Empiric treatment of healthcare-associated central nervous system infections in Denmark: do we need carbapenems?

BACKGROUND

Carbapenems are widely used for empiric treatment of healthcare-associated central nervous system (CNS) infections. We investigated the feasibility of a carbapenem-sparing strategy, utilising a third-generation cephalosporin (ceftriaxone or cefotaxime) (combined with vancomycin) for the empirical treatment of healthcare-associated CNS infections in Eastern Denmark.

METHODS

The departments of neurosurgery and neuro-intensive care at Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet. First, we analysed local microbiological data (1st January 2020-31st August 2022) to identify microorganisms non-susceptible to third-generation cephalosporin. Subsequently, we assessed all carbapenem prescriptions over a three-month period for their indication and justification.

RESULTS

In total, 25,247 bacterial cultures were identified, of which 2,563 CNS-related, were included in the analysis. The positivity rate was 10.5% (n = 257/2439) for cerebrospinal-fluid samples and 75.8% (n = 95/124) for brain parenchyma. CNS samples from five individual patients revealed bacteria non-susceptible to third generation cephalosporins (Enterobacter spp. (n = 3), Pseudomonas spp. (n = 2), Klebsiella spp. (n = 2), Citrobacter freundii (n = 1)). All five patients had been hospitalised for ≥10days at the time-point of antibiotic therapy. Out of 11,626 sets of blood cultures, a total of 10 individual patients had Gram-negative blood-stream infections with resistance to ceftriaxone and piperacillin/tazobactam. 140 days-of-therapy (32%) with carbapenem in 18 patients (36%) were definitively or possibly indicated according to guidelines, none were indicated for healthcare-associated CNS-infections.

CONCLUSION

An empiric treatment strategy relying on a third-generation cephalosporin appears suitable for healthcare-associated CNS infections at our tertiary hospital, serving a population of 2.6 million. However, in patients with prolonged hospitalization (≥10 days), immunosuppression, prior broad-spectrum antibiotic use, or history of resistant Gram-negative bacteria, empirical prescription of carbapenem may be needed.

Ventriculostomy-associated infection (VAI) in patients with acute brain injury-a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Ventriculostomy-associated infection (VAI) is common after external ventricular drains (EVD) insertion but is difficult to diagnose in patients with acute brain injury. Previously, we proposed a set of criteria for ruling out VAI in traumatic brain injury. This study aimed to validate these criteria. For exploratory purposes, we sought to develop and validate a score for VAI risk assessment in patients with different types of severe acute brain injury.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included adults with acute brain injury who received an EVD and in whom CSF samples were taken over a period of 57 months. As standard non-coated bolt-connected EVDs were used. The predictive performance of biomarkers was analyzed as defined previously. A multivariable regression model was performed with five variables.

RESULTS

A total of 683 patients with acute brain injury underwent EVD placement and had 1272 CSF samples; 92 (13.5%) patients were categorized as culture-positive VAI, 130 (19%) as culture-negative VAI, and 461 (67.5%) as no VAI. A low CSF WBC/RBC ratio (< 0.037), high CSF/plasma glucose ratio (> 0.6), and low CSF protein (< 0.5g/L) showed a positive predictive value of 0.09 (95%CI, 0.05-0.13). In the multivariable logistic regression model, days to sample (OR 1.09; 95%CI, 1.03-1.16) and CSF WBC/RBC ratio (OR 34.86; 95%CI, 3.94-683.15) were found to predict VAI.

CONCLUSION

In patients with acute brain injury and an EVD, our proposed combined cut-off for ruling out VAI performed satisfactorily. Days to sample and CSF WBC/RBC ratio were found independent predictors for VAI in the multivariable logistic regression model.

Risk factors for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization in a level-IV neonatal intensive care unit: a retrospective study

Objective

To identify risk factors associated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization in neonatal patients during an MRSA outbreak to minimize future outbreaks.

Design

Retrospective case-control study.

Setting

Level-IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark.

Patients

Neonates with either MRSA or methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA).

Methods

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus-positive neonates were matched with those colonized or infected with MSSA in a 1:1 ratio. The control group was selected from clinical samples, whereas MRSA-positive neonates were identified from clinical samples or from screening. A total of 140 characteristics were investigated to identify risk factors associated with MRSA acquisition. The characteristics were categorized into three categories: patient, unit, and microbiological characteristics.

Results

Out of 1,102 neonates screened for MRSA, between December 2019 and January 2022, 33 were MRSA positive. They were all colonized with an MRSA outbreak clone (spa type t127) and were included in this study. Four patients (12%) had severe infection. Admission due to respiratory diseases, need for intubation, need for peripheral venous catheters, admission to shared rooms with shared toilets and bath facilities in the aisles, and need for readmission were all correlated with later MRSA colonization (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

We identified clinically relevant diseases, procedures, and facilities that predispose patients to potentially life-threatening MRSA infections. A specific MRSA reservoir remains unidentified; however, these findings have contributed to crucial changes in our NICU to reduce the number of MRSA infections and future outbreaks.

The effects of sociodemographic factors and comorbidities on sepsis: A nationwide Swedish cohort study

Sepsis is a severe condition, representing a significant public health concern, especially in the elderly. There is, however, little insight into the potential effects of sociodemographic factors and comorbidities on sepsis incidence and how these factors interact. This was a nationwide open cohort study including individuals (N = 6 746 010) in Sweden ≥ 18 years of age spanning from 1997 to 2018, with 116 175 995 person years of follow-up. The outcome was time to first occurrence of sepsis. The following variables were included in the analysis: sociodemographic factors (age, sex, income, education, marital status, region of residency, and country of origin), severe mental disorders (schizophrenia and bipolar disorders), and Charlson Comorbidity Index. Interaction tests were conducted. A total of 161 558 individuals were diagnosed with sepsis during the study period, corresponding to an incidence rate of 13.9 per 10 000 person years (95% CI: 13.8 - 14.0). The main findings were that male sex, high age, low education, and comorbid conditions were positively associated with sepsis, after adjustments for the other covariates. Being aged 80 years and above yielded a HR of 18.19 (95% CI: 17.84 - 18.55) and the effect of high age was more than twice as high in men than in women. In conclusion, this large nationwide cohort found that several sociodemographic factors and comorbid conditions were independently associated with sepsis and men were more affected by higher age than women. These findings can help improve sepsis awareness and preventive work in risk groups.

Prediction of herpes virus infections after solid organ transplantation: a prospective study of immune function

Introduction

Herpes virus infections are a major concern after solid organ transplantation and linked to the immune function of the recipient. We aimed to determine the incidence of positive herpes virus (cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus type 1/2 (HSV-1/2), and varicella zoster virus (VZV)) PCR tests during the first year post-transplantation and assess whether a model including immune function pre-transplantation and three months post-transplantation could predict a subsequent positive herpes virus PCR.

Methods

All participants were preemptively screened for CMV, and EBV IgG-negative participants were screened for EBV during the first year post-transplantation. Herpes virus PCR tests for all included herpes viruses (CMV, EBV, HSV-1/2, and VZV) were retrieved from the Danish Microbiology database containing nationwide PCR results from both hospitals and outpatient clinics. Immune function was assessed by whole blood stimulation with A) LPS, B) R848, C) Poly I:C, and D) a blank control. Cytokine concentrations (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p40, IL-17A, IFN-α, and IFN-γ) were measured using Luminex.

Results

We included 123 liver (54%), kidney (26%), and lung (20%) transplant recipients. The cumulative incidence of positive herpes virus PCR tests was 36.6% (95% CI: 28.1-45.1) during the first year post-transplantation. The final prediction model included recipient age, type of transplantation, CMV serostatus, and change in Poly I:C-induced IL-12p40 from pre-transplantation to three months post-transplantation. The prediction model had an AUC of 77% (95% CI: 61-92). Risk scores were extracted from the prediction model, and the participants were divided into three risk groups. Participants with a risk score <5 (28% of the cohort), 5-10 (45% of the cohort), and >10 (27% of the cohort) had a cumulative incidence of having a positive herpes virus PCR test at 5.8%, 25%, and 73%, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the incidence of positive herpes virus PCR tests was high, and a risk model including immune function allowed the prediction of positive herpes virus PCR and may be used to identify recipients at higher risk.

Differences in the distribution of pathogens and antimicrobial resistance in bloodstream infections in migrants compared with non-migrants in Denmark

BACKGROUND

We wish to study disparities in bloodstream infections in migrants and non-migrants by comparing the distribution of pathogens and their resistance patterns in long-term migrants with that in non-migrants in Denmark.

METHODS

The study is based on a cohort of migrants, who received residency in Denmark between 1993 and 2015 and a control group of non-migrants. The cohort was linked to a database of bloodstream infections from 2000 to 2015 covering two regions in Denmark. First-time bloodstream infections in individuals ≥18 years of age at the time of sampling were included. We calculated odds ratios adjusted for age, sex, year of sampling, comorbidity, and place of acquisition (hospital- or community-acquired).

RESULTS

We identified 4,703 bloodstream infection cases. Family-reunified migrants and refugees had higher odds of Escherichia coli than non-migrants (OR 1.89 95%CI: 1.46-2.44 and OR 1.55 95%CI: 1.25-1.92) and lower odds of Streptococcus pneumoniae (OR 0.38 95%CI: 0.21-0.67 and OR 0.52 95%CI: 0.34-0.81). Differences in pathogen distribution were only prevalent in community-acquired bloodstream infections. Refugees had higher odds of Escherichia coli resistant to piperacillin-tazobactam, ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin compared with non-migrants. Family-reunified migrants had higher odds of Escherichia coli and other Enterobacterales resistant to ciprofloxacin.

CONCLUSIONS

Migrants had a higher proportion of community-acquired bloodstream infections with Escherichia coli as well as higher odds of bloodstream infections with resistant Escherichia coli compared with non-migrants. These novel results are relevant for improving migrant health by focussing on preventing and treating infections especially with Escherichia coli such as urinary tract and abdominal infections.

The Risk of Pyelonephritis Following Uncomplicated Cystitis: A Nationwide Primary Healthcare Study

BACKGROUND

The risk of pyelonephritis following uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection (cystitis) in women has not been studied in well-powered samples. This is likely due to the previous lack of nationwide primary healthcare data. We aimed to examine the risks of pyelonephritis following cystitis in women and explore if antibiotic treatment, cervical cancer, parity, and sociodemographic factors are related to these risks.

METHODS

This was a nationwide cohort study (2006-2018) of 752,289 women diagnosed with uncomplicated cystitis in primary healthcare settings. Of these, 404 696 did not redeem an antibiotic prescription within five days from cystitis. Logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios for pyelonephritis within 30 days and 90 days following the cystitis event.

RESULTS

Around one percent (7454) of all women with cystitis were diagnosed with pyelonephritis within 30 days, of which 78.2% had not redeemed an antibiotic for their cystitis. Antibiotic treatment was inversely associated with both outpatient registration and hospitalization due to pyelonephritis, with odds ratios of 0.85 (95% CI 0.80 to 0.91) and 0.65 (95% CI 0.55 to 0.77), respectively. Sociodemographic factors, parity, and cervical cancer were, with few exceptions (e.g., age and region of residency), not associated with pyelonephritis.

CONCLUSIONS

Antibiotic treatment was inversely associated with pyelonephritis, but the absolute risk reduction was low. Non-antibiotic treatment for cystitis might be a safe option for most women. Future studies identifying the women at the highest risks will help clinicians in their decision making when treating cystitis, while keeping the ecological costs of antibiotics in mind.

Analysis of antibiotic use patterns in Danish hospitals 2015–2021 using an adapted version of the who aware classification

Background

AWaRe is a tool to categorise and guide antibiotic use. Antibiotics are classified in three groups: Access, Watch and Reserve. The Access group contains first choice antibiotics for 25 of the most common infections. Antibiotics in the Watch and Reserve groups should be restricted to cases that cannot be effectively treated with drugs from the Access group.

Objectives

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate and adapt the WHO 2019 AWaRe classification for use with antibiotic usage data in Danish hospitals. The secondary aim was to study the usefulness of the abxaware; software package for visualisation and analysis of temporal trends in antibiotic use patterns.

Methods

We obtained data on purchases of antibiotics in Danish hospitals from January 2015 to July 2021. Sixty-seven unique drugs had been purchased. To better correspond with Danish guidelines, we moved two drugs one AWaRe level upwards. To help aggregate antibiotics according to AWaRe and visualise use patterns, we developed an R package, abxaware.

Results

After adding two drugs that were not included in the original AWaRe classification nearly all antibiotics (>99%) used in Danish hospitals were covered. The abxaware software package for R is a useful tool to help aggregate, visualise and analyse antibiotic use patterns.

Conclusions

With minor modifications, we adapted the AWaRe classification to cover most antibiotics used in Danish hospitals and to reflect Danish treatment guidelines. The abxaware package is a useful tool to aggregate and plot antibiotic usage data according to the AWaRe classification and to test for non-random variation in the percentage use of Access antibiotics.

Incidence and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infections in liver and kidney transplant recipients in the post-vaccination era: Real-life data from Denmark

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been associated with a high risk of adverse outcomes in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients in the pre-vaccination era. In this retrospective cohort study, we examined the incidence and severity of COVID-19 in kidney and liver transplant recipients in Denmark in the post-vaccination era, from December 27, 2020, to December 27, 2021. We included 1428 SOT recipients with 143 cases of first-positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test. The cumulative incidence of first-positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test 1 year after initiation of vaccination was 10.4% (95% CI: 8.8-12.0), and the incidence was higher in kidney than in liver transplant recipients (11.6% [95% CI: 9.4-13.8] vs. 7.4% [95% CI: 5.1-9.8], p = .009). After the first-positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR test, the hospitalization rate was 31.5% (95% CI: 23.9-39.1), and 30-day all-cause mortality was 3.7% (95% CI: 0.5-6.8). Hospitalization was lower in vaccinated than in unvaccinated SOT recipients (26.4% [95% CI: 18.1-34.6] vs. 48.5% [95% CI: 31.4-65.5], p = .011), as was mortality (1.8% [95% CI: 0.0-4.3] vs. 9.1% [95% CI: 0.0-18.9], p = .047). In conclusion, SOT recipients remain at high risk of adverse outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infections, with a lower risk observed in vaccinated than in unvaccinated SOT recipients.

The association between common urogenital infections and cervical neoplasia - A nationwide cohort study of over four million women (2002-2018)

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in women worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the association between common urogenital infections and cervical neoplasia.

METHODS

A multi-register national cohort study of 4,120,557 women aged ≥15 years (2002-2018) was conducted. The outcomes were cervical cancer and carcinoma in situ (Swedish Cancer Register). The main predictors were urogenital infections-(urinary) cystitis, (bacterial) vaginosis, (candida) vulvovaginitis. Incidence rates per 10,000 person-years were calculated (using the European Standard Population). Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) while adjusting for possible confounders-other genital infections (e.g., cervicitis, salpingitis, urogenital herpes), parity, and sociodemographic factors.

FINDINGS

In 39·0 million person-years of follow-up, the incidence rate for cervical cancer was 1·2 (95% CI 1·1-1·2) per 10,000 person-years and the figure for cervical carcinoma in situ was more than tenfold higher. The fully adjusted HRs for cervical cancer were 1·31 (95% CI 1·15 and 1·48) and 1·22 (95% CI 1·16 and 1·29) for vaginosis and cystitis, respectively. Vaginosis showed a gradient association to carcinoma in situ. Vulvovaginitis was inversely associated with cervical cancer, but not significantly related with carcinoma in situ in the fully adjusted model. A temporal association with cervical cancer was observed for vaginosis and vulvovaginitis (inversely) but not for cystitis.

INTERPRETATION

In this large nationwide cohort of women, medically attended common urogenital infections were independently associated with cervical neoplasia, but cystitis was not temporally associated with cervical neoplasia. These findings could be used to increase focus on preventive measures, HPV-vaccination programmes, HPV-analyses- and cervical cancer screening, especially in women suffering from vaginosis. Future studies on the causal mechanism are warranted before generalized public health recommendations can be made.

FUNDING

Region Skåne, Tore Nilsons Stiftelse, and Swedish Society of Medicine.

A nationwide analytical and clinical evaluation of 44 rapid antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 compared to RT-qPCR

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in massive testing by Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) without solid independent data regarding clinical performance being available. Thus, decision on purchase of a specific RAT may rely on manufacturer-provided data and limited peer-reviewed data.

Methods

This study consists of two parts. In the retrospective analytical part, 33 RAT from 25 manufacturers were compared to RT-PCR on 100 negative and 204 positive deep oropharyngeal cavity samples divided into four groups based on RT-PCR Cq levels. In the prospective clinical part, nearly 200 individuals positive for SARS-CoV-2 and nearly 200 individuals negative for SARS-CoV-2 by routine RT-PCR testing were retested within 72 h for each of 44 included RAT from 26 manufacturers applying RT-PCR as the reference method.

Results

The overall analytical sensitivity differed significantly between the 33 included RAT; from 2.5% (95% CI 0.5–4.8) to 42% (95% CI 35–49). All RAT presented analytical specificities of 100%. Likewise, the overall clinical sensitivity varied significantly between the 44 included RAT; from 2.5% (95% CI 0.5–4.8) to 94% (95% CI 91–97). All RAT presented clinical specificities between 98 and 100%.

Conclusion

The study presents analytical as well as clinical performance data for 44 commercially available RAT compared to the same RT-PCR test. The study enables identification of individual RAT that has significantly higher sensitivity than other included RAT and may aid decision makers in selecting between the included RAT.

Funding

The study was funded by a participant fee for each test and the Danish Regions.

An Agreement of Antigen Tests on Oral Pharyngeal Swabs or Less Invasive Testing With Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detecting SARS-CoV-2 in Adults: Protocol for a Prospective Nationwide Observational Study

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented level of worldwide testing for epidemiologic and diagnostic purposes, and due to the extreme need for tests, the gold-standard Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing capacity has been unable to meet the overall worldwide testing demand. Consequently, although the current literature has shown the sensitivity of rapid antigen tests (RATs) to be inferior to RT-PCR, RATs have been implemented on a large scale without solid data on performance.

Objective

This study will compare analytical and clinical sensitivities and specificities of 50 lateral flow– or laboratory-based RATs and 3 strand invasion–based amplification (SIBA)-RT-PCR tests from 30 manufacturers to RT-PCR testing of samples obtained from the deep oropharynx. In addition, the study will compare sensitivities and specificities of the included RATs as well as RT-PCR on clinical samples obtained from the deep oropharynx, the anterior nasal cavity, saliva, the deep nasopharynx, and expired air to RT-PCR on deep oropharyngeal samples.

Methods

In the prospective part of the study, 200 individuals found SARS-CoV-2 positive and 200 individuals found SARS-CoV-2 negative by routine RT-PCR testing will be retested with each RAT, applying RT-PCR as the reference method. In the retrospective part of the study, 304 deep oropharyngeal cavity swabs divided into 4 groups based on RT-PCR quantification cycle (Cq) levels will be tested with each RAT.

Results

The results will be reported in several papers with different aims. The first paper will report retrospective (analytical sensitivity, overall and stratified into different Cq range groups) and prospective (clinical sensitivity) data for RATs, with RT-PCR as the reference method. The second paper will report results for RAT based on anatomical sampling location. The third paper will compare different anatomical sampling locations by RT-PCR testing. The fourth paper will focus on RATs that rely on central laboratory testing. Tests from 4 different manufacturers will be compared for analytical performance data on retrospective deep oropharyngeal swab samples. The fifth paper will report the results of 4 RATs applied both as professional use and as self-tests. The last paper will report the results from 2 breath tests in the study. A comparison of sensitivity and specificity between RATs will be conducted using the McNemar test for paired samples and the chi-squared test for unpaired samples. Comparison of the positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) between RATs will be performed by the bootstrap test, and 95% CIs for sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV will be calculated as bootstrap CIs.

Conclusions

The study will compare the sensitivities of a large number of RATs for SARS-CoV-2 to with those of RT-PCR and will address whether lateral flow–based RATs differ significantly from laboratory-based RATs. The anatomical test locations for both RATs and RT-PCR will also be compared.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04913116; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04913116

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/35706

[The first two cases of Candida auris in Denmark]

This is a case report of the first two cases of Candida auris in Denmark. Patient 1 was known to be colonized with C. auris when transferred from a foreign hospital to a Danish hospital. The patient was isolated during the entire hospitalization and the room was thoroughly cleaned after discharge. Patient 2 who had no travel history spent five hours in the room of Patient 1 after disinfection. One month later, C. auris was found in the blood of Patient 2. Transmission from Patient 1 to Patient 2 must be suspected.

The Induced Immune Response in Patients With Infectious Spondylodiscitis: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study

Introduction

Infectious spondylodiscitis is a rare infection of the intervertebral disc and the adjacent vertebral bodies that often disseminates and requires long-term antibiotic therapy. Immunologic profiling of patients with infectious spondylodiscitis could allow for a personalized medicine strategy. We aimed to examine the induced immune response in patients with infectious spondylodiscitis during and after antibiotic therapy. Furthermore, we explored potential differences in the induced immune response depending on the causative pathogen and the dissemination of the disease.

Methods

This was a prospective observational cohort study that enrolled patients with infectious spondylodiscitis between February 2018 and August 2020. A blood sample was collected at baseline, after four to six weeks of antibiotic therapy (during antibiotic therapy), and three to seven months after end of antibiotic therapy (post-infection). The induced immune response was assessed using the standardized functional immune assay TruCulture^®. We used a panel of three immune cell stimuli (lipopolysaccharide, Resiquimod and polyinosinic:polycytodylic acid) and an unstimulated control. For each stimulus, the induced immune response was assessed by measuring the released concentration of Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p40, IL-17A, Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in pg/mL.

Results

In total, 49 patients with infectious spondylodiscitis were included. The induced immune responses were generally lower than references at baseline, but the cytokine release increased in patients after treatment with antibiotic therapy. Post-infection, most of the released cytokine concentrations were within the reference range. No significant differences in the induced immune responses based on stratification according to the causative pathogen or dissemination of disease were found.

Conclusion

We found lower induced immune responses in patients with infectious spondylodiscitis at baseline. However, post-infection, the immune function normalized, indicating that an underlying immune deficiency is not a prominent factor for spondylodiscitis. We did not find evidence to support the use of induced immune responses as a tool for prediction of the causative pathogen or disease dissemination, and other methods should be explored to guide optimal treatment of patients with infectious spondylodiscitis.

Effect of PEP flute self-care versus usual care in early covid-19: non-drug, open label, randomised controlled trial in a Danish community setting

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether positive expiratory pressure (PEP) by PEP flute self-care is effective in reducing respiratory symptoms among community dwelling adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection and early stage covid-19.

DESIGN

Non-drug, open label, randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Capital Region and Region Zealand in Denmark from 6 October 2020 to 26 February 2021.

PARTICIPANTS

Community dwelling adults, able to perform self-care, with a new SARS-CoV-2 infection (verified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction tests) and symptoms of covid-19.

INTERVENTION

Participants were randomised to use PEP flute self-care in addition to usual care or have usual care only. Randomisation was based on permuted random blocks in a 1:1 ratio, stratified for sex and age (<60 or ≥60 years). The PEP self-care group was instructed to use a PEP flute three times per day during the 30 day intervention.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcome was a change in symptom severity from baseline to day 30, as assessed by the self-reported COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) assessment test (CAT), which was adjusted for baseline values and stratification factors. Participants completed the CAT test questionnaire every day online. Secondary outcomes were self-reported urgent care visits due to covid-19, number of covid-19 related symptoms, and change in self-rated health, all within 30-days' follow-up.

RESULTS

378 participants were assigned to the PEP flute self-care intervention (n=190) or usual care only (n=188). In the PEP self-care group, the median number of days with PEP flute use was 21 days (interquartile range 13-25). For the intention-to-treat population, a group difference was observed in changes from baseline in CAT scores of -1.2 points (95% confidence interval -2.1 to -0.2; P=0.017) in favour of the PEP flute self-care group. At day 30, the PEP flute self-care group also reported less chest tightness, less dyspnoea, more vigour, and higher level of daily activities, but these differences were small, and no consistent effects were seen on the secondary outcomes. No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

In community dwelling adults with early covid-19, PEP flute self-care had a significant, yet marginal and uncertain clinical effect on respiratory symptom severity, as measured by CAT scores.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04530435.

All-cause Mortality Due to Bacteremia during a 60-Day Non-Physician Healthcare Worker Strike

This study explored all-cause mortality of bacteremia diagnosed during a 60-day non-physician healthcare worker strike in 2008. A significant change, with 5.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2–8.7%, P < .01) absolute risk increase, was seen in 90-day mortality during the strike (n = 598) compared with the rest of the study period 2000–2015 (n = 75 647).

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacteraemia: 61 cases in a tertiary hospital in Denmark

BACKGROUND

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen and a dreaded cause of bacteraemia with 30-day mortality rates ranging from 14 to 69%. The purpose of this cohort study was to evaluate outcomes of S. maltophilia bacteraemia, at Rigshospitalet, a tertiary hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark.

METHODS

We included all patients with a blood culture positive for S. maltophilia, from January 1, 2015 to April 1, 2020. We extracted data on antimicrobial susceptibility, treatment, central venous catheter intervention and severe haematological disease.

RESULTS

Sixty-one cases of S. maltophilia bacteraemia were identified. The overall 90-day mortality was 18%. Sixty percent of patients had a central venous catheter intervention performed. Seventy-nine percent of patients were treated with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX). Patients with central venous catheter intervention had significantly better survival than those without (HR: 0.16 [95% CI: 0.03-0.73]). Severe haematological disease and patients, who received intensive care unit (ICU) care, were at higher risk of death than other patients (HR: 5.93 [95% CI: 1.18 - 29.94] and HR: 8.37 [95% CI: 1.79 - 39.20], respectively). We found no evidence that any antibiotic regime was superior with regard to 90-day mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not find evidence to support a change in the current standard-of-care regimen of TMP/SMX and CVC removal. Larger clinical trials are needed to guide such recommendations.

Bacterial and fungal bloodstream infections in solid organ transplant recipients: results from a Danish cohort with nationwide follow-up

OBJECTIVES

Bloodstream infections (BSI) are prevalent after solid organ transplantation (SOT). In this study, we aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors for BSI in the first 5 years post-transplantation.

METHODS

The study included 1322 SOT (kidney, liver, lung and heart) recipients transplanted from 2010 to 2017 with a total of 5616 years of follow-up. Clinical characteristics and microbiology were obtained from the Centre of Excellence for Personalized Medicine of Infectious Complications in Immune Deficiency (PERSIMUNE) data repository with nationwide follow-up. Incidence was investigated in the different SOT groups. Risk factors associated with BSI were assed in the combined group in time-updated multivariable Cox regressions.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of first BSI in the first 5 years post-transplantation differed in the SOT groups with a lower incidence in heart transplant recipients than in the other SOT groups (heart: 4.4%, CI 0.0-9.7%, vs. kidney: 24.6%, CI 20.9-28.2%, liver: 24.7%, CI 19.4-29.9%, and lung: 19.6%, CI 14.5-24.8%, p <0.001). Age above 55 years (HR 1.71, CI 1.2-2.4, p=0.002) and higher Charlson comorbidity index score (HR per unit increase: 1.25, CI 1.1-1.4, p<0.001) at transplantation, current cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection (HR 4.5, CI 2.6-7.9, p<0.001) and current leucopenia (HR 13.3, CI 3.7-47.9, p<0.001) were all associated with an increased risk of BSI.

CONCLUSION

In SOT recipients, the incidence of BSI differed with the type of transplanted organ. Risk of BSI was higher in older recipients and in recipients with comorbidity, current CMV infection or leucopenia. Thus, increased attention towards BSI in recipients with these characteristics is warranted.

Bacterial and fungal bloodstream infections in pediatric liver and kidney transplant recipients

Background

Bacterial and fungal bloodstream infections (BSI) are common after pediatric liver and kidney transplantations and associated with morbidity and mortality. However, knowledge about incidence rates, pathogen composition, and resistance patterns is limited. We aimed to describe the pattern of bacterial and fungal BSI in a cohort of pediatric liver and kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

A prospective study of 85 pediatric liver and kidney transplant recipients transplanted from 2010 to 2017 with a total of 390 person-years of follow-up. Clinical characteristics and BSI were retrieved from national registries assuring nationwide follow-up for at least 1 year. BSI incidence rates and pathogen composition were investigated and stratified by the time post-transplantation and type of transplanted organ.

Results

A total of 29 BSI were observed within the first 5 years post-transplantation with 16 different pathogens. The overall incidence rate of first BSI was 1.91 per 100 recipients per month (95% CI, 1.1–3.1) in the first year post-transplantation. The most common pathogens were Enterococcus faecium, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The pathogen composition depended on the transplanted organ with a higher proportion of BSI with Enterobacterales in kidney transplant recipients than in liver transplant recipients (67% vs. 20%, p = 0.03), while multiple pathogens were detected in the liver transplant recipients.

Conclusions

BSI were common in pediatric liver and kidney transplant recipients and the pathogen composition differed between liver and kidney transplant recipients. Guidelines for empiric antibiotic therapy should consider the type of transplanted organ as well as the local resistance patterns.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06224-2.

Decrease in All-Cause 30-Day Mortality after Bacteraemia over a 15-Year Period: A Population-Based Cohort Study in Denmark in 2000-2014

INTRODUCTION

Bacteraemia is a frequent infectious condition that strongly affects morbidity and mortality. The incidence is increasing worldwide. This study explores all-cause 30-day mortality after bacteraemia in two out of Denmark's five healthcare regions with approximately 2.4 million inhabitants.

METHODS

Clinically significant bacteraemia episodes (n = 55,257) were identified from a geographically well-defined background population between 2000 and 2014, drawing on population-based data regarding bacterial species and vital status. All-cause 30-day mortality was assessed in relation to bacteraemia episodes, number of patients with analysed blood cultures and the background population.

RESULTS

We observed a decreasing trend of all-cause 30-day mortality between 2000 and 2014, both in relation to the number of bacteraemia episodes and the background population. Mortality decreased from 22.7% of the bacteraemia episodes in 2000 to 17.4% in 2014 (annual IRR [95% CI]: 0.983 [0.979-0.987]). In relation to the background population, there were 41 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2000, decreasing to 39 in 2014 (annual IRR [95% CI]: 0.988 [0.982-0.993]). Numbers of inhabitants, bacteraemia episodes, and analysed persons having BCs increased during the period.

CONCLUSIONS

All-cause 30-day mortality in patients with bacteraemia decreased significantly over a 15-year period.

Light-guided nudging and data-driven performance feedback improve hand hygiene compliance among nurses and doctors

Background

Evidence-based practices to increase hand hygiene compliance (HHC) among health care workers are warranted. We aimed to investigate the effect of a multimodal strategy on HHC.

Methods

During this 14-month prospective, observational study, an automated monitoring system was implemented in a 29-bed surgical ward. Hand hygiene opportunities and alcohol-based hand rubbing events were measured in patient and working rooms (medication, utility, storerooms, toilets). We compared baseline HHC of health care workers across periods with light-guided nudging from sensors on dispensers and data-driven performance feedback (multimodal strategy) using the Student's t test.

Results

The doctors (n = 10) significantly increased their HHC in patient rooms (16% vs 42%, P< .0001) and working rooms (24% vs 78%, P= .0006) when using the multimodal strategy. The nurses (n = 26) also increased their HHC significantly from baseline in both patient rooms (27% vs 43%, P = .0005) and working rooms (39% vs 64%, P< .0001). The nurses (n = 9), who subsequently received individual performance feedback, further increased HHC, compared with the period when they received group performance feedback (patient rooms: 43% vs 55%, P< .0001 and working rooms: 64% vs 80%, P< .0001).

Conclusions

HHC of doctors and nurses can be significantly improved with light-guided nudging and data-driven performance feedback using an automated hand hygiene system.

Comparable outcomes of short-course and prolonged-course therapy in selected cases of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia:A pooled cohort study

BACKGROUND

The recommended duration of antimicrobial treatment for Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) is a minimum of 14 days. We compared the clinical outcomes of patients receiving short-course (SC), 6-10 days, or prolonged-course (PC), 10-16 days, antibiotic therapy for low risk methicillin-susceptible SAB (MS-SAB).

METHODS

Adults with MS-SAB in 1995-2018 were included from three independent retrospective cohorts. Logistic regression models fitted with inverse probability of treatment weighting were used to assess the association between the primary outcome of 90-day mortality and treatment duration for the individual cohorts as well as a pooled cohort analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 645, 219 and 141 patients with low risk MS-SAB were included from Cohort I, II and III. Median treatment duration in the three SC groups were 8 days (interquartile range [IQR] 7-10), 9 days (IQR 8-10), and 8 days (IQR 7-10). In the PC groups patients received a median therapy of 14 days (IQR 13-15), 14 days (IQR 13-15) and 13 days (IQR 12-15). No significant differences in 90-day mortality were observed between the SC and PC group in Cohort I (Odds ratio [OR] 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49-1.41), Cohort II (OR 1.24, 95% CI 0.60-2.62) nor Cohort III (OR 1.15, 95% CI 0.24-4.019). This result was consistent in the pooled cohort analysis (OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.71-1.51). Furthermore, duration of therapy was not associated with the risk of relapse.

CONCLUSION

In patients with low risk MS-SAB, shorter courses of antimicrobial therapy yielded similar clinical outcomes compared to longer courses of therapy.

COVID-19 infection rate among tertiary referral center otorhinolaryngology healthcare workers

Importance

Otorhinolaryngology is considered one of the medical specialties with a high risk for exposure to corona disease 2019 (COVID-19). Uncontrolled transmission in a hospital department poses a risk to both healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients.

Objective

To monitor SARS-CoV-2 incidence, transmission, and antibody development among HCWs to identify high risk procedures, pathways, and work areas within the department.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of HCWs using repetitive oro- and nasopharygeal swab samples, antibody tests, and self-reported symptoms questionnaires at a tertiary referral center in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Results

347/361 (96%) HCWs participated. Seven (1.9%) were positive on swab tests and none had symptoms. Fifteen (4.2%) developed antibodies. Only one case of potential transmission between HCWs was identified. Infection rates were low and no procedures or areas within the department were identified as exposing HCWs to a higher risk.

Conclusions and relevance

Adherence to the surveillance program was high. The low incidence among HCW during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic may reflect local transmission and infection control precautions, as well as a low infectious burden in the Danish society.

Intravenous mecillinam compared with other β-lactams as targeted treatment for Escherichia coli or Klebsiella spp. bacteraemia with urinary tract focus

BACKGROUND

Mecillinam (amdinocillin) is active against Gram-negative bacteria. Clinical data on the efficacy of IV mecillinam for severe urinary tract infections is sparse.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of targeted IV mecillinam compared with other β-lactams for bacteraemia with Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. and a urinary tract focus.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study at five university hospitals in the Capital Region of Denmark from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2017. We used Cox proportional hazard regression to compare the primary composite endpoint (all-cause mortality or bacteraemia recurrence within 30 days) between patients treated with mecillinam versus ampicillin, cefuroxime, piperacillin/tazobactam and meropenem.

RESULTS

We included 1129 patients in the primary analysis, of which 146 were given IV mecillinam as targeted treatment. We found no significant difference in the primary endpoint between patients treated with mecillinam versus ampicillin and cefuroxime, but found a higher risk for the primary endpoint in the piperacillin/tazobactam and meropenem groups, with adjusted HRs of 2.22 (95% CI 1.24-3.97, P < 0.01) and 2.48 (95% CI 1.04-5.93, P = 0.04), respectively, compared with mecillinam.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that IV mecillinam may be a suitable targeted treatment for bacteraemia with a urinary tract focus. However, these results need confirmation by randomized controlled studies.

[Early switch from intravenous to oral antibiotic treatment]

During the latest decades, the efficacy and safety of an early switch from intravenous to oral antibiotics has been the topic of several investigations. In this review, we summarise the results of studies, which have shown that it is safe to treat mild infections with oral antibiotics only. For more severe infections, three days of intravenous antibiotics followed by oral antibiotics is typically sufficient. There are several benefits of early switch therapy including easier administration and lower expenses. The most frequently prescribed intravenous antibiotics have oral formulations or oral alternatives with a high bioavailability.

Prevalence and recurrence of bacteraemia in hospitalised people who inject drugs - a single Centre retrospective cohort study in Denmark

Background

People who inject drugs (PWID) have increased risk of acquiring blood-transmitted chronic viral infections such as Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) as well as increased risk of acquiring bacterial infections. We aimed to identify and describe bacteraemic episodes, their recurrence rates, predictive and prognostic factors amongst hospitalised PWID.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we included 257 hospitalised PWID during 2000–2006 with follow up at the Department of Infectious Diseases, Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark. Data collection included comorbidity (HBV-, HCV-, HIV-, and psychiatric comorbidities), social information (contact to an addiction treatment centre, homelessness), opioid substitution treatment (OST), treatment completion and microbiology findings. There was a 10-years follow-up regarding mortality.

Results

The study identified 257 patients classified as PWID. Of these, 58 (22.6%) had at least one episode of bacteraemia during their first hospital admission. Recurrence was found in 29 (50.0%) of the bacteraemia cases. Staphylococcus aureus was the dominant microorganism of both first and recurrent episodes with 24 (41.4%) and nine (31.4%) of cases, respectively. A psychiatric diagnose was significantly associated with a lower risk of bacteraemia in the multivariate analysis (OR: 0.29, [95%CI: 0.11–0.77], P = 0.01). Mortality was significantly higher in patients with bacteraemia (17.2% vs. 3.0%, P < 0.01, OR: 6.67 [95%CI: 2.33–20], P < 0.01).

Conclusions

In hospitalised PWID, bacteraemia was found in 22.6% and was associated with at higher mortality. The most common microorganism of bacteraemia was S. aureus. Psychiatric comorbidity was significantly associated with a lower risk of bacteraemia.

LRE-Finder, a Web tool for detection of the 23S rRNA mutations and the optrA, cfr, cfr(B) and poxtA genes encoding linezolid resistance in enterococci from whole-genome sequences

OBJECTIVES

In enterococci, resistance to linezolid is often mediated by mutations in the V domain of the 23S rRNA gene (G2576T or G2505A). Furthermore, four genes [optrA, cfr, cfr(B) and poxtA] encode linezolid resistance in enterococci. We aimed to develop a Web tool for detection of the two mutations and the four genes encoding linezolid resistance in enterococci from whole-genome sequence data.

METHODS

LRE-Finder (where LRE stands for linezolid-resistant enterococci) detected the fraction of Ts in position 2576 and the fraction of As in position 2505 of the 23S rRNA and the cfr, cfr(B), optrA and poxtA genes by aligning raw sequencing reads (fastq format) with k-mer alignment. For evaluation, fastq files from 21 LRE isolates were submitted to LRE-Finder. As negative controls, fastq files from 1473 non-LRE isolates were submitted to LRE-Finder. The MICs of linezolid were determined for the 21 LRE isolates. As LRE-negative controls, 26 VRE isolates were additionally selected for linezolid MIC determination.

RESULTS

LRE-Finder was validated and showed 100% concordance with phenotypic susceptibility testing. A cut-off of 10% mutations in position 2576 and/or position 2505 was set in LRE-Finder for predicting a linezolid resistance phenotype. This cut-off allows for detection of a single mutated 23S allele in both Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium, while ignoring low-level sequencing noise.

CONCLUSIONS

A Web tool for detection of the 23S rRNA mutations (G2576T and G2505A) and the optrA, cfr, cfr(B) and poxtA genes from whole-genome sequences from enterococci is now available online.

Molecular characterization of Danish ESBL/AmpC-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from bloodstream infections, 2018

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to molecularly characterize third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from bloodstream infections in Denmark in 2018 using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data, and to compare these isolates to the most common clones detected in 2006 and 2008.

METHODS

Sixty-two extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)/AmpC-producing K. pneumoniae isolates from Danish blood cultures from 2018 were analysed using WGS to obtain multilocus sequence typing (MLST), core genome MLST (cgMLST), resistance profile and phylogeny. These were compared to the most common ESBL K. pneumoniae clones detected in 2006 and 2008.

RESULTS

The most common ESBL clone was ST15 CTX-M-15, the DHA-1 enzyme was the most common in AmpC isolates, and the OXA-48-like group was the most common carbapenemase. Thirty-nine different sequence types (STs) were found, with the most frequent being ST14, ST15 and ST37, accounting for 24% of the isolates. The isolates were subdivided into 55 complex types (CTs) of which 49 were singletons, with the most frequent being ST14-CT2080. Two of the CTX-M-15-producing isolates from 2018 belonged to the ST15-CT105/CT3078 clone, which was first detected in 2006.

CONCLUSIONS

The ESBL/AmpC K. pneumoniae isolates detected in Danish blood cultures belonged to many different types. No dominant clones were circulating in Danish hospitals, but the ST15-CT105/CT3078 CTX-M-15 K. pneumoniae clone was seen 13 years after its first detection.

Clinical experiences with a new system for automated hand hygiene monitoring: A prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Hand hygiene compliance (HHC) among health care workers remains suboptimal, and good monitoring systems are lacking. We aimed to evaluate HHC using an automated monitoring system.

METHODS

A prospective, observational study was conducted at 2 Danish university hospitals employing a new monitoring system (Sani nudge). Sensors were located on alcohol-based sanitizers, health care worker name tags, and patient beds measuring hand hygiene opportunities and sanitations.

RESULTS

In total, 42 nurses were included with an average HHC of 52% and 36% in hospitals A and B, respectively. HHC was lowest in patient rooms (hospital A: 45%; hospital B: 29%) and highest in staff toilets (hospital A: 72%; hospital B: 91%). Nurses sanitized after patient contact more often than before, and sanitizers located closest to room exits and in hallways were used most frequently. There was no association found between HHC level and the number of beds in patient rooms. The HHC level of each nurse was consistent over time, and showed a positive correlation between the number of sanitations and HHC levels (hospital A: r = 0.69; hospital B: r = 0.58).

CONCLUSIONS

The Sani nudge system can be used to monitor HHC at individual and group levels, which increases the understanding of compliance behavior.

Mutational change of CTX-M-15 to CTX-M-127 resulting in mecillinam resistant Escherichia coli during pivmecillinam treatment of a patient

Pivmecillinam (amdinocillin pivoxil) is the recommended first-choice antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) in Denmark. The frequency of mutation to mecillinam (MEC) resistance is described as high in vitro; however, treatment of UTI has a good clinical response and prevalence of mecillinam resistance in Escherichia coli remains low despite many years of use. We describe occurrence of in vivo mecillinam resistance in a clinical isolate of ESBL-producing E. coli following pivmecillinam treatment. The identified phenotypic differences in the mecillinam resistant isolate compared with the original mecillinam susceptible isolate were a full-length LPS with O-antigen (O25), mecillinam resistance and a lower MIC for ceftazidime. Regarding genotype, the resistant isolate differed with a mutation in blaCTX-M-15 to blaCTX-M-127 , loss of a part of a plasmid and a genomic island, respectively, and insertion of a transposase in wbbL, causing the rough phenotype. The observed mecillinam resistance is expected to be caused by the mutation in blaCTX-M-15 with additional contribute from the serotype shift. We continue to recommend the use of pivmecillinam as first-line treatment for UTI.

Associations between blood cultures after surgery for colorectal cancer and long-term oncological outcomes

BACKGROUND

Systemic inflammation following curative surgery for colorectal cancer may be associated with increased risk of recurrence. [Correction added on 29 November 2019, after first online publication: text amended for accuracy.] This study investigated whether a clinically suspected infection, for which blood cultures were sent within 30 days after surgery for colorectal cancer, was associated with long-term oncological outcomes.

METHODS

This register-based national cohort study included all Danish residents undergoing surgery with curative intent for colorectal cancer between January 2003 and December 2013. Patients who developed recurrence or died within 180 days after surgery were not included. Associations between blood cultures taken within 30 days after primary surgery and overall survival, disease-free survival and recurrence-free survival were analysed using Cox regression models adjusted for relevant clinical confounders, including demographic data, cancer stage, co-morbidity, blood transfusion, postoperative complications and adjuvant chemotherapy.

RESULTS

The study included 21 349 patients, of whom 3390 (15·9 per cent) had blood cultures taken within 30 days after surgery. Median follow-up was 5·6 years. Patients who had blood cultures taken had an increased risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 1·27, 95 per cent c.i. 1·20 to 1·35; P < 0·001), poorer disease-free survival (HR 1·22, 1·16 to 1·29; P < 0·001) and higher risk of recurrence (HR 1·15, 1·07 to 1·23; P < 0·001) than patients who did not have blood cultures taken.

CONCLUSION

A clinically suspected infection requiring blood cultures within 30 days of surgery for colorectal cancer was associated with poorer oncological outcomes.

212. Outcomes of Adults with Uncomplicated Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia Receiving Short-Course Vs. Prolonged-Course Antibiotic Therapy in a Multicenter, Propensity Score–Matched Cohort

Background

The recommended duration of antibiotic treatment for uncomplicated Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections is 14 days. We compared the outcomes of patients receiving short-course (6–10 days) vs. prolonged-course (11–16 days) antibiotic therapy for S. aureus bacteremia (SAB).

Methods

30-day outcome of patients with penicillin (PSSAB, n = 202)) or methicillin-susceptible SAB (MSSAB, n = 203) treated with in vitro active therapy in the range of 6–16 days was analyzed using pooled data from two previously published, observational studies. Individuals were matched 1:1 by nearest neighbor propensity score matching without replacement. Regression analysis was performed to estimate the risk of all-cause mortality within 30 days after the end of antibiotic treatment. Eligible individuals had to have >1 day of follow-up after discontinuation of antimicrobials. Individuals with a diagnosis of endocarditis, bone infection, meningitis or pneumonia were excluded.

Results

There were 107 well-balanced matched pairs; 58 in the PSSAB and 39 in the MSSAB cohort. For PSSAB, the median duration of therapy was 8 (interquartile range [IQR], 7–10) in the short-course group and 12 days (IQR, 10–13) in the prolonged-course group. For the MSSAB cohort, these numbers were 9 days (IQR, 7–10) and 14 days (IQR, 13–16 days), respectively. No difference in mortality between short-course and prolonged-course treatment was observed (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], .23–2.41) and 1.14; 95% CI, 0.31–4.20), respectively for PSSAB and MSSAB.

Conclusion

Short courses of antibiotic therapy yielded similar clinical outcomes as prolonged courses of antibiotic therapy for S. aureus bacteremia. The findings warrant a randomized clinical trial to study the safety and efficacy of shortened antimicrobial therapy for the treatment of uncomplicated SAB.

Disclosures

All authors: No reported disclosures.

Listeria Meningitis in Danish Children 2000-2017: A Rare Event Even in a Country With High Rates of Invasive Listeriosis

Listeria monocytogenes meningitis in Danish children 1 month to 17 years from 2000 to 2017 was identified and patient files reviewed. There were 5 cases, equaling an annual incidence of 0.024 per 100,000 children or 0.014 when excluding 2 immunodeficient children. Even in a country with a high general incidence of listeriosis, Listeria meningitis is a rare event in healthy children.

Three versus five days of pivmecillinam for community-acquired uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled superiority trial

BACKGROUND

To investigate if a 5-day course pivmecillinam (amdinocillin pivoxil) 400 mg three times daily is superior to a 3-day course in women with uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI).

METHODS

A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted at nine primary care centres in Denmark. 368 women (18-70 years) with symptoms compatible with UTI were randomised to blinded therapy of 5 days [5d] or 3 days followed by 2 days of placebo [3d] from May 2015 to November 2017. Clinical data were assessed using a validated questionnaire at inclusion (day-0), daily the following 7 days and once again within the 2nd to 6th week after intervention. Bacteriological data were collected prior to intervention and twice between day 7 and 42. Main clinical endpoints were days to symptom resolution within 7 days after inclusion and proportions with clinical success at the end of intervention. Main bacteriological endpoint was proportion of participants with significant reduction of bacteriuria (≥ 10² CFU/mL) in 1st control urine sample. ClinicalTrialsRegister.eu: 2014-001321-32.

FINDINGS

180 (5d) and 188 (3d) participants were included in the study (mean age: 35.4 [5d] and 34.9 [3d]). Of these, 125 (70% [5d]) and 122 (66% [3d]) had a positive baseline urine culture. Forty-four participants were lost to follow-up, leaving 161 [5d] and 163 [3d] participants for analysis, respectively. Mean time to symptom resolution was 2.91 (SD 1.46; [5d]) days and 2.94 (SD 1.42; [3d]) days (P = .894). Clinical success at the end of treatment occurred for 117 of 153 (76%) receiving the 5d-course and for 115 of 157 (73%) receiving the 3d course (difference 3.2% [95% CI -7.1% - 13.5%]; P = .601). Bacteriological success was seen in 92 of 104 (88%) participants given the 5d course and in 86 of 99 (87%) given the 3d course (difference 1.6% [95% CI -8.4%-11.6%]; P = .895).

INTERPRETATIONS

A 5-day course of pivmecillinam was not superior to a 3-day course in clinical or bacteriological outcomes for UTI.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

The Danish Regions [no. 14/217].

Pivmecillinam compared to other antimicrobials for community-acquired urinary tract infections with Escherichia coli, ESBL-producing or not - a retrospective cohort study

Objectives

To compare the therapeutic effect of pivmecillinam and other common oral antibiotics for community-acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)- or non-ESBL-producing Escherichia coli.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study from 2010 to mid-2016 with data from the regional Laboratory Database and three national databases on antibiotic prescriptions, hospital admission, and mortality, respectively. Primary care patients (≥18 years) empirically treated for UTI caused by non-ESBL- or ESBL-producing E. coli (non-ESBL and ESBL E. coli) were included. Seven antibiotics, commonly used empirically for UTI, were investigated. Treatment failure measured as the redemption of a new antibiotic prescription or admission to hospital due to UTI. Cox proportional hazard ratios and adjusted risk differences along with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for 14 and 30 days, respectively.

Results

Thirty-six thousand two hundred and ninety-three (95.7%) and 1624 (4.3%) cases were included in the non-ESBL and ESBL groups, respectively. Male sex, high age, ESBL production, and resistance to empirical therapy were found to independently increase the risk of treatment failure. Compared to pivmecillinam, ciprofloxacin had significantly lower treatment failure for non-ESBL E. coli, but significantly higher treatment failure in ESBL E. coli. There was no significant difference between nitrofurantoin and pivmecillinam.

Conclusion

All antibiotics seem to have a higher risk of treatment failure for UTI caused by ESBL-producing E. coli as compared to non-ESBL-producing E. coli. At present, nitrofurantoin and pivmecillinam seem to be the most relevant orally available therapies for E. coli UTI. Local resistance data should guide which of the two that should be the contemporary first-line option.

Treatment duration of pivmecillinam in men, non-pregnant and pregnant women for community-acquired urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli: a retrospective Danish cohort study

Objectives

To evaluate the importance of treatment duration for therapeutic efficacy of pivmecillinam for community-acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Escherichia coli.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted between 1 January 2010 and 30 September 2016 in adults with community-acquired E. coli bacteriuria, treated empirically with pivmecillinam. Regimens of 3, 5 and 7 days were compared using clinical treatment failure (i.e. redemption of a new antibiotic or hospitalization due to UTI) within 14 and 30 days as outcome. HR and risk difference with 95% CI were estimated for treatment failure. Results were stratified by age (18–50, 51–70, >70 years) and sex.

Results

Of the 21864 cases of E. coli UTI that were analysed, 2524 (11.5%) were in men. In 954 cases (4.4%) E. coli produced ESBL and 125 (13.1%) of the cases were in men. The 3 day regimen increased the risk of treatment failure for all groups. The risk differences between the 3 and 5 day regimens were <10% for women, but >10% for men. Comparing the 7 day and 5 day regimens, only women aged >50 years demonstrated an increased risk of treatment failure within 14 days with the 5 day regimen, but not within 30 days.

Conclusions

With the current data, where data on clinical classification of the E. coli UTI were missing, a 5 day treatment with pivmecillinam at 400 mg three times daily seems to be the rational recommendation for lower UTI in men, pregnant women and women >50 years old. A 3 day regimen seems sufficient for non-pregnant women <50 years old.

Cefuroxime compared to piperacillin/tazobactam as empirical treatment of Escherichia coli bacteremia in a low Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) prevalence cohort

Objectives: On January 18, 2010, a part of the capital region of Denmark shifted the empirical treatment of febrile conditions from cefuroxime to piperacillin/tazobactam. We compare empirical treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam versus cefuroxime for Escherichia coli bacteremia with regard to 14 days mortality, in a low prevalence cohort of Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli. Methods: From January 18, 2010 to December 31, 2012, we conducted a retrospective cohort study including patients with E. coli bacteremia from six university hospitals in Copenhagen, Denmark. Clinical and laboratory information was obtained from a bacteremia research database, including information on comorbidity, and we used Cox proportional hazard analysis to asses all-cause 14 days mortality. Results: A total of 568 patients receiving either cefuroxime (n=377) or piperacillin/tazobactam (n=191) as empirical therapy were included. In the Cox proportional hazard model, cefuroxime treatment was significantly associated with death (mortality rate ratio 3.95, CI 1.12-13.90). Other variables associated with death were health care related infection (MRR 3.20, CI 1.67-6.15), hospital-acquired infection (MRR 2,17, CI 1.02-4.62), admission at intensive care unit (MRR 20.45, 5.31-78.82), and combination therapy with ciprofloxacin (MRR 2.14, CI 0.98-4.68). Conclusion: Empiric cefuroxime treatment of E. coli bacteremia was significantly associated with higher 14 days mortality in comparison with piperacillin/tazobactam.

Pivmecillinam for Uncomplicated Lower Urinary Tract Infections Caused by Staphylococcus saprophyticus-Cumulative Observational Data from Four Recent Clinical Studies

Objectives: To investigate pivmecillinam´s efficacy in uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by Staphylococcus saprophyticus-considered non-susceptible to mecillinam. Methods: Participants with confirmed UTIs caused by S. saprophyticus from four randomized controlled trials, where pivmecillinam was empirically given to females with symptoms of UTIs. The primary outcome was defined as a cumulative clinical effect-symptom resolution during the first eight days of therapy, without a recurrence of UTI symptoms in the long-term follow-up (approximately four weeks). Secondary outcomes included the bacteriological effect-elimination of the causative agent, with or without new uropathogenic bacteria present in the first control urine sample. Significant bacteriuria was defined as ≥103 bacteria/mL. The antibiotic susceptibility testing was done by disc diffusion methodology, according to the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). Results: Seventy-four females (18-55 years) were empirically treated with pivmecillinam for UTIs caused by S. saphrophyticus (mean age 25 years; standard deviation (SD) 5.8). The cumulative clinical effect was 53/74 (72%), and the bacteriological effect was 51/59 (86%). Conclusion: Pivmecillinam showed a high clinical and bacteriological effect in UTIs caused by S. saprophyticus in these four clinical trials. The characterization of non-susceptibility for mecillinam regarding the treatment of UTIs caused by this common pathogen may need to be revised.

Comparison of methods for measuring antibiotic consumption in an intensive care unit

Hospitals worldwide are working on minimizing unnecessary use of antimicrobials. To assess actual changes of antimicrobial usage, correct and precise measurements are necessary. This study aimed to compare data on the purchase of antibiotics from the pharmacy and the administration of antibiotics to patients, respectively, in an intensive care unit (ICU). Data were obtained from the Neurointensive Care Unit (NICU) at Rigshospitalet, Denmark. During a 23-month period, comprising 10 770 bed-days (BD), the ward purchased 16 908 defined daily doses (DDD) of antibiotics from the pharmacy, and 15 130 DDD and 41 304 individual doses were administered. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated; control and runcharts and a Bland-Altman plot were constructed. Pharmacy sales and drug administration data showed no systematic variation over time with a monthly overestimation of pharmacy sales data of 10% (95% confidence interval (CI), 6.20-14.3%) for all antibiotics, and 7% (95% CI: 1.81-11.1%) for broad-spectrum antibiotics. The antibiotic consumption, without bed-days, has a clinically acceptable ICC of >0.70 and no systematic difference is suggested by the Bland-Altman plot. In this study of a large NICU, whose antibiotic consumption varied at random, pharmacy sales data were an acceptable approximation of the actual summarized drug consumption.

Mecillinam for the treatment of acute pyelonephritis and bacteremia caused by Enterobacteriaceae: a literature review

Purpose

The pharmacokinetic properties of mecillinam (MEC) for urinary tract infections are excellent, and the resistance rate in Enterobacteriaceae is low compared to other recommended antibiotics. The oral prodrug pivmecillinam (P-MEC) has been used successfully as first choice for cystitis in the Nordic countries for many years. Norwegian and Danish guidelines also recommend P-MEC for acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis (AUP) and intravenous (IV) MEC for suspected urosepsis (only in Denmark). Here, we wish to present an updated investigation on the clinical data behind these recommendations together with sparse but more current clinical data.

Methods

Prospective clinical trials evaluating MEC as monotherapy or in polytherapy with one other beta-lactam (mostly ampicillin [AMP]) for pyelonephritis or bacteremia were reviewed. Outcomes of primary interest were clinical and bacteriological success and relapse, respectively. Search databases used were PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase.

Results

Twelve clinical studies (1979-2015) were included in this integrated literature review. Clinical success was seen in 38/51 (75%) patients treated with MEC as monotherapy and in 152/164 (93%) patients treated with MEC and one other beta-lactam. Bacteriological success was seen in 35/47 (74%) and 117/167 (70%) patients treated with MEC alone and with one other beta-lactam, respectively. In complicated infections, bacteriological success was much lower. Clinical relapse rate was not well described. Several uropathogenic bacteremia cases were treated successfully with MEC alone (ie, 10/15 [67%] and 13/15 [87%] for clinical and bacteriological success, respectively) or with one other beta-lactam (ie, 57/65 [88%] and 53/63 [84%] for clinical and bacteriological success, respectively). However, data on bacteremia are very sparse. Adverse reactions were few and mild (73/406 [18%]) and primarily seen when AMP was co-administered (69/73 [95%]). No serious adverse reactions were reported.

Conclusion

IV MEC or oral P-MEC for 14 days may be suitable for the treatment of AUP and pediatric pyelonephritis. Randomized controlled trials using a single standardized dose of P-MEC compared to other current recommendations are warranted. Similarly, more evidence is required before MEC should be recommended for bacteremia or sepsis due to Enterobacteriaceae.

WGS-based surveillance of third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli from bloodstream infections in Denmark

Objectives

To evaluate a genome-based surveillance of all Danish third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli (3GC-R Ec ) from bloodstream infections between 2014 and 2015, focusing on horizontally transferable resistance mechanisms.

Methods

A collection of 552 3GC-R Ec isolates were whole-genome sequenced and characterized by using the batch uploader from the Center for Genomic Epidemiology (CGE) and automatically analysed using the CGE tools according to resistance profile, MLST, serotype and fimH subtype. Additionally, the phylogenetic relationship of the isolates was analysed by SNP analysis.

Results

The majority of the 552 isolates were ESBL producers (89%), with bla CTX-M-15 being the most prevalent (50%) gene, followed by bla CTX-M-14 (14%), bla CTX-M-27 (11%) and bla CTX-M-101 (5%). ST131 was detected in 50% of the E. coli isolates, with the remaining isolates belonging to 73 other STs, including globally disseminated STs (e.g. ST10, ST38, ST58, ST69 and ST410). Five of the bloodstream isolates were carbapenemase producers, carrying bla OXA-181 (3) and bla OXA-48 (2). Phylogenetic analysis revealed 15 possible national outbreaks during the 2 year period, one caused by a novel ST131/ bla CTX-M-101 clone, here observed for the first time in Denmark. Additionally, the analysis revealed three individual cases with possible persistence of closely related clones collected more than 13 months apart.

Conclusions

Continuous WGS-based national surveillance of 3GC-R Ec , in combination with more detailed epidemiological information, can improve the ability to follow the population dynamics of 3GC-R Ec , thus allowing for the detection of potential outbreaks and the effects of changing treatment regimens in the future.

Asymptomatic Carriers Contribute to Nosocomial Clostridium difficile Infection: A Cohort Study of 4508 Patients

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Nosocomial infections with Clostridium difficile present a considerable problem despite numerous attempts by health care workers to reduce risk of transmission. Asymptomatic carriers of C difficile can spread their infection to other patients. We investigated the effects of asymptomatic carriers on nosocomial C difficile infections.

METHODS

We performed a population-based prospective cohort study at 2 university hospitals in Denmark, screening all patients for toxigenic C difficile in the intestine upon admittance, from October 1, 2012, to January 31, 2013. Screening results were blinded to patients, staff, and researchers. Patients were followed during their hospital stay by daily registration of wards and patient rooms. The primary outcomes were rate of C difficile infection in exposed and unexposed patients and factors associated with transmission.

RESULTS

C difficile infection was detected in 2.6% of patients not exposed to carriers and in 4.6% of patients exposed to asymptomatic carriers at the ward level (odds ratio for infection if exposed to carrier, 1.79; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-2.76). Amount of exposure correlated with risk of C difficile infection, from 2.2% in the lowest quartile to 4.2% in the highest quartile of exposed patients (P = .026). Combining the load of exposure to carriers and length of stay seemed to have an additive effect on the risk of contracting C difficile.

CONCLUSIONS

In a population-based prospective cohort study in Denmark, we found that asymptomatic carriers of toxigenic C difficile in hospitals increase risk of infection in other patients.

[Talaromyces marneffei fungaemia in a patient from Thailand with newly diagnosed HIV]

Talaromyces marneffei is a dimorphic fungus, which may cause life-threatening opportunistic infections in immuno-compromised individuals. A 25-year-old woman from Thailand was admitted with fever, shortness of breath, cough, and weight loss. The symptoms had persisted for three weeks. The patient had a stopover in Copenhagen on her way to Thailand from Greenland. A thoracic X-ray showed bilateral interstitial changes. Examinations showed positive HIV-test with a CD4-count of 21/microlitre. Moreover, fungaemia with T. marneffei was detected by cultivation. Highly active antiretroviral therapy and IV amphotericin B treatment was initiated followed by perorally administrated itraconazole.

The efficacy of pivmecillinam: 3 days or 5 days t.i.d against community acquired uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections - a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial study protocol

BACKGROUND

Uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (LUTI) are very common, and presumably around 200,000 female patients are treated for this annually in Denmark. The current Danish national clinical practice guidelines recommend pivmecillinam as a first-line drug (i.e., 400 mg t.i.d. for 3 days). Pivmecillinam is also one of the first-line drugs recommended in the international guidelines for LUTIs (i.e., 400 mg b.i.d. for 5 days). The international recommended duration is based on evidence saying that a 7-day regimen is better than a 3-day regimen. However, no data says that a 5-day regimen is superior to a 3-day regimen. With this study we aim to identify and to compare the efficacy of pivmecillinam 400 mg t.i.d in a 3-day respectively 5-day regimen, against community acquired uncomplicated LUTI, i.e., in women at the age of 18-70 year old.

METHOD/DESIGN

The general practitioner will at consultation give a suitable patient the opportunity to participate in the study. If the patient will give her consent, a double-blinded kit (i.e., the antibiotic with/without placebo, questionnaires and self-urinary samples) will be given to the patient. We aim for 161 evaluable patients in each arm.

DISCUSSION

Pivmecillinam is an excellent choice against urinary tract infections and we believe this study will fill in the gaps and strengthen the evidence on the treatment against one of the most common infections in our society. Thus, aiming to provide a more rational and ecological beneficial antimicrobial therapy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

EudraCTno.: 2014-001321-32 .

Antibiotic treatment and mortality in patients with Listeria monocytogenes meningitis or bacteraemia

Invasive Listeria monocytogenes infections carry a high mortality despite antibiotic treatment. The rareness of the infection makes it difficult to improve antibiotic treatment through randomized clinical trials. This observational study investigated clinical features and outcome of invasive L. monocytogenes infections including the efficacy of empiric and definitive antibiotic therapies. Demographic, clinical and biochemical findings, antibiotic treatment and 30-day mortality for all episodes of L. monocytogenes bacteraemia and/or meningitis were collected by retrospective medical record review in the North Denmark Region and the Capital Region of Denmark (17 hospitals) from 1997 to 2012. Risk factors for 30-day all-cause mortality were assessed by logistic regression. The study comprised 229 patients (median age: 71 years), 172 patients had bacteraemia, 24 patients had meningitis and 33 patients had both. Significant risk factors for 30-day mortality were septic shock (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.4-6.4), altered mental state (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.7-7.6) and inadequate empiric antibiotic therapy (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.8-8.1). Cephalosporins accounted for 90% of inadequately treated cases. Adequate definitive antibiotic treatment was administered to 195 patients who survived the early period (benzylpenicillin 72, aminopenicillin 84, meropenem 28, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim 6, and piperacillin/tazobactam 5). Definitive antibiotic treatment with benzylpenicillin or aminopenicillin resulted in a lower 30-day mortality in an adjusted analysis compared with meropenem (OR 0.3; 95% CI 0.1-0.8). In conclusion, inadequate empiric antibiotic therapy and definitive therapy with meropenem were both associated with significantly higher 30-day mortality.

Point-of-care procalcitonin test to reduce antibiotic exposure in patients hospitalized with acute exacerbation of COPD

Background

This study was conducted to investigate whether point-of-care (POC) procalcitonin (PCT) measurement can reduce redundant antibiotic treatment in patients hospitalized with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD).

Methods

One-hundred and twenty adult patients admitted with AECOPD were enrolled in this open-label randomized trial. Patients were allocated to either the POC PCT-guided intervention arm (n=62) or the control arm, in which antibiotic therapy followed local guidelines (n=58).

Results

The median duration of antibiotic exposure was 3.5 (interquartile range [IQR] 0–10) days in the PCT-arm vs 8.5 (IQR 1–11) days in the control arm (P=0.0169, Wilcoxon) for the intention-to-treat population. The proportion of patients using antibiotics for ≥5 days within the 28-day follow-up was 41.9% (PCT-arm) vs 67.2% (P=0.006, Fisher’s exact) in the intention-to-treat population. For the per-protocol population, the proportions were 21.1% (PCT-arm) vs 73.9% (P<0.00001, Fisher’s exact). Within 28-day follow-up, one patient died in the PCT-arm and two died in the control arm. A composite harm end point consisting of death, rehospitalization, or intensive care unit admission, all within 28 days, showed no apparent difference.

Conclusion

Our study shows that the implementation of a POC PCT-guided algorithm can be used to substantially reduce antibiotic exposure in patients hospitalized with AECOPD, with no apparent harm.

"Population structure of drug-susceptible,-resistant and ESBL-producing Escherichia coli from community-acquired urinary tract"

Background

Escherichia coli is the most common cause of urinary tract infection (UTI). The pathogenic isolates are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics; with a worldwide dissemination of resistant sequence types (ST). We characterized three different uropathogenic E. coli populations, from non-hospitalized patients to describe the genetic kinship between resistant and susceptible isolates. We studied the populations by use of multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and abbreviated-multi locus variable number of tandem repeat analysis (a-MLVA). Urine samples submitted for testing, by general practitioners, were identified at Dept. of Clinical Microbiology at Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark, from Oct. 2011 to July 2012. We included 94 fully susceptible, 94 resistant (non-ESBL) and 98 Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamases- (ESBL)-producing E. coli isolates.

Results

The ESBL population was dominated vastly by ST131 (51 %), ST38 (9 %) and ST69 (6 %). In the resistant group ST69 (18 %), ST73 (11 %) and ST131 (15 %) were the largest clusters. In the susceptible population more STs and a-MLVA codes were identified compared to the other groups and ST73 and ST95 were found as the only clusters with 16 % and 6 %, respectively. Ninety-eight per cent of the ESBL-producing E. coli isolates were CTX-M-producers.

Conclusion

ST131 dominated the population of community-associated uropathogenic ESBL-producing E. coli, but was less frequent among non-ESBL-producing E. coli. The fully susceptible E. coli population was a much more diverse group than the resistant and ESBL-producing E. coli populations. Overall, these findings suggest that dominant ESBL-producing lineages are derived from UPEC lineages already established in the general UPEC population.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12866-016-0681-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.