Monocentric, Retrospective Study on Infectious Complications within One Year after Solid-Organ Transplantation at a Belgian University Hospital

The epidemiology, diagnostic methods and management of infectious complications after solid-organ transplantation (SOT) are evolving. The aim of our study is to describe current infectious complications in the year following SOT and risk factors for their development and outcome. We conducted a retrospective study in adult SOT recipients in a Belgian university hospital between 2018 and 2019. We gathered demographic characteristics, comorbidities leading to transplantation, clinical, microbiological, surgery-specific and therapeutic data concerning infectious episodes, and survival status up to one year post-transplantation. Two-hundred-and-thirty-one SOT recipients were included (90 kidneys, 79 livers, 35 lungs, 19 hearts and 8 multiple organs). We observed 381 infections in 143 (62%) patients, due to bacteria (235 (62%)), viruses (67 (18%)), and fungi (32 (8%)). Patients presented a median of two (1-5) infections, and the first infection occurred during the first six months. Nineteen (8%) patients died, eleven (58%) due to infectious causes. Protective factors identified against developing infection were obesity [OR [IC]: 0.41 [0.19-0.89]; p = 0.025] and liver transplantation [OR [IC]: 0.21 [0.07-0.66]; p = 0.007]. Risk factors identified for developing an infection were lung transplantation [OR [IC]: 6.80 [1.17-39.36]; p = 0.032], CMV mismatch [OR [IC]: 3.53 [1.45-8.64]; p = 0.006] and neutropenia [OR [IC]: 2.87 [1.27-6.47]; p = 0.011]. Risk factors identified for death were inadequate cytomegalovirus prophylaxis, infection severity and absence of pneumococcal vaccination. Post-transplant infections were common. Addressing modifiable risk factors is crucial, such as pneumococcal vaccination.

Efficacy and safety of rezafungin and caspofungin in candidaemia and invasive candidiasis: pooled data from two prospective randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Rezafungin, a new US Food and Drug Administration-approved, long-acting echinocandin to treat candidaemia and invasive candidiasis, was efficacious with a similar safety profile to caspofungin in clinical trials. We conducted pooled analyses of the phase 2 STRIVE and phase 3 ReSTORE rezafungin trials.

METHODS

ReSTORE was a multicentre, double-blind, double-dummy, randomised phase 3 trial conducted at 66 tertiary care centres in 15 countries. STRIVE was a multicentre, double-blind, double-dummy, randomised phase 2 trial conducted at 44 centres in 10 countries. Adults (≥18 years) with candidaemia or invasive candidiasis were treated with once-a-week intravenous rezafungin (400 mg and 200 mg) or once-a-day intravenous caspofungin (70 mg and 50 mg). Efficacy was evaluated in a pooled modified intent-to-treat (mITT) population. Primary efficacy endpoint was day 30 all-cause mortality (tested for non-inferiority with a pre-specified margin of 20%). Secondary efficacy endpoint was mycological response. Safety was also evaluated. The STRIVE and ReSTORE trials are registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02734862 and NCT03667690, and both studies are complete.

FINDINGS

ReSTORE was conducted from Oct 12, 2018, to Oct 11, 2021, and STRIVE from July 26, 2016, to April 18, 2019. The mITT population, pooling the data from the two trials, comprised 139 patients for rezafungin and 155 patients for caspofungin. Day 30 all-cause mortality rates were comparable between groups (19% [26 of 139] for the rezafungin group and 19% [30 of 155] for the caspofungin group) and the upper bound of the 95% CI for the weighted treatment difference was below 10% (-1·5% [95% CI -10·7 to 7·7]). Mycological eradication occurred by day 5 in 102 (73%) of 139 rezafungin patients and 100 (65%) of 155 caspofungin patients (weighted treatment difference 10·0% [95% CI -0·3 to 20·4]). Safety profiles were similar across groups.

INTERPRETATION

Rezafungin was non-inferior to caspofungin for all-cause mortality, with a potential early treatment benefit, possibly reflecting rezafungin's front-loaded dosing regimen. These findings are of clinical importance in fighting active and aggressive infections and reducing the morbidity and mortality caused by candidaemia and invasive candidiasis.

FUNDING

Melinta Therapeutics and Cidara Therapeutics.

Towards a better detection of patients at-risk of linezolid toxicity in clinical practice: a prospective study in three Belgian hospital centers

Introduction: Linezolid is a last-resort antibiotic for infections caused by multidrug-resistant microorganisms. It is widely used for off-label indications and for longer than recommended treatment durations, exposing patients at higher risk of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), notably thrombocytopenia. This study aimed to investigate ADR incidence and risk factors, identify thrombocytopenia-related trough levels based on treatment duration, and evaluate the performance of predictive scores for ADR development. Methods: Adult in- and outpatients undergoing linezolid therapy were enrolled in three hospitals and ADRs and linezolid trough levels prospectively monitored over time. A population pharmacokinetic (pop-PK model) was used to estimate trough levels for blood samples collected at varying times. Results: A multivariate analysis based on 63 treatments identified treatment duration ≥10 days and trough levels >8 mg/L as independent risk factors of developing thrombocytopenia, with high trough values correlated with impaired renal function. Five patients treated for >28 days did not develop thrombocytopenia but maintained trough values in the target range (<8 mg/L). The Buzelé predictive score, which combines an age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index with treatment duration, demonstrated 77% specificity and 67% sensitivity to predict the risk of ADR. Conclusion: Our work supports the necessity of establishing guidelines for dose adjustment in patients with renal insufficiency and the systematic use of TDM in patients at-risk in order to keep trough values ≤8 mg/L. The Buzelé predictive score (if ≥7) may help to detect these at-risk patients, and pop-PK models can estimate trough levels based on plasma samples collected at varying times, reducing the logistical burden of TDM in clinical practice.

Association between SARS-CoV-2 viral kinetics and clinical score evolution in hospitalized patients

The role of antiviral treatment in coronavirus disease 2019 hospitalized patients is controversial. To address this question, we analyzed simultaneously nasopharyngeal viral load and the National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS-2) using an effect compartment model to relate viral dynamics and the evolution of clinical severity. The model is applied to 664 hospitalized patients included in the DisCoVeRy trial (NCT04315948; EudraCT 2020-000936-23) randomly assigned to either standard of care (SoC) or SoC + remdesivir. Then we use the model to simulate the impact of antiviral treatments on the time to clinical improvement, defined by a NEWS-2 score lower than 3 (in patients with NEWS-2 <7 at hospitalization) or 5 (in patients with NEWS-2 ≥7 at hospitalization), distinguishing between patients with low or high viral load at hospitalization. The model can fit well the different observed patients trajectories, showing that clinical evolution is associated with viral dynamics, albeit with large interindividual variability. Remdesivir antiviral activity was 22% and 78% in patients with low or high viral loads, respectively, which is not sufficient to generate a meaningful effect on NEWS-2. However, simulations predicted that antiviral activity greater than 99% could reduce by 2 days the time to clinical improvement in patients with high viral load, irrespective of the NEWS-2 score at hospitalization, whereas no meaningful effect was predicted in patients with low viral loads. Our results demonstrate that time to clinical improvement is associated with time to viral clearance and that highly effective antiviral drugs could hasten clinical improvement in hospitalized patients with high viral loads.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Antimicrobials in Critically Ill Obese Patients

Obesity is a significant global public health concern that is associated with an elevated risk of comorbidities as well as severe postoperative and nosocomial infections. The treatment of infections in critically ill obese patients can be challenging because obesity affects the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antibiotics, leading to an increased risk of antibiotic therapy failure and toxicity due to inappropriate dosages. Precision dosing of antibiotics using therapeutic drug monitoring may help to improve the management of this patient population. This narrative review outlines the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes that result from obesity and provides a comprehensive critical review of the current available data on dosage adjustment of antibiotics in critically ill obese patients.

Ensuring quality control in a COVID-19 clinical trial during the pandemic: The experience of the Inserm C20-15 DisCoVeRy study

SETTING

Health measures taken during the pandemic deeply modified the clinical research practices. At the same time, the demand for the results of the COVID-19 trials was urgent. Thus, the objective of this article is to share Inserm's experience in ensuring quality control in clinical trials in this challenging context.

OBJECTIVES

DisCoVeRy is a phase III randomized study that aimed at evaluating the safety and efficacy of 4 therapeutic strategies in hospitalized COVID-19 adult patients. Between March, 22nd 2020 and January, 20th 2021, 1309 patients were included. In order to guarantee the best quality of data, the Sponsor had to adapt to the current sanitary measures and to their impact on clinical research activity, notably by adapting Monitoring Plan objectives, involving the research departments of the participating hospitals and a network of clinical research assistants (CRAs).

RESULTS

Overall, 97 CRAs were involved and performed 909 monitoring visits. The monitoring of 100% of critical data for all patients included in the analysis was achieved, and despite of the pandemic context, a conform consent was recovered for more than 99% of patients. Results of the study were published in May and September 2021.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

The main monitoring objective was met thanks to the mobilization of considerable personnel resources, within a very tight time frame and external hurdles. There is a need for further reflection to adapt the lessons learned from this experience to the context of routine practice and to improve the response of French academic research during a future epidemic.

Management of pharmacovigilance during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis by the safety department of an academic sponsor: Lessons learnt and challenges from the EU DisCoVeRy clinical trial

The current COVID-19 pandemic was an exceptional health situation, including for drug use. As there was no known effective drug for COVID-19 at the beginning of the pandemic, different drug candidates were proposed. In this article, we present the challenges for an academic Safety Department to manage the global safety of a European trial during the pandemic. The National Institute for Health and Medical Research (Inserm) conducted a European multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled trial involving three repurposed and one-in development drugs (lopinavir/ritonavir, IFN-β1a, hydroxychloroquine, and remdesivir) in adults hospitalized with COVID-19. From 25 March 2020 to 29 May 2020, the Inserm Safety Department had to manage 585 Serious Adverse Events (SAEs) initial notification and 396 follow-up reports. The Inserm Safety Department's staff was mobilized to manage these SAEs and to report Expedited safety reports to the competent authorities within the legal timeframes. More than 500 queries were sent to the investigators due to a lack of or incoherent information on SAE forms. At the same time, the investigators were overwhelmed by the management of patients suffering from COVID-19 infection. These particular conditions of missing data and lack of accurate description of adverse events made evaluation of the SAEs very difficult, particularly the assessment of the causal role of each investigational medicinal product. In parallel, working difficulties were accentuated by the national lockdown, frequent IT tool dysfunctions, delayed implementation of monitoring and the absence of automatic alerts for SAE form modification. Although COVID-19 is a confounding factor per se, the delay in and quality of SAE form completion and the real-time medical analysis by the Inserm Safety Department were major issues in the quick identification of potential safety signals. To conduct a high-quality clinical trial and ensure patient safety, all stakeholders must take their roles and responsibilities.

Implementing Alfred60AST in a clinical lab: Clinical impact on the management of septic patients and financial analysis

INTRODUCTION

Sepsis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. An accelerated microbiology diagnosis is crucial in order to reduce the time to initiate targeted antibiotic therapy. The Alfred60AST system is able to provide phenotypic Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) results within hours. This study has two objectives: assess the clinical impact of this technology and determine its cost-effectiveness.

METHODS

During a ten-week period, all new enterobacterial or enterococcal bloodstream infection was analyzed with the Alfred60AST system, in parallel with routine methods. Its impact on the clinician's therapeutic strategy was studied. In order to assess the financial and practical aspects of the method, an analysis of the extracosts and a survey of the technical staff were conducted.

RESULTS

Fifty-three cases of bacteriemia were included. For the Enterobacteriaceae bacteriemias, a clinical impact was shown in 18.9% of the cases (e.g, treatment modification). The financial analysis highlighted an increase in costs (+38% for Enterobacteriaceae, +50% for Enterococci), compared to the theoretical costs reported by the firm, due to the workflow and the volumes of samples used. Finally, results of the technical staff survey were favorable in terms of ease of use of the system.

CONCLUSION

In addition to its ease of use, the Alfred60AST system is able to provide an AST in a record time. This study shows a real interest of the technique in the therapeutic management of patients with enterobacterial sepsis. However, its routine implementation requires an increase of the analyzed volumes as well as a 24/7 organization of the laboratory in order to be profitable.

Implementation of a centralized pharmacovigilance system in academic pan-European clinical trials: Experience from EU-Response and conect4children consortia

Setting-up a high quality, compliant and efficient pharmacovigilance (PV) system in multi-country clinical trials can be more challenging for academic sponsors than for companies. To ensure the safety of all participants in academic studies and that the PV system fulfils all regulations, we set up a centralized PV system that allows sponsors to delegate work on PV. This initiative was put in practice by our Inserm-ANRS MIE PV department in two distinct multinational European consortia with 19 participating countries: conect4children (c4c) for paediatrics research and EU-Response for Covid-19 platform trials. The centralized PV system consists of some key procedures to harmonize the complex safety processes, creation of a local safety officer (LSO) network and centralization of all safety activities. The key procedures described the safety management plan for each trial and how tasks were shared and delegated between all stakeholders. Processing of serious adverse events (SAEs) in a unique database guaranteed the full control of the safety data and continuous evaluation of the risk-benefit ratio. The LSO network participated in efficient regulatory compliance across multiple countries. In total, there were 1312 SAEs in EU-Response and 83 SAEs in c4c in the four trials. We present here the lessons learnt from our experience in four clinical trials. We managed heterogeneous European local requirements and implemented efficient communication with all trial teams. Our approach builds capacity for PV that can be used by multiple academic sponsors.

Immunogenicity of an adjuvanted SARS-CoV-2 trimeric S-protein subunit vaccine (SCB-2019) in SARS-CoV-2-naïve and exposed individuals in a phase 2/3, double-blind, randomized study

BACKGROUND

We evaluated immunogenicity of SCB-2019, a subunit vaccine candidate containing a pre-fusion trimeric form of the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S)-protein adjuvanted with CpG-1018/alum.

METHODS

The phase 2/3, double-blind, randomized SPECTRA trial was conducted in five countries in participants aged ≥ 18 years, either SARS-CoV-2-naïve or previously exposed. Participants were randomly assigned to receive two doses of SCB-2019 or placebo administered intramuscularly 21 days apart. In the phase 2 part of the study, on days 1, 22, and 36, neutralizing antibodies were measured by pseudovirus and wild-type virus neutralization assays to SARS-CoV-2 prototype and variants, and ACE2-receptor-binding antibodies and SCB-2019-binding antibodies were measured by ELISA. Cell-mediated immunity was measured by intracellular cytokine staining via flow cytometry.

RESULTS

1601 individuals were enrolled between 24 March and 13 September 2021 and received at least one vaccine dose. Immunogenicity analysis was conducted in a phase 2 subset of 691 participants, including 428 SARS-CoV-2-naïve (381 vaccine and 47 placebo recipients) and 263 SARS-CoV-2-exposed (235 vaccine and 28 placebo recipients). In SARS-CoV-2-naïve participants, GMTs of neutralizing antibodies against prototype virus increased 2 weeks post-second dose (day 36) compared to baseline (224 vs 12.7 IU/mL). Seroconversion rate was 82.5 %. In SARS-CoV-2-exposed participants, one SCB-2019 dose increased GMT of neutralizing antibodies by 48.3-fold (1276.1 IU/mL on day 22) compared to baseline. Seroconversion rate was 92.4 %. Increase was marginal post-second dose. SCB-2019 also showed cross-neutralization capability against nine variants, including Omicron, in SARS-CoV-2-exposed participants at day 36. SCB-2019 stimulated Th1-biased cell-mediated immunity to the S-protein in both naïve and exposed participants. The vaccine was well tolerated, no safety concerns were raised from the study.

CONCLUSIONS

A single dose of SCB-2019 was immunogenic in SARS-CoV-2-exposed individuals, whereas two doses were required to induce immune response in SARS-CoV-2-naïve individuals. SCB-2019 elicited a cross-neutralizing response against emergent SARS-CoV-2 variants at antibody levels associated with clinical protection, underlining its potential as a booster.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov: NCT04672395; EudraCT: 2020-004272-17.

Analysis of a Combined HBHA and ESAT-6-Interferon-γ-Release Assay for the Diagnosis of Tuberculous Lymphadenopathies

Background and Objectives: The incidence of tuberculosis lymphadenopathy (TBLA) is increasing, and diagnostic procedures lack sensitivity and are often highly invasive. TBLA may be asymptomatic, and differential diagnosis with other adenopathies (ADPs) is difficult. We evaluated a blood-cell interferon-γ release assay (IGRA) with two different stage-specific mycobacterial antigens for the differential diagnosis of ADP suspected of mycobacterial origin. Methods: Twenty-one patients were included and divided into three groups: (1) cervical/axillar ADP (n = 8), (2) mediastinal ADP (n = 10), and (3) disseminated ADP (n = 3). The mycobacterial antigens used for the IGRA were the heparin-binding haemagglutinin (HBHA) and the early-secreted antigenic target-6 (ESAT-6), a latency-associated antigen and a bacterial replication-related antigen, respectively. Diagnosis of TBLA based on microbiological results and/or response to anti-TB treatment was obtained for 15 patients. Results: An IGRA profile highly suggestive of active TB (higher IFN-γ response to ESAT-6 compared to HBHA) was found for 3/6 TBLA patients from group 1, and for all the TBLA patients from groups 2 and 3, whereas this profile was not noticed in patients with a final alternative diagnosis. Conclusion: These results highlight the potential value of this combined HBHA/ESAT-6 IGRA as a triage test for the differential diagnosis of ADP.

Incidence and clinical and microbiological features of invasive and probable invasive streptococcal group A infections in children and adults in the Brussels-Capital Region, 2005-2020

Assess the incidence, risk factors, clinical and microbiological features, and outcome of both probable invasive and invasive group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in children and adults in the BrusselsCapital Region between 2005 and 2020. A retrospective, multicentric study was performed in three university hospitals in Brussels. Patients were identified through the centralized laboratory information system. Epidemiological and clinical data were collected from patients' hospital records. A total of 467 cases were identified. Incidence has increased from 2.1 to 10.9/100,000 inhabitants between 2009 and 2019 in non-homeless adults while it was above 100/100,000 on homeless in years with available denominators. Most of GAS were isolated from blood (43.6%), and the most common clinical presentation was skin and soft tissue infections (42.8%). A third of all the patients needed surgery, a quarter was admitted to the intensive care unit, and 10% of the adult patients died. Wounds and chickenpox disease were the main risk factors for children. Tobacco, alcohol abuse, wounds or chronic skin lesion, being homeless, and diabetes were identified as major predisposing factors for adults. The most common emm clusters were D4, E4, and AC3; 64% of the isolates were theoretically covered by the 30-valent M-protein vaccine. The burden of invasive and probable invasive GAS infections is on the rise in the studied adult population. We identified potential interventions that could contribute to decrease this burden: appropriate care of wounds, specifically among homeless and patients with risk factors such as diabetes and systematic chickenpox vaccination for children.

Effects of remdesivir in patients hospitalised with COVID-19: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Interpretation of the evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of remdesivir in patients treated in hospital for COVID-19 is conflicting. We aimed to assess the benefits and harms of remdesivir compared with placebo or usual care in these patients, and whether treatment effects differed between prespecified patient subgroups.

METHODS

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane COVID-19 trial registry, ClinicalTrials.gov, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and preprint servers from Jan 1, 2020, until April 11, 2022, for RCTs of remdesivir in adult patients hospitalised with COVID-19, and contacted the authors of eligible trials to request individual patient data. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at day 28 after randomisation. We used multivariable hierarchical regression-adjusting for respiratory support, age, and enrollment period-to investigate effect modifiers. This study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42021257134.

FINDINGS

Our search identified 857 records, yielding nine RCTs eligible for inclusion. Of these nine eligible RCTs, individual data were provided for eight, covering 10 480 patients hospitalised with COVID-19 (99% of such patients included in such RCTs worldwide) recruited between Feb 6, 2020, and April 1, 2021. Within 28 days of randomisation, 662 (12·5%) of 5317 patients assigned to remdesivir and 706 (14·1%) of 5005 patients assigned to no remdesivir died (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0·88, 95% CI 0·78-1·00, p=0·045). We found evidence for a credible subgroup effect according to respiratory support at baseline (p_interaction=0·019). Of patients who were ventilated-including those who received high-flow oxygen-253 (30·0%) of 844 patients assigned to remdesivir died compared with 241 (28·5%) of 846 patients assigned to no remdesivir (aOR 1·10 [0·88-1·38]; low-certainty evidence). Of patients who received no oxygen or low-flow oxygen, 409 (9·1%) of 4473 patients assigned to remdesivir died compared with 465 (11·2%) of 4159 patients assigned to no remdesivir (0·80 [0·70-0·93]; high-certainty evidence). No credible subgroup effect was found for time to start of remdesivir after symptom onset, age, presence of comorbidities, enrolment period, or corticosteroid use. Remdesivir did not increase the frequency of severe or serious adverse events.

INTERPRETATION

This individual patient data meta-analysis showed that remdesivir reduced mortality in patients hospitalised with COVID-19 who required no or conventional oxygen support, but was underpowered to evaluate patients who were ventilated when receiving remdesivir. The effect size of remdesivir in patients with more respiratory support or acquired immunity and the cost-effectiveness of remdesivir remain to be further elucidated.

FUNDING

EU-RESPONSE.

Efficacy and safety of baricitinib in hospitalized adults with severe or critical COVID-19 (Bari-SolidAct): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial

BACKGROUND

Baricitinib has shown efficacy in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, but no placebo-controlled trials have focused specifically on severe/critical COVID, including vaccinated participants.

METHODS

Bari-SolidAct is a phase-3, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, enrolling participants from June 3, 2021 to March 7, 2022, stopped prematurely for external evidence. Patients with severe/critical COVID-19 were randomised to Baricitinib 4 mg once daily or placebo, added to standard of care. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality within 60 days. Participants were remotely followed to day 90 for safety and patient related outcome measures.

RESULTS

Two hundred ninety-nine patients were screened, 284 randomised, and 275 received study drug or placebo and were included in the modified intent-to-treat analyses (139 receiving baricitinib and 136 placebo). Median age was 60 (IQR 49-69) years, 77% were male and 35% had received at least one dose of SARS-CoV2 vaccine. There were 21 deaths at day 60 in each group, 15.1% in the baricitinib group and 15.4% in the placebo group (adjusted absolute difference and 95% CI - 0.1% [- 8·3 to 8·0]). In sensitivity analysis censoring observations after drug discontinuation or rescue therapy (tocilizumab/increased steroid dose), proportions of death were 5.8% versus 8.8% (- 3.2% [- 9.0 to 2.7]), respectively. There were 148 serious adverse events in 46 participants (33.1%) receiving baricitinib and 155 in 51 participants (37.5%) receiving placebo. In subgroup analyses, there was a potential interaction between vaccination status and treatment allocation on 60-day mortality. In a subsequent post hoc analysis there was a significant interaction between vaccination status and treatment allocation on the occurrence of serious adverse events, with more respiratory complications and severe infections in vaccinated participants treated with baricitinib. Vaccinated participants were on average 11 years older, with more comorbidities.

CONCLUSION

This clinical trial was prematurely stopped for external evidence and therefore underpowered to conclude on a potential survival benefit of baricitinib in severe/critical COVID-19. We observed a possible safety signal in vaccinated participants, who were older with more comorbidities. Although based on a post-hoc analysis, these findings warrant further investigation in other trials and real-world studies. Trial registration Bari-SolidAct is registered at NCT04891133 (registered May 18, 2021) and EUClinicalTrials.eu ( 2022-500385-99-00 ).

Drug Regimens of Novel Antibiotics in Critically Ill Patients with Varying Renal Functions: A Rapid Review

There is currently an increase in the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria (MDR) worldwide, requiring the development of novel antibiotics. However, it is not only the choice of antibiotic that is important in treating an infection; the drug regimen also deserves special attention to avoid underdosing and excessive concentrations. Critically ill patients often have marked variation in renal function, ranging from augmented renal clearance (ARC), defined as a measured creatinine clearance (CrCL) ≥ 130 mL/min*1.73 m², to acute kidney injury (AKI), eventually requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT), which can affect antibiotic exposure. All novel beta-lactam (BLs) and/or beta-lactam/beta-lactamases inhibitors (BL/BLIs) antibiotics have specific pharmacokinetic properties, such as hydrophilicity, low plasma–protein binding, small volume of distribution, low molecular weight, and predominant renal clearance, which require adaptation of dosage regimens in the presence of abnormal renal function or RRT. However, there are limited data on the topic. The aim of this review was therefore to summarize available PK studies on these novel antibiotics performed in patients with ARC or AKI, or requiring RRT, in order to provide a practical approach to guide clinicians in the choice of the best dosage regimens in critically ill patients.

Immuno-Diagnosis of Active Tuberculosis by a Combination of Cytokines/Chemokines Induced by Two Stage-Specific Mycobacterial Antigens: A Pilot Study in a Low TB Incidence Country

Active tuberculosis (aTB) remains a major killer from infectious disease, partially due to delayed diagnosis and hence treatment. Classical microbiological methods are slow and lack sensitivity, molecular techniques are costly and often unavailable. Moreover, available immuno-diagnostic tests lack sensitivity and do not differentiate between aTB and latent TB infection (LTBI). Here, we evaluated the performance of the combined measurement of different chemokines/cytokines induced by two different stage-specific mycobacterial antigens, Early-secreted-antigenic target-6 (ESAT-6) and Heparin-binding-haemagglutinin (HBHA), after a short in vitro incubation of either peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) or whole blood (WB). Blood samples were collected from a training cohort comprising 22 aTB patients, 22 LTBI subjects and 17 non-infected controls. The concentrations of 13 cytokines were measured in the supernatants. Random forest analysis identified the best markers to differentiate M. tuberculosis-infected from non-infected subjects, and the most appropriate markers to differentiate aTB from LTBI. Logistic regression defined predictive abilities of selected combinations of cytokines, first on the training and then on a validation cohort (17 aTB, 27 LTBI, 25 controls). Combining HBHA- and ESAT-6-induced IFN-γ concentrations produced by PBMC was optimal to differentiate infected from non-infected individuals in the training cohort (100% correct classification), but 2/16 (13%) patients with aTB were misclassified in the validation cohort. ESAT-6-induced-IP-10 combined with HBHA-induced-IFN-γ concentrations was selected to differentiate aTB from LTBI, and correctly classified 82%/77% of infected subjects as aTB or LTBI in the training/validation cohorts, respectively. Results obtained on WB also selected ESAT-6- and HBHA-induced IFN-γ concentrations to provided discrimination between infected and non-infected subjects (89%/90% correct classification in the training/validation cohorts). Further identification of aTB patients among infected subjects was best achieved by combining ESAT-6-induced IP-10 with HBHA-induced IL-2 and GM-CSF. Among infected subjects, 90%/93% of the aTB patients were correctly identified in the training/validation cohorts. We therefore propose a two steps strategy performed on 1 mL WB for a rapid identification of patients with aTB. After elimination of most non-infected subjects by combining ESAT-6 and HBHA-induced IFN-γ, the combination of IP-10, IL-2 and GM-CSF released by either ESAT-6 or HBHA correctly identifies most patients with aTB.

Ensuring target concentrations of antibiotics in critically ill patients through dose adjustment

INTRODUCTION

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed in critical care, and given the large variability of pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters in these patients, drug PK frequently varies during therapy with the risk of either treatment failure or toxicity. Therefore, adequate antibiotic dosing in critically ill patients is very important.

AREAS COVERED

This review provides an overview of the basic principles of PK and pharmacodynamics of antibiotics and the main patient and pathogen characteristics that may affect the dosage of antibiotics and different approaches to adjust doses.

EXPERT OPINION

Dose adjustment should be done for aminoglycosides and glycopeptides based on daily drug concentration monitoring. For glycopeptides, in particular vancomycin, the residual concentration (Cres) should be assessed daily. For beta-lactam antibiotics, a loading dose should be administered, followed by three different possible approaches, as TDM is rarely available in most centers: 1) antibiotic regimens should be adapted according to renal function and other risk factors; 2) nomograms or software can be used to calculate daily dosing; 3) TDM should be performed 24-48 h after the initiation of treatment; however, the results are required within 24 hours to appropriately adjust dosage regimens. Drug dosing should be reduced or increased according to the TDM results.

Antimicrobial susceptibly testing determined by Alfred 60/AST (Alifax®) in a multi-sites' lab: performance's evaluation and optimisation of workflow

PURPOSE

New techniques are needed to speed-up the identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) of bacteria associated with bloodstream infections. Alfred 60/AST (Alifax®, Polverara, Italy) performs AST by light scattering directly from positive blood cultures.

METHODS

We evaluated Alfred 60/AST performances for 4 months. Each new episode of bacteraemia was included and AST were compared to either our rapid automated AST (Vitek® 2) or disk diffusion method. The discrepancies were investigated using Etest®. The time-to-result (TTR) was evaluated by comparing the blood volume inserted into Alfred 60/AST, i.e. 2 versus 7 blood drops. Taking into account the TTR, the workflow of positive blood cultures and the availability of AST results was studied in order to optimize the implementation of Alfred 60/AST.

RESULTS

A total of 249 samples and 1108 antibiotics for AST were tested. After exclusion of unavailable results, 1008 antibiotics were analysed. 94.9% (n = 957/1008) of the antibiotics showed categorical agreement. There were 14 very major errors (VME), 24 major errors (ME) and 13 minor errors (mE). The VME were mostly related to clindamycin (64.3%) whereas meropenem and piperacillin-tazobactam constituted the major part (37.5% and 61.5%) of ME and mE respectively. Results were highly reliable for Enterobacterales and enterococci. The mean TTR ranged between 4.3 and 6.3 h and was statistically 20 min faster when applying the 7 blood drops protocol. We showed that Alfred 60/AST could give relievable results within working hours for positive blood culture which are flagged the same day between 12:00 am and 12:00 pm.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirmed that Alfred 60/AST gives reliable AST results in a short period of time, especially for Enterobacterales and enterococci. AST are thus obtained the same day of a positive blood culture. Clinical impact studies are mandatory to validate a 24/24 working.

Efficacy of the adjuvanted subunit protein COVID-19 vaccine, SCB-2019: a phase 2 and 3 multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

A range of safe and effective vaccines against SARS CoV 2 are needed to address the COVID 19 pandemic. We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine SCB-2019.

METHODS

This ongoing phase 2 and 3 double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was done in adults aged 18 years and older who were in good health or with a stable chronic health condition, at 31 sites in five countries (Belgium, Brazil, Colombia, Philippines, and South Africa). The participants were randomly assigned 1:1 using a centralised internet randomisation system to receive two 0·5 mL intramuscular doses of SCB-2019 (30 μg, adjuvanted with 1·50 mg CpG-1018 and 0·75 mg alum) or placebo (0·9% sodium chloride for injection supplied in 10 mL ampoules) 21 days apart. All study staff and participants were masked, but vaccine administrators were not. Primary endpoints were vaccine efficacy, measured by RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 of any severity with onset from 14 days after the second dose in baseline SARS-CoV-2 seronegative participants (the per-protocol population), and the safety and solicited local and systemic adverse events in the phase 2 subset. This study is registered on EudraCT (2020-004272-17) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04672395).

FINDINGS

30 174 participants were enrolled from March 24, 2021, until the cutoff date of Aug 10, 2021, of whom 30 128 received their first assigned vaccine (n=15 064) or a placebo injection (n=15 064). The per-protocol population consisted of 12 355 baseline SARS-CoV-2-naive participants (6251 vaccinees and 6104 placebo recipients). Most exclusions (13 389 [44·4%]) were because of seropositivity at baseline. There were 207 confirmed per-protocol cases of COVID-19 at 14 days after the second dose, 52 vaccinees versus 155 placebo recipients, and an overall vaccine efficacy against any severity COVID-19 of 67·2% (95·72% CI 54·3-76·8), 83·7% (97·86% CI 55·9-95·4) against moderate-to-severe COVID-19, and 100% (97·86% CI 25·3-100·0) against severe COVID-19. All COVID-19 cases were due to virus variants; vaccine efficacy against any severity COVID-19 due to the three predominant variants was 78·7% (95% CI 57·3-90·4) for delta, 91·8% (44·9-99·8) for gamma, and 58·6% (13·3-81·5) for mu. No safety issues emerged in the follow-up period for the efficacy analysis (median of 82 days [IQR 63-103]). The vaccine elicited higher rates of mainly mild-to-moderate injection site pain than the placebo after the first (35·7% [287 of 803] vs 10·3% [81 of 786]) and second (26·9% [189 of 702] vs 7·4% [52 of 699]) doses, but the rates of other solicited local and systemic adverse events were similar between the groups.

INTERPRETATION

Two doses of SCB-2019 vaccine plus CpG and alum provides notable protection against the entire severity spectrum of COVID-19 caused by circulating SAR-CoV-2 viruses, including the predominating delta variant.

FUNDING

Clover Biopharmaceuticals and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.

OUP accepted manuscript

Background

The antiviral efficacy of remdesivir in COVID-19 hospitalized patients remains controversial.

Objectives

To estimate the effect of remdesivir in blocking viral replication.

Methods

We analysed nasopharyngeal normalized viral loads from 665 hospitalized patients included in the DisCoVeRy trial (NCT 04315948; EudraCT 2020-000936-23), randomized to either standard of care (SoC) or SoC + remdesivir. We used a mathematical model to reconstruct viral kinetic profiles and estimate the antiviral efficacy of remdesivir in blocking viral replication. Additional analyses were conducted stratified on time of treatment initiation (≤7 or >7 days since symptom onset) or viral load at randomization (< or ≥3.5 log₁₀ copies/10⁴ cells).

Results

In our model, remdesivir reduced viral production by infected cells by 2-fold on average (95% CI: 1.5–3.2-fold). Model-based simulations predict that remdesivir reduced time to viral clearance by 0.7 days compared with SoC, with large inter-individual variabilities (IQR: 0.0–1.3 days). Remdesivir had a larger impact in patients with high viral load at randomization, reducing viral production by 5-fold on average (95% CI: 2.8–25-fold) and the median time to viral clearance by 2.4 days (IQR: 0.9–4.5 days).

Conclusions

Remdesivir halved viral production, leading to a median reduction of 0.7 days in the time to viral clearance compared with SoC. The efficacy was larger in patients with high viral load at randomization.

Perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy: retrospective analysis of bacteriological profile and susceptibility

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic tumours are frequently associated with obstructive jaundice requiring preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) before pancreatoduodenectomy (PD), exposing patients to infectious complications. This study aims to compare postoperative complications after PD with or without PBD and to analyse bile bacteriology and antibiotic susceptibility.

METHODS

All patients undergoing PD between 2014 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated, and postoperative outcomes were compared according to PBD use. Prophylactic narrow-spectrum antibiotic therapy was given for 24 h, then adapted according to bacteriologic profile. Intraoperative bile cultures and antibiograms were collected.

RESULTS

Among 164 patients with intraoperative bile culture during PD (75 PBD+, 89 PBD-), an infected bile was observed in 95% and 70% of PBD + and PBD- groups, respectively (p < 0.001). Postoperative mortality and severe morbidity including infectious complications were similar between groups (5% and 15%). The median duration of antibiotherapy was longer in PBD + compared to PBD- groups (9 vs. 2 days, p = 0.009). Malignant indication and PBD were associated with bile contamination using univariate analysis, and PBD was significantly relevant at multivariate analysis. Most common pathogens identified in bile cultures were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp. and Enterobacter spp. Overall antibiotic susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics was decreased, including those used in our local guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

PBD exposes nearly 100% of patients undergoing PD to bile infection and an increased duration of postoperative antimicrobial therapy, without increasing infectious complications in this study. Adaptation of antimicrobial prophylaxis should be further evaluated according to performance of PBD and local epidemiology, in order to avoid overuse of antibiotics.

Clinical Course and Risk Factors for Infection in Severe Forms of Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Infection is a major driver of mortality in patients with advanced alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). The epidemiology and clinical course of patients infected with life-threatening forms of ALD, including severe alcohol-associated hepatitis (sAH) and decompensated alcohol-associated cirrhosis (DAC), and specific risk factors for infection remain mostly unknown.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

In this observational study, we assessed all infectious episodes occurring within a 90-day period from diagnosis in all consecutive patients with biopsy-proven sAH (modified Maddrey's discriminant function ≥ 32, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease [MELD] ≥ 18) and DAC (MELD ≥ 18) without alcohol-associated hepatitis in our tertiary hospital between 2003 and 2016. A total of 207 patients were included: 139 with sAH and 68 with DAC. One hundred seventeen (84%) patients with sAH and 41 (60%) patients with DAC experienced at least one infection episode at 90 days (P < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, factors associated with the development of infection were the presence of sAH and baseline MELD score. Bacterial infections represented the most common infection in the two groups, and only the MELD score was independently associated with the occurrence of bacterial infection. In both groups, pneumonia was the most prevalent bacterial infection, and gram-negative bacilli were the main pathogens. Invasive fungal infections (IFI) occurred in 20 (14.5%) patients with sAH and 3 (4.5%) with patients with DAC (P < 0.05). Multivariable regression showed that younger age, higher MELD, and corticosteroid therapy were independently associated with IFI. The 90-day cumulative incidence of death in patients infected with sAH and patients infected with DAC was 46% and 41.5%, respectively (P = 0.43).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with sAH are more susceptible to develop infection than those with DAC. In life-threatening forms of ALD, patients who were infected share a similar mortality rate. Corticosteroid treatment, not sAH, seems to be the main risk factor triggering IFI.

Effect of anti-interleukin drugs in patients with COVID-19 and signs of cytokine release syndrome (COV-AID): a factorial, randomised, controlled trial

Background

Infections with SARS-CoV-2 continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality. Interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-6 blockade have been proposed as therapeutic strategies in COVID-19, but study outcomes have been conflicting. We sought to study whether blockade of the IL-6 or IL-1 pathway shortened the time to clinical improvement in patients with COVID-19, hypoxic respiratory failure, and signs of systemic cytokine release syndrome.

Methods

We did a prospective, multicentre, open-label, randomised, controlled trial, in hospitalised patients with COVID-19, hypoxia, and signs of a cytokine release syndrome across 16 hospitals in Belgium. Eligible patients had a proven diagnosis of COVID-19 with symptoms between 6 and 16 days, a ratio of the partial pressure of oxygen to the fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO₂:FiO₂) of less than 350 mm Hg on room air or less than 280 mm Hg on supplemental oxygen, and signs of a cytokine release syndrome in their serum (either a single ferritin measurement of more than 2000 μg/L and immediately requiring high flow oxygen or mechanical ventilation, or a ferritin concentration of more than 1000 μg/L, which had been increasing over the previous 24 h, or lymphopenia below 800/mL with two of the following criteria: an increasing ferritin concentration of more than 700 μg/L, an increasing lactate dehydrogenase concentration of more than 300 international units per L, an increasing C-reactive protein concentration of more than 70 mg/L, or an increasing D-dimers concentration of more than 1000 ng/mL). The COV-AID trial has a 2 × 2 factorial design to evaluate IL-1 blockade versus no IL-1 blockade and IL-6 blockade versus no IL-6 blockade. Patients were randomly assigned by means of permuted block randomisation with varying block size and stratification by centre. In a first randomisation, patients were assigned to receive subcutaneous anakinra once daily (100 mg) for 28 days or until discharge, or to receive no IL-1 blockade (1:2). In a second randomisation step, patients were allocated to receive a single dose of siltuximab (11 mg/kg) intravenously, or a single dose of tocilizumab (8 mg/kg) intravenously, or to receive no IL-6 blockade (1:1:1). The primary outcome was the time to clinical improvement, defined as time from randomisation to an increase of at least two points on a 6-category ordinal scale or to discharge from hospital alive. The primary and supportive efficacy endpoints were assessed in the intention-to-treat population. Safety was assessed in the safety population. This study is registered online with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04330638) and EudraCT (2020-001500-41) and is complete.

Findings

Between April 4, and Dec 6, 2020, 342 patients were randomly assigned to IL-1 blockade (n=112) or no IL-1 blockade (n=230) and simultaneously randomly assigned to IL-6 blockade (n=227; 114 for tocilizumab and 113 for siltuximab) or no IL-6 blockade (n=115). Most patients were male (265 [77%] of 342), median age was 65 years (IQR 54–73), and median Systematic Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score at randomisation was 3 (2–4). All 342 patients were included in the primary intention-to-treat analysis. The estimated median time to clinical improvement was 12 days (95% CI 10–16) in the IL-1 blockade group versus 12 days (10–15) in the no IL-1 blockade group (hazard ratio [HR] 0·94 [95% CI 0·73–1·21]). For the IL-6 blockade group, the estimated median time to clinical improvement was 11 days (95% CI 10–16) versus 12 days (11–16) in the no IL-6 blockade group (HR 1·00 [0·78–1·29]). 55 patients died during the study, but no evidence for differences in mortality between treatment groups was found. The incidence of serious adverse events and serious infections was similar across study groups.

Interpretation

Drugs targeting IL-1 or IL-6 did not shorten the time to clinical improvement in this sample of patients with COVID-19, hypoxic respiratory failure, low SOFA score, and low baseline mortality risk.

Funding

Belgian Health Care Knowledge Center and VIB Grand Challenges program.

Prediction of Insufficient Beta-Lactam Concentrations in Extracorporeal Membranous Oxygenation Patients

Background: The aim of this study was to identify predictors of insufficient beta-lactam concentrations in patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Methods: Retrospective analysis of all patients receiving ECMO support and treated with ceftazidime or cefepime (CEF), piperacillin/tazobactam (TZP), or meropenem (MEM). Trough drug concentrations (C_min) were measured before the subsequent dose, according to the decision of the attending physician. Insufficient drug concentrations were identified if C_min was below the clinical breakpoint of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Results: A total of 222 C_min (CEF, n = 41; TZP, n = 85; MEM, n = 96) from 110 patients were included; insufficient concentrations were observed in 26 (12%) antibiotic assessments; 21 (81%) of those occurred during MEM therapy. Insufficient C_min were associated with a shorter time from initiation of antibiotics to measurement, a lower single dose of antibiotic, a higher creatinine clearance (CrCL), lower sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores, and less use of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) when compared to others. Conclusions: Insufficient broad-spectrum beta-lactam concentrations were observed in 12% of drug measurement during ECMO therapy. Higher than recommended drug regimens could be considered in the very early phase of therapy and in those patients with augmented renal clearance and with less severe organ dysfunction.

Plasma zinc status and hyperinflammatory syndrome in hospitalized COVID-19 patients: An observational study

Zinc deficiency is associated with impaired antiviral response, cytokine releasing syndrome (CRS), and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Notably, similar complications are being observed during severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. We conducted a prospective, single-center, observational study in a tertiary university hospital (CUB-Hôpital Erasme, Brussels) to address the zinc status, the association between the plasma zinc concentration, development of CRS, and the clinical outcomes in PCR-confirmed and hospitalized COVID-19 patients. One hundred and thirty-nine eligible patients were included between May 2020 and November 2020 (median age of 65 years [IQR = 54, 77]). Our cohort's median plasma zinc concentration was 57 µg/dL (interquartile range [IQR] = 45, 67) compared to 74 µg/dL (IQR = 64, 84) in the retrospective non-COVID-19 control group (N = 1513; p < 0.001). Markedly, the absolute majority of COVID-19 patients (96%) were zinc deficient (<80 µg/dL). The median zinc concentration was lower in patients with CRS compared to those without CRS (-5 µg/dL; 95% CI = -10.5, 0.051; p = 0.048). Among the tested outcomes, zinc concentration is significantly correlated with only the length of hospital stay (rho = -0.19; p = 0.022), but not with mortality or morbidity. As such, our findings do not support the role of zinc as a robust prognostic marker among hospitalized COVID-19 patients who in our cohort presented a high prevalence of zinc deficiency. It might be more beneficial to explore the role of zinc as a biomarker for assessing the risk of developing a tissue-damaging CRS and predicting outcomes in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 at the early stage of the disease.

Remdesivir plus standard of care versus standard of care alone for the treatment of patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 (DisCoVeRy): a phase 3, randomised, controlled, open-label trial

Background

The antiviral efficacy of remdesivir against SARS-CoV-2 is still controversial. We aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of remdesivir plus standard of care compared with standard of care alone in patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19, with indication of oxygen or ventilator support.

Methods

DisCoVeRy was a phase 3, open-label, adaptive, multicentre, randomised, controlled trial conducted in 48 sites in Europe (France, Belgium, Austria, Portugal, Luxembourg). Adult patients (aged ≥18 years) admitted to hospital with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and illness of any duration were eligible if they had clinical evidence of hypoxaemic pneumonia, or required oxygen supplementation. Exclusion criteria included elevated liver enzymes, severe chronic kidney disease, any contraindication to one of the studied treatments or their use in the 29 days before random assignment, or use of ribavirin, as well as pregnancy or breastfeeding. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1:1:1) to receive standard of care alone or in combination with remdesivir, lopinavir–ritonavir, lopinavir–ritonavir and interferon beta-1a, or hydroxychloroquine. Randomisation used computer-generated blocks of various sizes; it was stratified on severity of disease at inclusion and on European administrative region. Remdesivir was administered as 200 mg intravenous infusion on day 1, followed by once daily, 1-h infusions of 100 mg up to 9 days, for a total duration of 10 days. It could be stopped after 5 days if the participant was discharged. The primary outcome was the clinical status at day 15 measured by the WHO seven-point ordinal scale, assessed in the intention-to-treat population. Safety was assessed in the modified intention-to-treat population and was one of the secondary outcomes. This trial is registered with the European Clinical Trials Database, EudraCT2020-000936-23, and ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04315948.

Findings

Between March 22, 2020, and Jan 21, 2021, 857 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to remdesivir plus standard of care (n=429) or standard of care only (n=428). 15 participants were excluded from analysis in the remdesivir group, and ten in the control group. At day 15, the distribution of the WHO ordinal scale was: (1) not hospitalised, no limitations on activities (61 [15%] of 414 in the remdesivir group vs 73 [17%] of 418 in the control group); (2) not hospitalised, limitation on activities (129 [31%] vs 132 [32%]); (3) hospitalised, not requiring supplemental oxygen (50 [12%] vs 29 [7%]); (4) hospitalised, requiring supplemental oxygen (76 [18%] vs 67 [16%]); (5) hospitalised, on non-invasive ventilation or high flow oxygen devices (15 [4%] vs 14 [3%]); (6) hospitalised, on invasive mechanical ventilation or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (62 [15%] vs 79 [19%]); (7) death (21 [5%] vs 24 [6%]). The difference between treatment groups was not significant (odds ratio 0·98 [95% CI 0·77–1·25]; p=0·85). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of serious adverse events between treatment groups (remdesivir, 135 [33%] of 406 vs control, 130 [31%] of 418; p=0·48). Three deaths (acute respiratory distress syndrome, bacterial infection, and hepatorenal syndrome) were considered related to remdesivir by the investigators, but only one by the sponsor's safety team (hepatorenal syndrome).

Interpretation

No clinical benefit was observed from the use of remdesivir in patients who were admitted to hospital for COVID-19, were symptomatic for more than 7 days, and required oxygen support.

Funding

European Union Commission, French Ministry of Health, Domaine d'intérêt majeur One Health Île-de-France, REACTing, Fonds Erasme-COVID-Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre, Austrian Group Medical Tumor, European Regional Development Fund, Portugal Ministry of Health, Portugal Agency for Clinical Research and Biomedical Innovation.

Translation

For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Case Report: About a Case of Hyperammonemia Syndrome Following Lung Transplantation: Could Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing Improve the Clinical Management?

Background: Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma spp. are responsible for opportunistic infections in transplant patients, sometimes causing a life-threatening hyperammonemia syndrome. Both pathogens are not identified with standard microbiology techniques, resulting in missed or delayed diagnosis. We present a clinical case that illustrates the added value that next-generation sequencing (NGS) may offer in the diagnosis of respiratory infections in immune-compromised patients. Results: A 55 years-old man with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis underwent double lung transplantation. He received antibiotic prophylaxis with piperacillin-tazobactam and azythromycin. At day 4 post-transplantation (PTx), the patient presented an acute respiratory distress. A broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) was performed. At day 5 PTx, the patient presented a status epilepticus due to diffuse cerebral oedema. Serum ammonia concentration was 661 μg/dL. BAL bacterial culture was negative. Because of the clinical presentation, special cultures were performed and identified 100.000 CFU/mL of M. hominis and Ureaplasma spp. and specific PCRs were positive for M. hominis and Ureaplasma parvum. Antibiotic therapy was shifted to therapeutic dose of azithromycin and doxycycline; within 48 h ammonia serum concentrations returned to normal but the coma persisted several weeks, followed by a persistent frontal lobe syndrome. A follow-up BAL was performed on day 11 Ptx. The Mycoplasma/Ureaplasma culture was negative, yet the specific PCRs remained positive. Bacterial culture found 100 CFU/mL of Staphylococcus aureus and viral culture was positive for Herpes Simplex Virus-1. These results were confirmed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). In the bacterial fraction, the majority of reads belonged to Corynebacterium propinquum (34.7%), S. aureus (24.1%) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (17.1%). Reads assigned to M. hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum and parvum represented 0.71, 0.13, and 0.04% of the bacterial fraction and corresponded to 6.9 × 10³, 9.7 × 10², and 3.7 × 10² genome equivalents per mL of BAL fluid, respectively. These results are in favor of a cure of the atypical infection. Conclusions: mNGS offered added diagnostic and quantitative values compared to PCR tests, which can remain positive after resolved infections. The initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy would have occurred earlier on, possibly resulting in a better clinical outcome if mNGS had been performed in a routine fashion.

Early β-lactam concentrations and infectious complications after lung transplantation

Antibiotic underdosing in prophylactic antibiotic regimes after lung transplantation (LTx) can increase the risk of infection. We aimed to study whether β-lactam concentrations achieved desirable pharmacodynamic targets in the early phase after LTx and the association between drug concentrations and the development of early infections or the acquisition of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. We reviewed patients in whom broad-spectrum β-lactam levels were measured after LTx during antibiotic prophylaxis. β-Lactam concentrations were considered "insufficient" if drug levels remained below four times the clinical breakpoint of the minimal inhibitory concentration for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The primary outcome was the occurrence of an infection and/or acquisition of MDR pathogens in the first 14 days after transplantation. A total of 70 patients were included. "Insufficient" drug concentrations were found in 40% of patients. In 27% of patients, an early MDR pathogen was identified and 49% patients were diagnosed with an early posttransplant infection. Patients with "insufficient" drug concentrations acquired more frequently MDR bacteria and/or developed an infection than others (22/28, 79% vs. 20/42, 48% - p = .01). β-Lactam levels were often found to be below the desired drug targets in the early phase after transplantation and may be associated with the occurrence of early infectious complications.

An open-label randomized controlled trial of the effect of lopinavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir plus IFN-β-1a and hydroxychloroquine in hospitalized patients with COVID-19

Objectives

We evaluated the clinical, virological and safety outcomes of lopinavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir–interferon (IFN)-β-1a, hydroxychloroquine or remdesivir in comparison to standard of care (control) in coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) inpatients requiring oxygen and/or ventilatory support.

Methods

We conducted a phase III multicentre, open-label, randomized 1:1:1:1:1, adaptive, controlled trial (DisCoVeRy), an add-on to the Solidarity trial (NCT04315948, EudraCT2020-000936-23). The primary outcome was the clinical status at day 15, measured by the WHO seven-point ordinal scale. Secondary outcomes included quantification of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in respiratory specimens and pharmacokinetic and safety analyses. We report the results for the lopinavir/ritonavir-containing arms and for the hydroxychloroquine arm, trials of which were stopped prematurely.

Results

The intention-to-treat population included 583 participants—lopinavir/ritonavir (n = 145), lopinavir/ritonavir–IFN–β-1a (n = 145), hydroxychloroquine (n = 145), control (n = 148)—among whom 418 (71.7%) were male, the median age was 63 years (IQR 54–71), and 211 (36.2%) had a severe disease. The day-15 clinical status was not improved with the investigational treatments: lopinavir/ritonavir versus control, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.83, (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55–1.26, p 0.39), lopinavir/ritonavir–IFN–β-1a versus control, aOR 0.69 (95%CI 0.45–1.04, p 0.08), and hydroxychloroquine versus control, aOR 0.93 (95%CI 0.62–1.41, p 0.75). No significant effect of investigational treatment was observed on SARS-CoV-2 clearance. Trough plasma concentrations of lopinavir and ritonavir were higher than those expected, while those of hydroxychloroquine were those expected with the dosing regimen. The occurrence of serious adverse events was significantly higher in participants allocated to the lopinavir/ritonavir-containing arms.

Conclusion

In adults hospitalized for COVID-19, lopinavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir–IFN–β-1a and hydroxychloroquine improved neither the clinical status at day 15 nor SARS-CoV-2 clearance in respiratory tract specimens.

Minireview on Novel Anti-infectious Treatment Options and Optimized Drug Regimens for Sepsis

Sepsis, a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated response to infection is a major public health concern, as it is a leading cause of mortality and critical illness worldwide. Antibiotics are one of the cornerstones of the treatment of sepsis; administering appropriate antibiotics in a rapid fashion to obtain adequate drug concentrations at the site of the infection can improve survival of patients. Nevertheless, it is a challenge for clinicians to do so. Indeed, clinicians today are regularly confronted with infections due to very resistant pathogens, and standard dosage regimens of antibiotics often do not provide adequate antibiotic concentrations at the site of the infection. We provide a narrative minireview of different anti-infectious treatments currently available and suggestions on how to deliver optimized dosage regimens to septic patients. Particular emphasis will be made on newly available anti-infectious therapies.

The impact of continuous renal replacement therapy on antibiotic pharmacokinetics in critically ill patients

Introduction: Mortality due to severe infections in critically ill patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) remains high. Nevertheless, rapid administration of adequate antibiotic therapy can improve survival. Delivering optimized antibiotic therapy can be a challenge, as standard drug regimens often result in insufficient or excessive serum concentrations due to significant changes in the volume of distribution and/or drug clearance in these patients. Insufficient drug concentrations can be responsible for therapeutic failure and death, while excessive concentrations can cause toxic adverse events.Areas covered: We performed a narrative review of the impact of CRRT on the pharmacokinetics of the most frequently used antibiotics in critically ill patients. We have provided explanations for the changes in the PKs of antibiotics observed and suggestions to optimize dosage regimens in these patients.Expert opinion: Despite considerable efforts to identify optimal antibiotic dosage regimens for critically ill patients receiving CRRT, adequate target achievement remains too low for hydrophilic antibiotics in many patients. Whenever possible, individualized therapy based on results from therapeutic drug monitoring must be given to avoid undertreatment or toxicity.

Predictive Factors of In-Hospital Mortality in Older Adults with Community-Acquired Bloodstream Infection

OBJECTIVES

To assess the prevalence of intra-hospital mortality and associated risk factors in older people aged 75+, admitted with blood stream infections (BSI).

DESIGN

Single center retrospective study performed in an 850-bed of the academic hospital of the Université Libre de Bruxelles.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

From January 2015 to December 2017, all inpatients over 75 years old admitted with BSI were included.

MEASURES

Demographical, clinical and microbiological data were collected.

RESULTS

212 patients were included: median age was 82 [79-85] years and 60 % were female. The in-hospital mortality rate was 19%. The majority of microorganisms were Gram-negative strains, of which Escherichia coli was the most common, and urinary tract infection was the most common origin of BSI. Compared to patients who survived, the non-survivor group had a higher SOFA score (6 versus 3, p<0.0001), a higher comorbidity score (5 versus 4, p<0.0001), more respiratory tract infections (28 vs 6 %, p < 0.0001) and fungal infections (5 vs 1 %, p = 0.033), bedridden status (60 vs 25 %, p < 0.0001), and healthcare related infections (60 vs 40 %, p = 0.019). Using Cox multivariable regression analysis, only SOFA score was independently associated with mortality (HR 1.75 [95%IC 1.52-2.03], p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

BSI in older people are severe infections associated with a significant in-hospital mortality. Severity of clinical presentation at onset remains the most important predictor of mortality for BSI in older people. BSI originating from respiratory source and bedridden patients are at greater risk of intra-hospital mortality. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.

Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics of Antiviral Agents Used to Treat SARS-CoV-2 and Their Potential Interaction with Drugs and Other Supportive Measures: A Comprehensive Review by the PK/PD of Anti-Infectives Study Group of the European Society of Antimicrobial Agents

There is an urgent need to identify optimal antiviral therapies for COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2. We have conducted a rapid and comprehensive review of relevant pharmacological evidence, focusing on (1) the pharmacokinetics (PK) of potential antiviral therapies; (2) coronavirus-specific pharmacodynamics (PD); (3) PK and PD interactions between proposed combination therapies; (4) pharmacology of major supportive therapies; and (5) anticipated drug-drug interactions (DDIs). We found promising in vitro evidence for remdesivir, (hydroxy)chloroquine and favipiravir against SARS-CoV-2; potential clinical benefit in SARS-CoV-2 with remdesivir, the combination of lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) plus ribavirin; and strong evidence for LPV/r plus ribavirin against Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) for post-exposure prophylaxis in healthcare workers. Despite these emerging data, robust controlled clinical trials assessing patient-centred outcomes remain imperative and clinical data have already reduced expectations with regard to some drugs. Any therapy should be used with caution in the light of potential drug interactions and the uncertainty of optimal doses for treating mild versus serious infections.

Invasive group B Streptococcus among non-pregnant adults in Brussels-Capital Region, 2005-2019

To assess the incidence, clinical, microbiological features and outcome of invasive Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) infections in non-pregnant adults in three tertiary hospitals of the Brussels-Capital Region. All bacterial cultures positive for GBS, from 2005 to 2019 from 3 hospitals of the Brussels-Capital Region, were extracted, and only cases of invasive diseases were included. Medical files were retrospectively retrieved for risk factors, clinical manifestations and outcome and also antibiotic-susceptibility testing and GBS serotypes. Incidence rates were calculated based on the hospitals catchment populations. A total of 337 cases of GBS-invasive infections were included. The incidence of invasive GBS for the 3 hospitals increased from 3.7 to 8.2 cases per 100.000 inhabitants between 2009 and 2018 (p = 0.04). The most frequently identified risk factors were diabetes (36.8%), obesity (35.0%), cancer (21.7%), renal disease (20.8%), and advanced age (≥ 65 years; 47.2%). Isolated bacteremia (22%), osteoarticular infection (21.4%), abscesses (13.9%), and skin and soft tissue infections (18.4%) were the most frequent manifestations. Intensive care unit admission was required in 21.7% and overall mortality was 9.4%. All strains remained susceptible to penicillin over the years. Up to 20% of strains were resistant to clindamycin. Serotypes Ia, Ib, II, III, IV, and V represented 96.8% of the available serotypes (60/62). As reported in several countries, invasive GBS disease in non-pregnant adults represents an increasing burden, particularly among diabetic, obese, and elderly patients. Almost all serotypes identified are included in the upcoming hexavalent GBS conjugate vaccine.

What is the optimal loading dose of broad-spectrum β-lactam antibiotics in septic patients? Results from pharmacokinetic simulation modelling

Optimal loading doses of β-lactams to rapidly achieve adequate drug concentrations in critically ill patients are unknown. This was a post-hoc analysis of a prospective study that evaluated broad-spectrum β-lactams [piperacillin (PIP), ceftazidime (CAZ), cefepime (FEP) and meropenem (MEM)] pharmacokinetics (PKs) in patients with sepsis or septic shock (n = 88). Monte Carlo simulation was performed for 1000 virtual patients using specific sets of covariates for various dosing regimens and different durations of administration. Pharmacodynamic (PD) targets were considered as drug concentrations exceeding at least 50% of time above four times the minimum inhibitory concentration (T_>4 × MIC) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, according to EUCAST criteria, for PIP, 70%T_>4 × MIC for CAZ and FEP and 40%T_>4 × MIC for MEM. The probability of target attainment (PTA) was derived by calculating the percentage of patients who attained the PK/PD target at each MIC. The optimal loading dose was defined as the one associated with a ≥90% probability to achieve the PD targets. Our simulation model identified an optimal loading dose for PIP of 8 g given as a 3-h infusion (PTA of 96.2%), for CAZ and FEP of 4 g given as a 3-h infusion (PTA of 96.5% and 98.4%, respectively), and for MEM of 2 g given as a 30-min infusion (PTA of 93.4%), with the following antibiotic dose administered 6 h thereafter regardless of the drug. A higher first dose of broad-spectrum β-lactams should be given to adequately treat less-susceptible pathogens in septic patients. These findings need to be validated in a prospective study.

Epidemiology and clinical impact of viral, atypical, and fungal respiratory pathogens in symptomatic immunocompromised patients: a two-center study using a multi-parameter customized respiratory Taqman® array card

The prevalence of respiratory viruses in immunocompromised adult patients and the association with clinical outcomes is still underexplored. Our goal was to assess the epidemiology and the potential clinical impact of respiratory viral infections in a high-risk patient population. Two large hospitals performed a respiratory Taqman array card (TAC), targeting 24 viruses, 8 bacteria, and 2 fungi simultaneously, on 435 samples from 397 symptomatic immunocompromised patients. Clinical details were collected retrospectively using a structured case report form. An overall positivity rate of 68% was found (51% mono- and 17% co-infections). Pathogen distribution was as follows: influenza A (20.7%), rhinoviruses (15.2%), coronaviruses (7.8%), Pneumocystis jirovecii (7.4%), RSV (7.1%), and CMV (6.0%) were the most frequently encountered, followed by HSV (5.5%), hMPV (4.4%), parainfluenza viruses (3.9%), influenza B (3.7%), and Aspergillus species (3.7%). Other pathogens were not detected or detected only in ≤ 1% of samples. Hospital and ICU admission rates were 84% and 11%, respectively. The presence of a pathogen was strongly associated with higher need for supplemental oxygen (p = 0.001), but it had no impact on ICU admission, mechanical ventilation requirement, antibacterial therapy, or mortality. In conclusion, our study described the epidemiology of respiratory pathogens in a large group of symptomatic immunocompromised patients and provides evidence of a relationship between pathogen detection and the need for supplemental oxygen. This association was still found after the exclusion of the results positive for influenza viruses, suggesting that non-influenza viruses contribute to severe respiratory illness in patients with compromised immunity.

Blood tolerogenic monocytes and low proportions of dendritic cell subpopulations are hallmarks of human tuberculosis

BACKGROUND

The immune mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of tuberculosis (TB) need better understanding to improve TB management, as the disease still causes more than 1.5 million deaths annually. This study tested the hypothesis that a modulation of the proportions or activation status of APC during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection may impact on the course of the disease.

PROCEDURE

Proportions of circulating APC subsets and the expression of stimulatory (CD86), inhibitory (ILT-3, ILT-4, ILT-7), or apoptosis-inducing (PDL-1, PDL-2) molecules were analyzed in 2 independent cohorts, on blood monocytes and dendritic cell (DC) subsets from patients with active or latent TB infection (aTB /LTBI) and from uninfected subjects.

RESULTS

Higher proportions of classical CD14⁺ CD16^- and intermediate CD14⁺ CD16⁺ monocytes, and lower proportions of plasmacytoid DC (pDC) and type 2 myeloid DC were observed in the blood from untreated patients with aTB compared with those with LTBI and with healthy subjects, with an early normalization of the proportions of pDC during treatment. In addition, monocytes from M. tuberculosis-infected subjects expressed higher levels of ILT-3, ILT-4, and PDL-1 compared with healthy controls, these differences being more important for patients with aTB than for those with LTBI.

CONCLUSIONS

These results confirm the hypothesis of a modulation of the proportions and activation status of APC during M. tuberculosis infection and suggest that these cells could play a role in driving the course of M. tuberculosis infection.

Optimizing β-lactams treatment in critically-ill patients using pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics targets: are first conventional doses effective?

INTRODUCTION

The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic index determining β-lactam activity is the percentage of the dosing interval (%T) during which their free serum concentration remains above a critical threshold over the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Regrettably, neither the value of %T nor that of the threshold are clearly defined for critically-ill patients. Areas covered: We review and assess the targets proposed for β-lactams in critical illness by screening the literature since 1997. Depending on the study intention (clinical cure vs. suppression of resistance), targets proposed range from 20%T > 1xMIC to 100%T > 5xMIC. Assessment and comparative analysis of their respective clinical efficacy suggest that a value of 100%T > 4xMIC may be needed. Simulation studies, however, show that this target will not be reached at first dose for the majority of critically-ill patients if using the most commonly recommended doses. Expert commentary: Considering that critically-ill patients are highly vulnerable and likely to experience antibiotic underexposure, and because effective initial treatment is a key determinant of clinical outcome, we support the use of a target of 100%T > 4xMIC, which could not only maximize efficacy but also minimize emergence of resistance. Clinical and microbiological studies are needed to test for the feasibility and effectiveness of reaching such a demanding target.

Evaluation of total body weight and body mass index cut-offs for increased cefazolin dose for surgical prophylaxis

French and American guidelines recommend increased dosage regimens of cefazolin (CFZ) for surgical prophylaxis in patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m² or with a total body weight (TBW) ≥ 120 kg. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of these cut-offs in identifying patients who require CFZ dose adjustment. A pharmacokinetic study was conducted in patients of varying TBW and BMI who received 2 g of CFZ intravenously for prophylaxis prior to digestive surgery. Adequacy of therapy, defined as a serum concentration of unbound CFZ (fCFZ) ≥ 4 mg/L, was evaluated 180 min (T₁₈₀) and 240 min (T₂₄₀) after the start of CFZ infusion. Possible factors associated with insufficient fCFZ levels were also assessed. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 63 patients were included in the study, categorised according to BMI (<35 kg/m², 20 patients; and ≥35 kg/m², 43 patients) and TBW (<120 kg, 41 patients; and ≥120 kg, 22 patients). All patients had adequate drug levels at T₁₈₀ but only 40/63 patients (63%) had adequate levels at T₂₄₀. At T₂₄₀, therapy was adequate in 15/20 patients (75%) and 25/43 patients (58%) with BMI <35 kg/m² and ≥35 kg/m², respectively (P = 0.20), and in 28/41 patients (68%) and 12/22 patients (55%) with TBW <120 kg and ≥120 kg, respectively (P = 0.28). No factor associated with insufficient fCFZ was identified. In conclusion, current BMI and TBW cut-offs are poor indicators of which patients could benefit from increased CFZ dosage regimens.

Serum β-lactam concentrations in critically ill patients with cirrhosis: a matched case-control study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The pharmacokinetics of β-lactam antibiotics have not been well defined in critically ill patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

We reviewed data from critically ill patients with cirrhosis and matched controls in whom routine therapeutic drug monitoring of two broad-spectrum β-lactam antibiotics (piperacillin/tazobactam and meropenem) had been performed. Serum drug concentrations were measured twice by high-performance liquid chromatography. Antibiotic pharmacokinetics were calculated using a one-compartment model. We considered that therapy was adequate when serum drug concentrations were between 4 and 8 times the minimal inhibitory concentration of Pseudomonas aeruginosa during optimal periods of time for each drug (≥ 50% for piperacillin/tazobactam; ≥ 40% for meropenem).

RESULTS

We studied 38 patients with cirrhosis (16 for piperacillin/tazobactam and 22 for meropenem) and 38 matched controls. Drug dosing was similar in the two groups. The pharmacokinetics analysis showed a lower volume of distribution of meropenem (P = 0.05) and a lower antibiotic clearance of piperacillin/tazobactam (P = 0.009) in patients with cirrhosis than in the matched controls. Patients with cirrhosis were more likely than those without cirrhosis to have excessive serum β-lactam concentrations (P = 0.015), in particular for piperacillin/tazobactam.

CONCLUSIONS

Standard β-lactam antibiotics regimens resulted in excessive serum concentrations in two thirds of the patients with cirrhosis. This was particularly true for piperacillin/tazobactam, probably because of reduced drug clearance.

Effect of obesity on the pharmacokinetics of antimicrobials in critically ill patients: A structured review

The increased prevalence of obesity presents challenges for clinicians aiming to provide optimised antimicrobial dosing in the intensive care unit. Obesity is likely to exacerbate the alterations to antimicrobial pharmacokinetics when the chronic diseases associated with obesity exist with the acute pathophysiological changes associated with critical illness. The purpose of this paper is to review the potential pharmacokinetic (PK) changes of antimicrobials in obese critically ill patients and the implications for appropriate dosing. We found that hydrophilic antimicrobials (e.g. β-lactams, vancomycin, daptomycin) were more likely to manifest altered pharmacokinetics in critically ill patients who are obese. In particular for β-lactam antibiotics, obesity is associated with a larger volume of distribution (V(d)). In obese critically ill patients, piperacillin is also associated with a lower drug clearance (CL). For doripenem, these PK changes have been associated with reduced achievement of pharmacodynamic (PD) targets when standard drug doses are used. For vancomycin, increases in Vd are associated with increasing total body weight (TBW), meaning that the loading dose should be based on TBW even in obese patients. For daptomycin, an increased Vd is not considered to be clinically relevant. For antifungals, little data exist in obese critically ill patients; during fluconazole therapy, an obese patient had a lower V(d) and higher CL than non-obese comparators. Overall, most studies suggested that standard dosage regimens of most commonly used antimicrobials are sufficient to achieve PD targets. However, it is likely that larger doses would be required for pathogens with higher minimum inhibitory concentrations.