI 95%: 21.8-36.8%), patients not born in Spain (52%; CI 95%: 32-72%) or patients with a previous MRSA infection (90%; CI 95% 71.4-100%). 167 (41%) patients were admitted, 12 (3%) had complications and 4 (1%) suffered sequels. There were no deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall MRSA rate was one in 6 staphylococcal infections. Higher MRSA rates were detected in samples of suppurating skin injuries and in foreign children or in children with a history of previous MRSA infection. In suppurative skin lesions, early drainage is essential and the change to an antibiotic with MRSA coverage should be considered if the evolution is inadequate.

Contemporary Trends in Global Mortality of Sepsis Among Young Infants Less Than 90 Days: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective

Current knowledge on the global burden of infant sepsis is limited to population-level data. We aimed to summarize global case fatality rates (CFRs) of young infants with sepsis, stratified by gross national income (GNI) status and patient-level risk factors.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on CFRs among young infants < 90 days with sepsis. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Central, Embase, and Web of Science for studies published between January 2010 and September 2019. We obtained pooled CFRs estimates using the random effects model. We performed a univariate analysis at patient-level and a meta-regression to study the associations of gestational age, birth weight, onset of sepsis, GNI, age group and culture-proven sepsis with CFRs.

Results

The search yielded 6314 publications, of which 240 studies (N = 437,796 patients) from 77 countries were included. Of 240 studies, 99 were conducted in high-income countries, 44 in upper-middle-income countries, 82 in lower-middle-income countries, 6 in low-income countries and 9 in multiple income-level countries. Overall pooled CFR was 18% (95% CI, 17-19%). The CFR was highest for low-income countries [25% (95% CI, 7-43%)], followed by lower-middle [25% (95% CI, 7-43%)], upper-middle [21% (95% CI, 18-24%)] and lowest for high-income countries [12% (95% CI, 11-13%)]. Factors associated with high CFRs included prematurity, low birth weight, age less than 28 days, early onset sepsis, hospital acquired infections and sepsis in middle- and low-income countries. Study setting in middle-income countries was an independent predictor of high CFRs. We found a widening disparity in CFRs between countries of different GNI over time.

Conclusion

Young infant sepsis remains a major global health challenge. The widening disparity in young infant sepsis CFRs between GNI groups underscore the need to channel greater resources especially to the lower income regions.

Systematic Review Registration

[www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero], identifier [CRD42020164321].

[Rate of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pediatric emergency departments in Spain]

INTRODUCTION

Staphylococcusaureus (S. aureus) is a common germ present in bacterial infections in children. Lately, the rate of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is increasing.

OBJECTIVES

The main aim of this study is to know the rate of positive cultures to MRSA in Spanish pediatric emergency departments. The secondary aims are to analyze the risk factors for MRSA isolation (patient origin, history of hospitalization or surgery in the previous 90 days, antibiotherapy in the previous 60 days, presence of comorbidity, invasive devices, prior MRSA isolation) and to analyze the morbidity of these infections.

METHODOLOGY

Retrospective multicenter study (07/01/2017-06/30/2018) with review of patient histories with isolation of S. aureus in samples of any origin obtained in 8 pediatric emergency departments of the Infectious Diseases Working Group of the Spanish Society of Pediatric Emergencies.

RESULTS

During this period, S. aureus was detected in 403 patients (average age 75.8±59.2 months; 54.8% male): 28.8% hospital-related infections and 71.2% community-related infections. Overall, MRSA rate was 16.6% (95% CI: 13-20.2%); 18.1% in hospital-related infections and 16.2% in community-related infections (P>.05). The highest rates of MRSA were obtained in skin abscesses (29.3%, 95% CI: 21.8-36.8%), patients not born in Spain (52%; 95% CI: 32-72%) or patients with a previous MRSA infection (90%; 95% CI: 71.4-100%). 167 (41%) patients were admitted, 12 (3%) had complications and 4 (1%) suffered sequels. There were no deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall MRSA rate was one in six staphylococcal infections. Higher MRSA rates were detected in samples of suppurating skin injuries and in foreign children or in children with a history of previous MRSA infection. In suppurative skin lesions, early drainage is essential and the change to an antibiotic with MRSA coverage should be considered if the evolution is inadequate.

Impact of a Best Practice Advisory for Pediatric Patients With Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

BACKGROUND

Infectious diseases (ID) consultation and optimal antibiotic therapy improve outcomes in Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB). Data on strategies to improve adherence to these practices in children are limited.

METHODS

This was a quasi-experimental study evaluating the impact of an electronic medical record (EMR)-based best practice advisory (BPA) for SAB, recommending ID consult and optimal antibiotic therapy based on rapid mecA gene detection. Inpatients < 21 years old with SAB before (January 2015-July 2017) and after (August 2017-December 2018) BPA implementation were included. Primary outcome was receipt of ID consult. Secondary outcomes included receipt of optimal therapy, time to ID consult and optimal therapy, recurrent SAB, and 30-day all-cause mortality. ID consultation rates pre- and postimplementation were compared using interrupted time series (ITS) analysis. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for time to optimal therapy were calculated using Cox regression.

RESULTS

We included 99 SAB episodes (70 preintervention, 29 postintervention). Preintervention, 48 (68.6%) patients received an ID consult compared to 27 (93.1%) postintervention, but this was not statistically significant on ITS analysis due to a preexisting trend of increasing consultation. Median hours to optimal therapy decreased from 26.1 to 5.5 (P = .03), most notably in patients with methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) (42.2 to 10.8; P < .01). On Cox regression, BPA implementation was associated with faster time to optimal therapy (HR, 3.22 [95% CI, 1.04-10.01]).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of an EMR-based BPA for SAB resulted in faster time to optimal antibiotic therapy, particularly for patients with MSSA. ID consultation increased throughout the study period and was not significantly impacted by the BPA.

National database study of trends in bacteraemia aetiology among children and adults in Japan: a longitudinal observational study

OBJECTIVES

Domestic epidemiological studies are needed to ascertain the disease burden of bacteraemia in individual countries. This study aimed to evaluate the domestic trends in paediatric and adult bacteraemia in Japan.

SETTING

Laboratory-based surveillance was used to obtain data from 592 hospitals located throughout Japan.

PARTICIPANTS

The study was conducted using the results of 827 780 and 3 512 524 blood culture tests obtained from children and adults, respectively, between January 2010 and December 2016.

OUTCOME MEASURES

We analysed the temporal trends in specific bacterial species (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella enterica, Haemophilus influenzae, Listeria monocytogenes and Neisseria meningitidis) detected from the blood cultures of children and adults. For children aged ≤2 years, the data were analysed for each year of age. The proportions of bacteraemia-positive results among the patients were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The number of bacteraemia-positive samples over the study period was 47,125/827,855 (5.7%) in children and 959,765/3,513,885 (27.3%) in adults. S. pneumoniae was the most frequent cause of bacteraemia in children in 2010. However, after 2011, S. aureus bacteraemia was the most frequent, followed by S. pneumoniae and E. coli. E. coli bacteraemia showed significant increases in both children and adults. In children, S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae bacteraemia decreased from 2010 to 2013. However, S. pneumoniae bacteraemia case numbers stabilised from 2013, whereas H. influenzae bacteraemia cases continued to decrease until 2016.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the introduction of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine did not substantially affect disease occurrence. In contrast to the decreasing trends in H. influenzae and S. pneumoniae bacteraemia, S. aureus, E. coli and S. agalactiae bacteraemia showed increasing trends. These findings shed light on recent temporal trends in bacteraemia in both children and adults in Japan.

Relationship between death and admission of pediatric patients to intensive care due to Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia acquired in the community, 2014-2017

Introducción

La bacteriemia por Staphylococcus aureus adquirida en la comunidad (SA-AC) es una condición frecuente en pediatría que, además, constituye un problema de salud pública por las altas tasas de morbimortalidad y de resistencia bacteriana.

Objetivos

Analizar los factores relacionados con la muerte y el ingreso a cuidados intensivos de pacientes menores de 18 años con bacteriemia por SA-AC que ingresaron al Hospital Infantil Los Ángeles de Pasto, Colombia, entre el 2014 y el 2017.

Materiales y métodos

Se hizo un estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal. Se analizaron 86 pacientes con bacteriemia por SA-AC que cumplían los criterios de inclusión en el estudio utilizando un modelo multivariado de regresión logística.

Resultados

El 25,6% de los 86 pacientes falleció y el 40,7% ingresó a la unidad de cuidados intensivos. La resistencia a la meticilina fue de 52,3%. Los focos principales de infección fueron los tejidos blandos, el sistema osteoarticular y el respiratorio. El 32,6% de los pacientes provenía de la zona del Pacífico de Nariño. Las etnias predominantes fueron la mestiza y la indígena. Entre los indígenas hubo mayor mortalidad que entre mestizos y afrocolombianos. En el análisis multivariado de la variable de muerte, se registró significación de la endocarditis (odds ratio, OR ajustado=20; IC_95%1,5-254; p=0,02); no se registró significación estadística en cuanto al ingreso en la unidad de cuidados intensivos.

Conclusiones

La bacteriemia por SA-AC determinó altas tasas de mortalidad e ingreso a la unidad de cuidados intensivos. Las cepas resistentes representaron el 52,3%, y la resistencia a la meticilina desembocó en una mayor mortalidad, aunque la mortalidad con cepas sensibles también fue considerable. La endocarditis fue responsable de una mortalidad bastante elevada. Se debe ajustar el tratamiento empírico cuando se sospeche bacteriemia por SA-AC.

The epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia in Israeli children: Community- vs hospital-acquired or healthcare related infections

AIM

Incidences of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB) in Israeli children are unknown. The characteristics of SAB in children have not been evaluated.

METHODS

SAB from children aged ≤18 years old, admitted to a tertiary hospital in Israel during 2002-2015, were included. The proportional rate of SAB was calculated per 1000 admissions. SAB were classified as community acquired (CA), hospital acquired (HA) and healthcare related (HCR). Patients' characteristics, antibiotic susceptibility and outcomes were assessed in each group.

RESULTS

The rate of SAB was stable, 1.48 per 1000 admissions. HA, CA and HCR-SAB comprised 53%, 25% and 22%, respectively. Only 27/185 (14.6%) were caused by methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA): 22%, 6% and 5% of HA, CA and HCR-SAB, respectively. Central venous catheter, recent surgery, immunodeficiency and age <6 years were the main risk factors for HA and HCR-SAB (adjusted OR: 68.9, 7.5, 5.8 and 5.5, respectively). Treatment duration for CA was >21 days: and for HA and HCR, 14-20 days. All-cause in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality were documented in 10 (5%) and 3 (2%) episodes, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The rate of SAB; the proportions of CA, HA and HCR-SAB; and the proportion of MRSA was stable over the years. MRSA was mainly in HA-SAB. Thirty-day mortality was rare.

Follow-up Blood Cultures in Children With Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen seen in pediatric bloodstream infections. Currently, no evidence-based recommendations are used to guide decisions on the number of follow-up blood cultures (FUBCs) needed to demonstrate infection clearance. Unnecessary cultures increase the risk of false-positives, add to health care costs, and create additional trauma to children and their families. In this study, we examined risk factors for persistent S aureus bacteremia (SAB) and intermittent positive blood cultures (positive cultures obtained after a documented negative FUBC result) to determine the number of FUBCs needed to demonstrate infection clearance in children.

METHODS

Patients ≤18 years who were hospitalized with SAB at Texas Children's Hospital in 2018 were reviewed. We assessed the impact of an infectious disease diagnosis (central line-associated bloodstream infection, osteomyelitis, soft tissue infection, endocarditis, etc) and medical comorbidities on bacteremia duration. Patients with intermittent positive blood cultures were studied to determine the characteristics of this group and overall frequency of reversion to positive cultures.

RESULTS

A total of 122 subjects met the inclusion criteria. The median duration of bacteremia was 1 day (interquartile range: 1-2 days). Only 19 patients (16%) had bacteremia lasting ≥3 days, all of whom had a diagnosis of central line-associated bloodstream infection, osteomyelitis, or endocarditis. Intermittent positive cultures occurred in 5% of patients, with positive cultures after 2 negative FUBC results seen in <1% of patients. Intermittent positive cultures were strongly associated with osteomyelitis and endocarditis.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of our sample of children with SAB, additional blood cultures to document sterility are not necessary after 2 FUBC results are negative in well-appearing patients.

Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Children of Rural Areas of The Gambia, 2008-2015

Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia is a substantial cause of childhood disease and death, but few studies have described its epidemiology in developing countries. Using a population-based surveillance system for pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis, we estimated S. aureus bacteremia incidence and the case-fatality ratio in children <5 years of age in 2 regions in the eastern part of The Gambia during 2008–2015. Among 33,060 children with suspected pneumonia, sepsis, or meningitis, we performed blood culture for 27,851; of 1,130 patients with bacteremia, 198 (17.5%) were positive for S. aureus. S. aureus bacteremia incidence was 78 (95% CI 67–91) cases/100,000 person-years in children <5 years of age and 2,080 (95% CI 1,621–2,627) cases/100,000 person-years in neonates. Incidence did not change after introduction of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. The case-fatality ratio was 14.1% (95% CI 9.6%–19.8%). Interventions are needed to reduce the S. aureus bacteremia burden in The Gambia, particularly among neonates.

Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Children: Antibiotic Resistance and Mortality

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus (SA) is a major cause of bacteremia in children. Methicillin-resistant SA (MRSA) is considered a public health threat; however, the differences in the prognosis of children with methicillin-susceptible SA (MSSA) versus MRSA bacteremia are not well defined.

METHODS

Data from all SA bacteremia events in children (0-16 years) from 2002 to 2016 in a single Israeli tertiary center were collected. Positive cultures within 48 hours of hospitalization were considered community associated (CA). Those obtained afterward or from children hospitalized within the previous year were considered health-care associated (HA).

RESULTS

We recorded 427 events, 284 (66%) were HA, 64 (15%) were MRSA and 9 (2%) were CA-MRSA. There was no increase in MRSA during the study period. In-hospital, 30-day and 1-year mortality were 3% (12 cases), 3.5% (16 cases), and 12% (50 cases), respectively. A multivariable analysis controlling for demographics, admitting department and prior morbidity showed an increased 1-year mortality in children with HA bacteremia (hazard ratio [HR] 4.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3-12) and prior chronic disease (HR 3.4; 95% CI 1.2 to 9.0). MRSA was not independently associated with increased one-year mortality compared with MSSA: HR (95% CI: 1.4 [0.6-3.1]).

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term pediatric mortality after SA bacteremia is low. HA-SA bacteremia has an increased long-term risk for mortality, particularly in children with chronic diseases. Our data suggest mortality was not increased for MRSA compared with MSSA bacteremia. The very low rate of CA-MRSA bacteremia justifies the current practice not to include glycopeptides in the empiric treatment of CA bacteremia in Israel.

Risk Factors for Complications in Children with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

OBJECTIVES

To determine risk factors for complications in children with Staphylococcus aureus (S aureus) bacteremia, including methicillin resistance.

STUDY DESIGN

Single center, retrospective cohort study of children ≤18 years of age hospitalized with S aureus bacteremia. We compared clinical characteristics and outcomes between those with methicillin-sensitive S aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) bacteremia. Multivariate regression models identified risk factors associated with developing complications and with longer duration of bacteremia.

RESULTS

We identified 394 episodes of S aureus bacteremia, 279 (70.8%) with MSSA, and 115 (29.2%) with MRSA. Primary site of infection was catheter-related in 34%, musculoskeletal in 30%, skin/soft tissue in 10.2%, pneumonia in 6.4%, and endovascular in 6.6%. Eight children (2.0%) died within 30 days because of S aureus bacteremia, 15 (3.5%) had recurrence within 30 days, and 38 (9.6%) had complications including septic emboli or a metastatic focus of infection. Methicillin resistance was associated with development of a complication (aOR 3.31; 95% CI 1.60-6.85), and catheter-related infections were less likely to be associated with a complication (aOR 0.40; 95% CI 0.15-1.03). In a Poisson regression analysis on duration of bacteremia, methicillin resistance, musculoskeletal infection, endovascular infection, black race, and delayed intervention for source control were significantly associated with longer duration of bacteremia.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of children with S aureus bacteremia, MRSA infections ere associated with longer duration of bacteremia and a higher likelihood of complications.

Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Children Aged 5-18 Years-Risk Factors in the New Millennium

OBJECTIVES

To assess the association between comorbidities and Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia in children aged 5-18 years, thus, in children with a matured immune system. Further, we aimed to identify presumably healthy children acquiring bacteremia.

STUDY DESIGN

By cross-linking nationwide registries, we consecutively included all children born from 1995 onward at their 5-year birthday or date of immigration during 2000-2015. We examined incidence rate ratios (IRR) between preselected exposures and microbiologically verified S aureus bacteremia (reference = children without exposure) using Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

We followed 1 109 169 children in 2000-2015 during which 307 children (incidence rate: 3.7 per 100 000 person-years) acquired S aureus bacteremia (methicillin-resistant S aureus = 8; 2.6%). Children without known comorbidities or recent contact with the healthcare system comprised 37.1% of infected children. The highest IRRs were observed in children undergoing dialysis or plasmapheresis (IRR = 367.2 [95% CI) = 188.5-715.3]), children with organ transplantation (IRR = 149.5 [95% CI = 73.9-302.2]), and children with cancer (IRR = 102.9 [95% CI = 74.4-142.2]). Positive associations also were observed in children with chromosomal anomalies (IRR = 7.16 [95% CI = 2.96-17.34]), atopic dermatitis (IRR = 4.89 [95% CI = 3.11-7.69]), congenital heart disease (IRR = 3.14 [95% CI = 1.92-5.11]), and in children undergoing surgery (IRR = 3.34 [95% CI = 2.59-4.28]). Neither premature birth nor parental socioeconomic status was associated with increased disease rates.

CONCLUSIONS

S aureus bacteremia is uncommon in children between 5 and 18 years of age. Risk factors known from the adult population, such as dialysis, plasmapheresis, organ transplantation, and cancer, were associated with the highest relative rates. However, prematurity and parental socioeconomic status were not associated with increased rates. Approximately one-third of infected children were presumably healthy.

Randomized Multicenter Study Comparing Safety and Efficacy of Daptomycin Versus Standard-of-care in Pediatric Patients With Staphylococcal Bacteremia

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus, including community-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus, is an important cause of pediatric bacteremia. Daptomycin is a well-established treatment option for Gram-positive bacteremia in adults, but its safety and efficacy in children require confirmation.

METHODS

This was a randomized (2:1), evaluator-blinded, multicenter, phase 4 clinical trial comparing intravenous daptomycin with standard-of-care (SOC) for treatment of S. aureus bacteremia in 1- to 17-year-old patients (Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01728376). Total treatment duration (intravenous followed by oral step-down therapy) was 5-42 days. Daptomycin was dosed once daily by patient age: 12-17 years, 7 mg/kg; 7-11 years, 9 mg/kg and 1-6 years, 12 mg/kg. The primary objective was to evaluate daptomycin safety in children who received ≥1 dose; secondary objectives included comparing daptomycin efficacy with SOC (the trial was not designed to confirm noninferiority) and pharmacokinetic analysis.

RESULTS

Fifty-five children were randomized to daptomycin and 27 to SOC (primarily vancomycin or cefazolin); 90% had S. aureus. In both groups, 15% of patients had drug-related adverse events, primarily diarrhea (4% daptomycin, 8% SOC) and increased creatine phosphokinase (4% daptomycin, 0% SOC). Clinical success (blinded evaluator-assessed complete/partial resolution of bacteremia signs and symptoms 7-14 days after end-of-treatment) rates were similar for daptomycin (88%) and SOC (77%; 95% confidence interval for difference: -9% to 31%). Daptomycin plasma levels across age groups were comparable with those in adults receiving daptomycin at 6 mg/kg.

CONCLUSIONS

Once-daily, age-appropriate daptomycin was well tolerated in children with staphylococcal bacteremia; efficacy was comparable with SOC. Daptomycin in age-adjusted doses is a safe treatment alternative in this setting.

Practice Patterns of Providers for the Management of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Children: Results of an Emerging Infections Network Survey

We conducted a survey of pediatric infectious diseases providers in the Emerging Infections Network regarding the workup and treatment of children with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB). We found significant practice variation in the management of children with SAB. These findings emphasize the need for further research to guide best practices.

Infection characteristics and treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia at a tertiary children's hospital

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB) causes considerable morbidity and mortality in children. Despite this, its epidemiology and risk factors are poorly understood, with minimal paediatric clinical trial data available to guide clinicians in management. We conducted a pilot study to characterise SAB and validate a severity classification for use in future clinical trials.

METHODS

Patients with SAB were prospectively identified at Princess Margaret Hospital for Children (Perth, Western Australia) from May 2011 to December 2013. Retrospective data were collected from clinical and laboratory records. Cases were classified based on a priori defined criteria as simple (single or contiguous, peripheral site focus) or complex (multi-site, deep tissue, no focus or sepsis) and tested against risk factors and markers of severity of infection.

RESULTS

There were 49 cases of SAB (median age 7.7 years), with classification as simple (n = 30, 61%) and complex (n = 19, 39%) respectively. There were no deaths or relapses in our cohort. Only 10% of isolates were methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and none of these were healthcare-associated. Age, gender, Indigenous status, MRSA and healthcare-associated infections were not predictive of complex infection. Pre-existing malignancy was a risk factor for complex infection (p = 0.02). Complex infections were associated with a higher median maximum C reactive protein (216 mg/L vs 50 mg/L, p = < 0.001), longer median length of stay (42 vs 10 days, p = < 0.001) and longer duration of antibiotic therapy (43 vs 34 days, p = 0.03).

DISCUSSION

This is the first attempt to categorise paediatric SAB as simple versus complex, to guide clinicians in decision making.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a wide spectrum of disease severity in paediatric SAB, with maximum CRP, length of stay, and duration of therapy greater in those with complex disease. Distinct cohorts with simple and complex courses which may be a target for future clinical trials have been described.

Estimating the burden of antimicrobial resistance: a systematic literature review

Background

Accurate estimates of the burden of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are needed to establish the magnitude of this global threat in terms of both health and cost, and to paramaterise cost-effectiveness evaluations of interventions aiming to tackle the problem. This review aimed to establish the alternative methodologies used in estimating AMR burden in order to appraise the current evidence base.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, EconLit, PubMed and grey literature were searched. English language studies evaluating the impact of AMR (from any microbe) on patient, payer/provider and economic burden published between January 2013 and December 2015 were included. Independent screening of title/abstracts followed by full texts was performed using pre-specified criteria. A study quality score (from zero to one) was derived using Newcastle-Ottawa and Philips checklists. Extracted study data were used to compare study method and resulting burden estimate, according to perspective. Monetary costs were converted into 2013 USD.

Results

Out of 5187 unique retrievals, 214 studies were included. One hundred eighty-seven studies estimated patient health, 75 studies estimated payer/provider and 11 studies estimated economic burden. 64% of included studies were single centre. The majority of studies estimating patient or provider/payer burden used regression techniques. 48% of studies estimating mortality burden found a significant impact from resistance, excess healthcare system costs ranged from non-significance to $1 billion per year, whilst economic burden ranged from $21,832 per case to over $3 trillion in GDP loss. Median quality scores (interquartile range) for patient, payer/provider and economic burden studies were 0.67 (0.56-0.67), 0.56 (0.46-0.67) and 0.53 (0.44-0.60) respectively.

Conclusions

This study highlights what methodological assumptions and biases can occur dependent on chosen outcome and perspective. Currently, there is considerable variability in burden estimates, which can lead in-turn to inaccurate intervention evaluations and poor policy/investment decisions. Future research should utilise the recommendations presented in this review.

Trial registration

This systematic review is registered with PROSPERO (PROSPERO CRD42016037510).

Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia and endocarditis - epidemiology and outcome: a review

PURPOSE

To review the epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB) and endocarditis (SAE), and discuss the short- and long-term outcome.  Materials and methods: A literature review of the epidemiology of SAB and SAE.

RESULTS

The reported incidence of SAB in Western countries is 16-41/100,000 person-years. Increasing incidence has been observed in many regions, in Iceland by 27% during 1995-2008. The increase is believed to depend on changes in population risk factors and possibly better and more frequent utilization of diagnostic procedures. S. aureus is now the leading causes of infective endocarditis (IE) in many regions of the world. It accounts for 15-40% of all IE cases, and the majority of cases in people who inject drugs (PWID). Recently, the incidence of SAE in PWID in Stockholm, Sweden, was found to be 2.5/1000 person-years, with an in-hospital mortality of 2.5% in PWID as compared to 15% in non-drug users. The 30-day mortality associated with SAB amounts to 15-25% among adults in Western countries, but is lower in children (0-9%). Mortality associated with SAE is high (generally 20-30% in-hospital mortality), and symptomatic cerebral embolizations are common (12-35%). The 1-year mortality reported after SAB and SAE is 19-62% and reflects deaths from underlying diseases and complications caused by the infection. In a subset of SAE cases, valvular heart surgery is needed (15-45%), but active intravenous drug use seems to be a reason to refrain from surgery. Despite its importance, there are insufficient data on the optimal management of SAB and SAE, especially on the required duration of antibiotic therapy.  Conclusions: The epidemiology of SAB and SAE has been changing in the past decades. They still carry a substantial morbidity and mortality. Intensified studies on treatment are warranted for improving patient outcome.

Central venous catheter salvage in children with Staphylococcus aureus central line-associated bloodstream infection

BACKGROUND

Prompt central venous catheter (CVC) removal is currently recommended in children with Staphylococcus aureus central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI). Our objective was to examine the outcome of attempted line salvage in children with S. aureus CLABSI and assess predictors of success.

METHODS

A single-institution, retrospective cohort study was performed of all children with S. aureus CLABSI between 2012 and 2015. Patients with and without immediate CVC removal (≤ 2 days after first positive culture) were compared. The primary outcome was failed CVC salvage (removal after 3+ days).

RESULTS

Seventy-seven children met criteria for S. aureus CLABSI. Immediate CVC removal was performed in 27.3% of patients. Among the 72.7% patients in whom CVC salvage was attempted, 78.6% were successful and 21.4% required delayed CVC removal. Malignancy, short gut syndrome, neutropenia, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, and line type were not associated with salvage failure. No associated morbidity or mortality occurred in patients with a failed salvage attempt. New or recurrent bacteremia occurred in five patients, but three were successfully salvaged a second time.

CONCLUSIONS

CVC salvage was feasible in the majority of children with S. aureus CLABSI and was not associated with significant complications or attributable mortality as reported in adults.

Epidemiology and hospital readmission associated with complications of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia in pediatrics over a 25-year period

We sought to comprehensively assess the prevalence and outcomes of complications associated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) in children. Secondarily, prevalence of methicillin resistance and outcomes of complications from methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) vs. methicillin-susceptible S. aureus SAB were assessed. This is a single-center cross-sectional study of 376 patients ⩽18 years old with SAB in 1990-2014. Overall, 197 (52%) patients experienced complications, the most common being osteomyelitis (33%), skin and soft tissue infection (31%), and pneumonia (25%). Patients with complications were older (median 3 vs. 0·7 years, P = 0·05) and more had community-associated SAB (66% vs. 34%, P = 0·001). Fewer patients with complications had a SAB-related emergency department or hospital readmission (10% vs. 19%, P = 0·014). Prevalence of methicillin resistance increased from 1990-1999 to 2000-2009, but decreased in 2010-2014. Complicated MRSA bacteremia resulted in more intensive care unit admissions (66% vs. 47%, P = 0·03) and led to increased likelihood of having ⩾2 foci (58% vs. 26%, P < 0·001). From multivariate analysis, community-associated SAB increased risk and concurrent infections decreased risk of complications (odds ratio (OR) 1·82 (1·1-3·02), P = 0·021) and (OR 0·58 (0·34-0·97), P = 0·038), respectively. In conclusion, children with SAB should be carefully evaluated for complications. Methicillin resistance remains associated with poor outcomes but have decreased in overall prevalence.

[Antibiotic susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae in healthy carrier individuals in primary care in Barcelona area]

Introducción

La información existente sobre la resistencia a los antibióticos se basa habitualmente en muestras de personas hospitalizadas. El objetivo fue evaluar la prevalencia de resistencia antibiótica de cepas de Staphylococcus aureus y Streptococcus pneumoniae de personas portadores nasales atendidas en las consultas de atención primaria según edad y sexo.

Diseño

Estudio transversal.

Emplazamiento

Siete centros de salud del área de Barcelona.

Participantes

Personas portadoras nasales a partir de 4 años de edad, sin signos de enfermedad infecciosa y que no habían tomado antibióticos ni habían estado hospitalizados en los 3 meses anteriores.

Mediciones principales

Se recogieron 3.969 frotis nasales válidos para identificación entre 2010 y 2011 y fueron enviados a un laboratorio central de microbiología para el aislamiento de ambos gérmenes. La resistencia a los antibióticos se estableció según los puntos de corte actuales de la guía del European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing.

Resultados

La prevalencia de S. aureus resistente a meticilina fue del 1,3% (IC 95%: 0,5-2,1%), con porcentajes de resistencia frente a fenoximetilpenicilina del 87,1% y a azitromicina del 11,6%, sin observar diferencias significativas según edad y sexo. Un 2,4% (IC 95%: 0,1-4,7%) de las cepas de neumococo fueron altamente resistentes a fenoximetilpenicilina y macrólidos, mientras que las mayores resistencias se observaron frente a cefaclor (53,3%), tetraciclina (20%) y cefuroxima (12,1%).

Conclusiones

Estos patógenos tienen resistencias más bajas en la comunidad que las que se observan en el medio hospitalario. Es importante que se conozca la resistencia antibiótica actual para poder hacer un uso más prudente de los antibióticos.

Bacteremia in Children 3 to 36 Months Old After Introduction of Conjugated Pneumococcal Vaccines

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In June 2010, Kaiser Permanente Northern California replaced all 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) vaccines with the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13). Our objectives were to compare the incidence of bacteremia in children 3 to 36 months old by 3 time periods: pre-PCV7, post-PCV7/pre-PCV13, and post-PCV13.

METHODS

We designed a retrospective review of the electronic medical records of all blood cultures collected on children 3 to 36 months old at Kaiser Permanente Northern California from September 1, 1998 to August 31, 2014 in outpatient clinics, in emergency departments, and in the first 24 hours of hospitalization.

RESULTS

During the study period, 57 733 blood cultures were collected in the population of children 3 to 36 months old. Implementation of routine immunization with the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine resulted in a 95.3% reduction of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteremia, decreasing from 74.5 to 10 to 3.5 per 100 000 children per year by the post-PCV13 period. As pneumococcal rates decreased, Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp, and Staphylococcus aureus caused 77% of bacteremia. Seventy-six percent of all bacteremia in the post-PCV13 period occurred with a source.

CONCLUSIONS

In the United States, routine immunizations have made bacteremia in the previously healthy toddler a rare event. As the incidence of pneumococcal bacteremia has decreased, E coli, Salmonella spp, and S aureus have increased in relative importance. New guidelines are needed to approach the previously healthy febrile toddler in the outpatient setting.

Dalbavancin for the treatment of paediatric infectious diseases

To review the topics of interest related to the use of dalbavancin in paediatric patients. PubMed was used to search for all of the studies published over the last 15 years using the key word "dalbavancin". A total of 36 manuscripts were selected, and due to the limited pediatric experience a further research was performed in order to identify clinical trials ongoing. Three studies that concerned children were found in clinicaltrials.gov. This review considers also the manuscripts published on the adult population in order to highlight the gaps requiring further research at pediatric age. Dalbavancin has emerged as a promising agent against resistant Gram-positive invasive infections. It is approved in the United States and Europe for the treatment of adult patients with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (SSTIs). Compared to other available antibiotics that are active against multi-resistant bacteria, the advantages of dalbavancin include a lower potential for drug interactions and the possibility of fewer required doses due to a longer half-life. Pharmacokinetic characteristics of dalbavacin are attractive for its clinical impact, especially for children who may avoid prolonged hospitalization and central venous access. However, further studies are needed to establish its appropriate paediatric dosage before it can be licensed for use in newborns and children. For younger patients, at a time when infections due to multidrug-resistant Gram-positive pathogens are increasing, dosage, efficacy and safety data for dalbavancin are needed to ensure the highest antimicrobial efficacy while also minimizing the risk of adverse events.