An analysis of central venous catheter-related bloodstream infections in patients treated in a Swedish Covid-19 intensive care unit

Background

Catheter-related bloodstream infection is a well-known, severe complication of central venous catheter insertion. Studies that have evaluated the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic's influence on the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection in intensive care units are limited. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective study on catheter-related bloodstream infection in coronavirus disease 2019 intensive care unit with previously documented low incidence rates to evaluate the pandemic's impact.

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on catheter-related bloodstream infection incidence in the intensive care unit.

Methods

All central venous catheter-inserted patients aged ⩾18 years admitted to the intensive care unit with coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia were included. The primary outcome was the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection, and the secondary outcome was the detection of catheter-related bloodstream infection-causative microorganisms.

Results

During the pandemic's first year, 124 patients were admitted, and 203 central venous catheters were inserted. Two patients developed catheter-related bloodstream infection. The incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection was 0.79/1000 catheter days. The microorganisms responsible for catheter-related bloodstream infection were Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli.

Conclusion

This study revealed a low incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection in the coronavirus disease 2019-intensive care unit, thus suggesting that coronavirus disease 2019 is not a risk factor for catheter-related bloodstream infection and indicating the high resilience of well-established routines aimed at catheter-related bloodstream infection prevention.

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Versus Centrally Inserted Central Catheter for In-Hospital Infusion Therapy: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the comparative effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) compared with centrally inserted central catheters (CICCs).

METHODS

Prospective cohort study was followed by an economic analysis over a 30-day time horizon. Propensity score matching was used to select hospitalized adults with similar indications for PICC or CICC. The composite outcome was device removal or replacement because of complications before the end of treatment. The economic evaluation was based on a decision tree model for cost-effectiveness analysis, with calculation of the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) per catheter removal avoided. All costs are presented in Brazilian reais (BRL) (1 BRL = 0.1870 US dollar).

RESULTS

A total of 217 patients were followed in each group; 172 (79.3%) of those receiving a PICC and 135 (62.2%) of those receiving a CICC had no device-related complication, respectively. When comparing the events leading to device removal, the risk of composite endpoint was significantly higher in the CICC group (hazard ratio 0.20; 95% CI 0.11-0.35). The cost of PICC placement was BRL 1290.98 versus BRL 467.16 for a CICC. In the base case, the ICER for placing a PICC instead of a CICC was BRL 3349.91 per removal or replacement avoided. On univariate sensitivity analyses, the model proved to be robust within an ICER range of 2500.00 to 4800.00 BRL.

CONCLUSIONS

PICC placement was associated with a lower risk of complications than CICC placement. Although the cost of a PICC is higher, its use avoided complications and need for catheter replacement before the end of treatment.

Ultrasonographic Findings of Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection in Pediatric Patients

BACKGROUND

Catheter removal is essential for treating catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI); however, clinicians are sometimes hesitant to remove catheters in pediatric patients due to the difficulty of securing vascular access. Confirming the diagnosis of CRBSI is important to justify catheter removal. The purpose of this study was to describe the sonographic findings of CRBSI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included patients with a central venous catheter (CVC) or peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) who had a positive blood culture and underwent ultrasound. The patients were classified as with or without CRBSI. Sonographic findings, such as the presence/absence of thrombus, venous wall thickening, hyperechogenicity, and fluid collection around the vein were compared using Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

Of the 58 patients, 38 (66%) were diagnosed with CRBSI. The presence of thrombus (19/38 vs 3/20, P = .011); and hyperechogenicity around the vein (14/38 vs 2/20, P = .035) differed significantly, but There was no significant difference in the presence of venous wall thickening (10/38 vs 1/20, P = .077), and fluid collection around the vein (5/38 vs 0/20, P = .153), did not differ significantly in patients with and without CRBSI, respectively. One-third of patients with CRBSI, including 11 (42.3%) patients with CVC, and 2 (16.7%) patients with PICC, did not have abnormal sonographic findings.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound findings are useful for diagnosing CRBSI. However, the sensitivity of sonographic findings is low and abnormal sonographic findings are sometimes absent in children with CRBSI; therefore, physicians should not rule out CRBSI based on normal sonographic findings, especially in patients a CVC and a positive blood culture.

Peripherally inserted central catheter securement with cyanoacrylate glue and bloodstream infection: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Treatment via a peripherally inserted central venous catheter is important for anticancer treatment, perioperative management, and nutrition management. In this study, we aimed to investigate the usefulness of cyanoacrylate glue (CG) in managing peripherally inserted central venous catheters in adults.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study enrolled 411 adults requiring a central venous catheter for treatment in the Chiba University Esophageal-Gastro-Intestinal Surgery department between January 2021 and October 2022. The preventive effect of CG in reducing adverse events, including infection, tip migration, and thrombus formation, was evaluated by reviewing electronic medical records, chest radiographs, and contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans.

RESULTS

CG and other dressings were used in 158 (CG group) and 253 (control group) patients, respectively. The incidence of catheter infection based on the clinical course was lower in the CG group (3.2%) than in the control group (9.1%; P = 0.03). However, cases of infection confirmed by blood or catheter cultures did not differ between the CG (1.3%) and control (1.9%) groups (P = 1.0). Chest radiographs revealed that catheter tip migration (mean ± SD) was lesser in the CG group (8.2 ± 6.7 mm) than in the control group (15.0 ± 15.8 mm; P < 0.01). There were two cases of venous thrombus formation in the control group.

CONCLUSION

In a population dominated by esophago-gastroenterological malignancy, peripherally inserted central catheter securement via CG was associated with decreased catheter removal because of suspected catheter infection. Further research on larger cohorts is needed to determine if other adverse events decrease following peripherally inserted central catheter securement via CG.

Randomized controlled trial on healthy volunteers of pharmacokinetic and antimicrobial activity of a novel hydrogel-containing chlorhexidine dressing to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infection

Introduction

Catheter-related blood stream infection (CRBSI) is one of the most relevant complications associated to the use of intravascular catheters. In this context, chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) releasing dressings have been developed to reduce the catheter colonization rate and the risk of infection. The aim of this study is to analyze the release rate of CHG and the antimicrobial activity of a novel CHG-releasing dressing, Oper film® protect CHG, and to compare these parameters to those of the dressing Tegaderm™ CHG in healthy volunteers.

Methods

The study was performed in a cohort of 25 healthy volunteers. Two commercially available chlorhexidine-containing dressings were evaluated and compared in this study, Oper film® protect CHG and Tegaderm™ CHG. The release of CHG and the antimicrobial capacity was determined for one week.

Results

HPLC analysis revealed that both dressings have an equivalent CHG release to the skin 2 days (Oper film® protect CHG, 321 μg/cm2; Tegaderm™ CHG, 279 μg/cm2) and 7 days (Oper film® protect CHG, 456 μg/cm2; Tegaderm™ CHG, 381 μg/cm2) after the placement of the products in the non-disinfected back of the subjects. On the other hand, Oper film® protect CHG and Tegaderm™ CHG similarly reduced colony forming units (CFU) in cultures obtained from the skin under the CHG-containing hydrogel compared to control cultures at both 2 days (control, 3.34 log10 cfu/cm2; Oper film® protect CHG, 0.64 log10 cfu/cm2; Tegaderm™ CHG, 0.7 log10 cfu/cm2) and 7 days (control, 3.95 log10 cfu/cm2; Oper film® protect CHG, 0.11 log10 cfu/cm2; Tegaderm™ CHG, 1 log10 cfu/cm2).

Discussion

Data confirm that the recent commercially available dressing Oper film® protect CHG maintains the release of CHG and the antimicrobial activity during at least 7 days, and possesses equivalent drug release and antimicrobial action to Tegaderm™ CHG.

Chlorhexidine-based versus non-chlorhexidine dressings to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections: An evidence-based review

In patients with central venous catheters (CVCs) in situ, the development of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) is often linked with increased morbidity and mortality. Sterile gauze or transparent polyurethane dressings are conventionally used as extraluminal barriers; however, antimicrobial chlorhexidine CVC dressings could potentially reduce infection risk. This short evidence-based review examined the literature comparing the effectiveness of chlorhexidine-based CVC dressings against non-chlorhexidine dressings in reducing CRBSI occurrence. Four systematic reviews with meta-analysis were reviewed, all of which reported a statistically significant reduction in CRBSI occurrence on using chlorhexidine-based dressings. Further research is needed to determine the cost-effectiveness of chlorhexidine-based CVC dressings and their effectiveness in reducing CRBSIs in different catheter types and entry sites because infection risk is not uniform.

Williamsia muralis bacteraemia in a patient with Fanconi anaemia after haematopoietic cell transplantation

Introduction

Williamsia muralis is an environmental bacterium first detected in 1999. Infections with W. muralis isolated have been reported in two elderly patients, and were associated with the surgical intervention of artificial objects. We present a case of bacteraemia caused by W. muralis following haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT).

Case presentation

A 10-year-old Japanese boy presented with fever and the swelling of the left cheek 8 days after HCT for the treatment of Fanconi anaemia. Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria were isolated from the blood cultures after 5 days incubation. 16S rRNA sequencing, but not mass spectrometry, identified a strain of W. muralis (1 414 bp, %ID 100 %). The phlegmon did not respond to antimicrobial therapy, but remitted with defervescence after a successful engraftment with teicoplanin and meropenem therapy on day 16 after HCT. The patient experienced recurrence of the bacteraemia, leading to central venous catheter (CVC) line removal. The same strain of W. muralis was isolated from the cultured tip of the CVC. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of W. muralis bacteraemia and was complicated by CVC infection after HCT.

Conclusion

W. muralis bacteraemia developed in an immunocompromised child. Introduction of artificial objects into the body raises a risk of rare infection with slowly growing environmental bacteria.

Daptomycin as an option for lock therapy: a systematic literature review

Aim: To review preclinical and clinical data relevant to daptomycin lock therapy in catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI). Methods: Systematic review in PubMed, Scopus and clinical trial registries. Results: Preclinical data demonstrate daptomycin lock solution stability and compatibility with heparin, good biofilm penetration, bactericidal activity against biofilm-embedded bacteria, and high efficacy in vitro and in animal catheter infection models. Clinical data remain limited (two case reports and five case series totaling n = 65 CRBSI episodes), albeit promising (successful catheter salvage in about 80% of cases). Conclusion: Despite theoretical advantages of daptomycin, clinical data remain scarce. Comparative studies versus alternative lock solutions are needed, as well as studies to define optimal daptomycin lock regimen (including optimal concentration, dwell time and lock duration).

Unraveling the Mystery of Fever Source: The Vital Role of Physical Examination in Hospitalized Patients With Emphasis on Peripheral Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections

Fever in hospitalized patients requires timely identification of the underlying cause for appropriate treatment. While laboratory tests and imaging studies are valuable, the significance of physical examination should not be overlooked. We present a case of peripheral line-associated bloodstream infection that was readily diagnosed through physical examination during an infectious disease consultation for fever of unknown origin. It is important for busy physicians to prioritize physical examinations to prevent diagnostic errors. Prompt and focused physical examinations contribute to improved patient outcomes and the prevention of healthcare-associated infections.

Catheter-Related Blood Stream Infections and Associated Factors Among Hemodialysis Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction

Non-tunneled central venous catheter remains the preferred vascular access at hemodialysis initiation in developing countries despite a high burden of infection complications. The goal of this study was to determine the burden, risk factors, and microbiological spectrum of catheter-related bloodstream infections at a tertiary care center in Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study design was applied among patients who underwent central venous catheter insertion for hemodialysis between January 2016 and June 2022 with no native arteriovenous fistula and stayed more than 48 hours. Data were collected from the patient's registration book, patient charts, and microbiology registry and analyzed using SPSS 21. Binary logistic regression was applied to assess the relationship between the independent and outcome variables. P-values less than 0.05 with AOR and 95% CI were used as statistically significant variables.

Results

In this study, 353 patients were included. The mean age was 39±17.9 years and the average duration of catheter stay was 58 ±95 days. A hundred thirty-five (38.2%) CRBSIs were documented with an incidence rate of 7.74 episodes per 1000 catheter days. The causative microorganism was predominantly gram-negatives (57.6%). Duration of a catheter (AOR: 0.3; P < 0.001), previous CVC infection (AOR: 11.9; P < 0.001), high white blood cell count (AOR: 0.31; P<0.001), urban residence (AOR: 1.92; P<0.05), and low hemoglobin levels (AOR: 2.78; P < 0.05) were independently associated with catheter-related bloodstream infections.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection among patients on hemodialysis was high with gram-negative predominance. Early fistula must be planned to reduce the duration of temporary vascular access.

Randomized Clinical Trial of the Need for Antibiotic Treatment for Low-Risk Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection Caused by Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci

According to clinical guidelines, the management of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) due to coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) includes catheter removal and antibiotic treatment for 5 to 7 days. However, in low-risk episodes, it remains uncertain whether antibiotic therapy is necessary. This randomized clinical trial aims to determine whether the non-administration of antibiotic therapy is as safe and effective as the recommended strategy in low-risk episodes of CRBSI caused by CoNS. With this purpose, a randomized, open-label, multicenter, non-inferiority clinical trial was conducted in 14 Spanish hospitals from 1 July 2019 to 31 January 2022. Patients with low-risk CRBSI caused by CoNS were randomized 1:1 after catheter withdrawal to receive/not receive parenteral antibiotics with activity against the isolated strain. The primary endpoint was the presence of any complication related to bacteremia or to antibiotic therapy within 90 days of follow-up. The secondary endpoints were persistent bacteremia, septic embolism, time until microbiological cure, and time until the disappearance of a fever. EudraCT: 2017-003612-39 INF-BACT-2017. A total of 741 patients were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 27 were included in the study; 15 (55.6%) were randomized to the intervention arm (non-antibiotic administration) and 12 (44.4%) to the control arm (antibiotic therapy as per standard practice). The primary endpoint occurred in one of the 15 patients in the intervention group (septic thrombophlebitis) and in no patients in the control group. The median time until microbiological cure was 3 days (IQR 1-3) in the intervention arm and 1.25 days (IQR 0.5-2.62) in the control arm, while the median time until fever resolution was zero days in both arms. The study was stopped due to the insufficient number of recruited patients. These results seem to indicate that low-risk CRBSI caused by CoNS can be managed without antibiotic therapy after catheter removal; efficacy and safety are not affected.

Retrospective Analysis of Spectrum of Infections and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis in a Tertiary Care Centre in North India

Introduction

Hemodialysis patients are at risk of infections. This study examines the spectrum of infections and antibiotic resistance patterns.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 586 hemodialysis patients from May 2018 to April 2020 in a tertiary care hospital in North India.

Results

The study identified 99 episodes of confirmed infections. Urinary tract infections were the most common type of infections (55.5%), followed by catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) (definitive 21.2%). Other infections were pneumonia (8.1%), tuberculosis (6.1%), skin and soft tissue infection (4.0%), dengue fever (3.03%), and empyema thoracis (1.0%). Overall, Escherichia coli (33.3%) was the most common organism isolated. The most frequent uropathogens recovered were Escherichia coli (54%). In confirmed CRBSI, P. aeruginosa (23.8%) and MSSA (23.8%) were the most common pathogen isolated. K. pneumonia (37.5%) was the most common pathogen in pneumonia. Uropathogens showed the highest resistance to fluoroquinolones (93.3%-100%). Pathogens isolated in CRBSI showed maximum resistance to ciprofloxacin (100%). In pneumonia, the highest resistance was seen to third-generation cephalosporins (75%-100%).

Conclusion

Though the bacterial spectrum remains the same over time, antibiotic resistance is changing in uropathogens. There is a trend of predominance of Gram-negative bacterial infections in CRBSI. Tuberculosis incidence rate was much higher than the general population. There is a need for nationwide and worldwide continuous surveillance.

A Retrospective Study of the Use of Antibiotic Lock Therapy and Cluster Nursing Management in Infections in Children with Short Bowel Syndrome or Solid Abdominal Tumours Treated with Totally Implantable Venous Access Ports

Objective

To explore the effective response strategies for infections in infants with short bowel syndrome and solid abdominal tumours, treated with totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs).

Methods

A total of 210 children who were treated with a TIVAP in our department from 2020 to 2021 were selected for this retrospective study. Eight of these children diagnosed with a catheter-related bloodstream infection were studied in this study; antibiotic lock therapy (ALT) and cluster nursing management were used for treatment, and their effects on the infection outcome were observed.

Results

Among the eight children, seven access ports were successfully protected, and one catheter was removed from the right chest wall port due to repeated infection. In this one child, the left side was re-implanted.

Conclusion

The use of the ALT combined with cluster-based nursing can better treat infections of TIVAPs, improve the children's healing time, and has important clinical significance in the prevention of complications from the infection and improving the treatment and nursing of the patients diagnosed with these infections.

Endogenous Panophthalmitis and Eye Enucleation Secondary to Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia: A Rare Complication of Tunneled Dialysis Catheter Use

Catheter-related bloodstream infections are among the lethal complications of central venous catheter use. Patients with end-stage kidney disease use tunneled dialysis catheters (TDC) in the absence of arteriovenous access. We report a case of a patient using a TDC who developed panophthalmitis. This patient presented with painful and swollen eyes, fever, and chills. Positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) blood cultures were thought to be secondary to a catheter-related bloodstream infection originating from his TDC. A maxillofacial computed tomography scan showed an enlarged, elongated, and proptotic left globe with suspected scleral irregularity suggestive of panophthalmitis. Despite TDC removal and systemic antibiotics, his left eye had to be enucleated. A new TDC was placed after treating the catheter-related bloodstream infection. He continued antibiotic therapy for a total of eight weeks. Panophthalmitis, a rare complication of catheter-related bloodstream infection among hemodialysis patients using a TDC, represents another reason to avoid TDC as hemodialysis access.

Increasing Gram-Negative Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection in Cancer Patients

Background: We aimed to assess the incidence, etiology and outcomes of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in onco-hematological patients, to assess the differences between patients with hematological malignancies (HMs) and solid tumors (STs) and to identify the risk factors for Gram-negative (GN) CRBSI. Methods: All consecutive episodes of BSI in adult cancer patients were prospectively collected (2006-2020). The etiology of CRBSI was analyzed in three different 5-year periods. Risk factors for GN CRBSI were assessed in the whole cohort and separately in patients with HMs and STs. Results: Among 467 episodes of monomicrobial CRBSI, 407 were Gram-positive (GP) (87.1%), 49 GN (10.5%) and 11 fungal (2.4%). Hematological patients (369 episodes) were more frequently neutropenic and were more likely to carry central venous catheters and develop GP CRBSI. Patients with STs (98 episodes) had more comorbidities, more frequently carried port reservoirs and commonly presented more GN CRBSI. GN CRBSI significantly increased over the study period, from 5.2% to 23% (p < 0.001), whereas GP CRBSI decreased from 93.4% to 73.3% (p < 0.001). CRBSI episodes involving port reservoirs and peripherally-inserted central catheters were significantly increased (p < 0.001). The most frequent GPs were coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) (57.8%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common GN (3%). Multidrug-resistant (MDR) GN represented 32.7% of all GN CRBSIs and increased over time (p = 0.008). The independent risk factors for GN CRBSI in the whole cohort were solid tumor, chronic kidney disease and carrying a port reservoir. Carrying a port reservoir was also a risk factor in patients with STs. Health-care acquisition was identified as a risk factor for GN CRBSI in the whole cohort, as well as in patients with STs and HMs. Inadequate empirical antibiotic treatment (IEAT) occurred regardless of the etiology: 49% for GNs and 48.6% for GPs (p = 0.96). In GP CRBSI, IEAT was mainly due to inadequate coverage against CoNS (87%), whereas in GN CRBSI, IEAT was associated with multidrug resistance (54.2%). Early (48 h and 7-day) and 30-day case-fatality rates were similar when analyzed according to the type of underlying disease and etiology, except for the 30-day case-fatality rate, which was higher in the group of patients with STs compared to those with HMs (21.5% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.027). The 48 h case-fatality rate was significantly higher in patients in whom the catheter had not been removed (5.6% vs. 1%; p = 0.011), and it remained significant for GP CRBSI (6% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.023). Conclusions: GNs are an increasing cause of CRBSI in cancer patients, particularly in solid tumor patients carrying port reservoirs. Multidrug resistance among GNs is also increasing and is associated with higher rates of IEAT. Decreased 48 h survival was associated with the non-removal of the catheter. These findings should be considered when deciding on early therapeutic management for cancer patients with suspected CRBSI.

Home Parenteral Nutrition for Children: What Are the Factors Indicating Dependence and Mortality?

Parenteral nutrition (PN) in children with short bowel syndrome is crucial and lifesaving. Taking care of such patients requires interprofessional practice and multiple team resource management. Home PN (HPN) usage allows patients and families to live regular lives outside hospitals. We share our experiences for the last two decades and identify the risk factors for complications and mortality. A retrospective study of HPN patients was conducted between January 2000 and February 2022. Medical records of age, body weight, diagnosis, length of residual intestines, HPN period, central line attempts, complications, weaning, and survival were collected and analyzed. The patients were classified as HPN free, HPN dependent, and mortality groups. A total of 25 patients received HPN at our outpatient clinic, and one was excluded for the adult age of disease onset. There were 13 patients (54.1%) who were successfully weaned from HPN until the record-enroled date. The overall mortality rate was 20.8% (five patients). All mortality cases had prolonged cholestasis, Child Class B or C, and a positive Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease (PELD) score. For HPN dependence, extended resection and multiple central line placement were two significant independent factors. Cholestasis, Child Class B or C, and positive PELD score were the most important risk factors for mortality. The central line-related complication rate was not different in all patient groups. The overall central line infection rate was 1.58 per 1000 catheter days. Caution should be addressed to prevent cholestasis and intestinal failure-associated liver disease during the HPN period, to prevent mortality. By understanding the risks of HPN dependence and mortality, preventive procedures could be addressed earlier.

In Vivo Effectiveness of Several Antimicrobial Locks To Eradicate Intravascular Catheter Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci Biofilms

Tunneled central venous catheter (TCVC) related infection remains a challenge in the care of hemodialysis patients. We aimed to determine the best antimicrobial lock therapy (ALT) to eradicate coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) biofilms. We studied the colonization status of the catheter every 30 days by quantitative blood cultures (QBC) drawn through all catheter lumens. Those patients with a significant culture (i.e.,100 to 1,000 CFU/mL) of a CoNS were classified as patients with a high risk of developing catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI). They were assigned to receive daptomycin, vancomycin, teicoplanin lock solution, or the standard of care (SoC) (i.e., heparin lock). The primary endpoint was to compare eradication ability (i.e., negative QBC for 30 days after ending ALT) rates between different locks and the SoC. A second objective was to analyze the correlation between ALT exposure and isolation of CoNS with antimicrobial resistance. Daptomycin lock was associated with a significant higher eradication success than with the SoC: 85% versus 30% (relative risk [RR] = 14, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.4 - 82.7); followed by teicoplanin locks with a 83.3% success (RR = 11.7; 95% CI = 2 - 70.2). We observed CoNs isolates with a higher teicoplanin MIC in patients with repeated teicoplanin locks exposure (coefficient = 0.3; 95% CI = 0.11 - 0.47). However, teicoplanin MICs decreased in patients treated with vancomycin locks (coefficient = -0.56; 95% CI = -0.85 - -0.02). Methicillin-resistance decreased with accumulative ALT (RR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.69 - 0.98). In this study, daptomycin locks achieve the highest eradication rate of CoNS from hemodialysis catheters in vivo.

Disseminated nontuberculous mycobacteria infection in an immunocompetent host: A case report

RATIONALE

Disseminated nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections are rare and occur primarily in immunocompromised hosts. Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC), including M abscessus subsp. massiliense (hereafter M massiliense) is a complex of rapidly growing mycobacterial (RGM) species of NTM. Here, we present a rare case of disseminated NTM infection with RGM bacteremia caused by M massiliense in an immunocompetent host.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 64-year-old woman with a recent history of spine fracture and septic pneumonia was transferred to our emergency room for dyspnea and fever. A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) had been placed over 6 months prior.

DIAGNOSES

Chest computed tomography (CT) showed multifocal patchy consolidations and ground-glass opacity in both lungs. NTM suspected of RGM was isolated from the blood cultures. During hospitalization, multiple erythematous and hemorrhagic crusted nodules developed on the patient's upper and lower extremities, which were confirmed as disseminated NTM infection on skin biopsy.

INTERVENTIONS

After NTM suspected of RGM was isolated from the blood cultures, the patient was empirically treated with antibiotics used for NTM infection, and the PICC was removed. Thereafter, the subspecies of NTM was reported as M massiliense and she was treated according to the antibiotic susceptibility testing results.

OUTCOME

Although skin lesions and inflammatory markers improved gradually during antibiotic treatment over 10 weeks, NTM could still be isolated from the blood culture.

LESSONS

Disseminated NTM infections with RGM bacteremia in an immunocompetent host have rarely been reported. In this case, PICC placement for more than 6 months was suspected to be an important risk factor for RGM bacteremia in an immunocompetent patient. To date, there are only insufficient case reports, moreover no clear guidelines regarding the optimal choice of antibiotics or length of treatment for disseminated NTM infection. Therefore, it is necessary to establish treatment guidelines for patients with disseminated NTM infection and bacteremia.

Urokinase-based lock solutions for catheter salvage: A case of an upcoming kidney transplant recipient

Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a significant complication among patients on haemodialysis (HD) who are dependent on a central venous catheter (CVC) for an extended period. Catheter removal as first-line treatment can induce accelerated venous access site depletion in patients on HD who rely on it to survive. It is possible to retain the catheter in stable patients without septic syndrome while administering systemic antibiotics and antibiotic lock therapy. Herein, we report the case of a patient on HD with CRBSI who was successfully treated with intravenous levofloxacin- and urokinase-based antibiotic lock, without catheter removal prior to kidney transplantation. The use of urokinase in combination with antibiotics in lock solutions for treating catheter infections is rare. We verified the physical compatibility of levofloxacin and urokinase by visual inspection, turbidimetric measurements, and particle count. To our knowledge, this was a rare case demonstrating the effective use of urokinase and levofloxacin in a catheter lock for CRBSI in a patient on HD. Considering the need for highly concentrated antimicrobials and the availability of various antibiotics, the compatibility and stability of the lock solution is a matter of concern. Further studies are warranted to assess the stability and compatibility of various antibiotics in combination with urokinase.

Long-term survival following fungal catheter-related bloodstream infection for patients with intestinal failure receiving home parenteral support

BACKGROUND

A fungal-related catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is less frequent than those induced by bacteria. In the past, a single episode of fungal CRBSI has been used as a marker of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) failure and thus a possible indication for intestinal transplantation.

METHODS

Survival outcomes were assessed from a prospectively maintained database of patients initiated on HPN for underlying chronic intestinal failure between 1993 and 2018, with a censoring date of December 31, 2020. Cox regression was performed to assess predictors of mortality with univariable and multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 1008 patients were included in the study, with a total of 1 364 595 catheter days. There were 513 CRBSI events recorded in 262 patients, equating to a CRBSI rate of 0.38/1000 catheter days. A total of 38/262 (14.5%) patients had at least one episode of fungal CRBSI, whereas 216/262 (82.4%) had at least one bacterial but no fungal CRBSI. The median time between HPN initiation and the first CRBSI episode was 20.6 months (95% confidence interval, 16.5-24.1). Episodes of fungal or bacterial CRBSI and the number of CRBSI episodes were not associated with increased mortality. Overall, 15 CRBSI-related deaths were observed in the observation period (0.01 CRBSI deaths/1000 catheter days), two of these were fungal in origin.

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of a fungal CRBSI does not increase the risk of death compared with patients who have bacterial CRBSI or those without a CRBSI event.

Safety and outcome of ultrasound-guided tunneled central venous catheter in children with cancers from low middle-income country: A prospective study

BACKGROUND

Central venous access devices (CVAD) are vital for cancer therapeutics in pediatric oncology. Tunneled vascular access devices (TVAD) are preferred in children for prolonged and frequent vascular access. Data on insertion, care, and complications of CVAD in children from low middle-income countries (LMIC) are scarce, heterogeneous, and retrospective.

PROCEDURE

This prospective observational study on eligible children <12 years with pediatric malignancies requiring chemotherapy for minimum 6 months from diagnosis excluded children with mucosal bleeding, coagulopathy, and infections. TVAD insertion was ultrasound (USG) guided. Number of catheter-days, surgical and nonsurgical complications, and risk factors for catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) were noted TVAD removal due to complications, therapy completion, tumor progression, or death.

RESULTS

Data from 61 of 86 eligible children with median age 42 months (range 1-144) were analyzed. Hematological malignancy and severe thrombocytopenia were seen in 37/61 (61%) and 18/61 (30%) children, respectively. First-attempt success rate was 74%. Surgical complications were seen in four of 61 (7%). Nonsurgical complications were seen in 33/61 (54%) children; CRBSI was commonest 24/61 (39%), causing removal of TVAD in 14/61 (23%). Incidence per 1000 catheter-days for CRBSI was 3.24. Antibiotic lock therapy could salvage nine of 24 TVAD with CRBSI. Thrombus and accidental removal was seen in six of 61 (10%) and four of 61 (7%). None of the studied risk factors were significantly associated with CRBSI. The mean insertion duration of TVAD was 121 ± 90 days.

CONCLUSION

USG-guided TVAD insertion is safe and reliable way for chemotherapy administration with acceptable complications in children with malignancies in LMIC, including children with severe thrombocytopenia.

Taurolidine lock in the treatment of colonization and infection of totally implanted venous access devices in cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Taurolidine lock is known to be effective in preventing catheter-related infections in a variety of venous access devices, including long term venous access devices for chemotherapy. Though, literature about the use of taurolidine for treating catheter colonization or catheter-related blood stream infection is scarce.

METHOD

We have retrospectively reviewed the safety and efficacy of 2% taurolidine lock for treatment of catheter-colonization and of catheter-related bloodstream infection in cancer patients with totally implanted venous access devices. Diagnosis of colonization or catheter-related infection was based on paired peripheral and central blood cultures, according to the method of Delayed Time to Positivity.

RESULTS

We recorded 24 cases of catheter-related infection and two cases of colonization. Taurolidine lock-associated with systemic antibiotic therapy-was successful in treating all cases of catheter-related infection, with disappearance of clinical symptoms, normalization of laboratory values, and eventually negative blood cultures. Taurolidine lock was also safe and effective in treating device colonization. No adverse effect was reported.

CONCLUSION

In our retrospective analysis, 2% taurolidine lock was completely safe and highly effective in the treatment of both catheter-colonization and catheter-related bloodstream infection in cancer patients with totally implanted venous access devices.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Utility of Positive Intravascular Catheter Tip Cultures

This study evaluated the performance and clinical utility of performing intravascular catheter tip cultures (CTC). A retrospective chart review was conducted over a 2.5 year period on all patients who demonstrated growth of at least one organism on CTC. There were a total of 391 CTC performed. 88 (23%) grew at least one organism, while 303 (77%) had no growth. Of the positive CTC, 81 (92%) had blood cultures (BC) collected within 14 days, whereas 7 (8%) did not. Of the positive CTC with BC, 67 (83%) were BC-positive, whereas 14 (17%) were negative. For cases with growth on both CTC and BC, the organisms identified were concordant for 46 (69%) cases and discordant for 21 (31%). Of the concordant cases, 43 (93%) were clinically considered to be bacterial bloodstream infections that were secondary to a catheter infection. For all of the positive CTC cases total, there was no change in the antibiotics or management, with the exceptions of 2 out of 88 (2%) cases. Catheters were removed and cultured for an average of 38.6 h (range: -98 to 288 h) after positive BC results were available. Most CTC are negative, and for the CTC that are positive, most are concordant with BC results. CTC results are generally only available several days after positive BC results are known. The CTC results did not alter the antibiotic therapy or management, with the exceptions of rare cases. As such, this study concludes that CTC do not contribute diagnostic or therapeutic value. Therefore, current guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America on catheter-related bloodstream infection diagnosis should be revised to exclude CTC collection. IMPORTANCE In patients with intravascular catheters who are febrile or have positive blood cultures and no other obvious sources of infection, catheter tip cultures are often obtained to evaluate potential catheter-related bloodstream infections. However, previous studies reported that the management of catheter-related bloodstream infection cases is entirely based on blood culture growth and susceptibilities and that catheter tip cultures have low diagnostic positive predictive value. Our study represents the largest contemporary evaluation that includes chart reviews on all positive catheter tip culture cases. We found that positive cultures led to no changes in antibiotics or management, except for in two cases. Furthermore, 92% of positive catheter tip cultures were associated with blood culture collections, and catheter cultures were generally available only several days after the blood culture results were known. Thus, our study supports the claim that positive catheter tip cultures add limited diagnostic and therapeutic value in suspected catheter-related bloodstream infections.

Risk factors associated with increased incidences of catheter-related bloodstream infection

We have implemented several preventive measures to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) in the general intensive care unit (ICU) of a university hospital in Japan. Here, we analyzed the factors associated with CLABSI in patients with central venous catheter (CVC) insertions and evaluated the effects of our implemented preventive measures. From July 2013 to June 2018, data was collected from the medical records of 1472 patients with 1635 CVC insertions, including age, sex, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score, duration of ICU stay, duration of catheter insertion, insertion site, and mechanical ventilation status. During weekly conferences, a surveillance team comprising intensive care and infection control doctors and nurses determined the patients' CLABSI status. The analyzed factors were compared between CLABSI and central line patients without bloodstream infection. Multivariate analysis revealed three factors associated with CLABSI. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were as follows: duration of ICU stay, 1.032 (1.019-1.044); duration of catheter insertion, 1.041 (1.015-1.066); and APACHE II score, 1.051 (1.000-1.105). The prominent risk factors were associated with the severity of the initial condition and exacerbation of the clinical condition of the patients during their stays in the ICU. Further strategies to reduce CLABSI must be developed.

Septic Pulmonary Emboli Detected by 18F-FDG PET/CT in a Patient with Central Venous Catheter-Related Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

We describe a case of ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT detecting septic pulmonary emboli in a patient with Staphylococcus aureus catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI). The patient, who had an implantable venous access port for chemotherapy, underwent ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT to diagnose unsuspected infectious foci. The PET/CT examination made it possible to offer a suggestive diagnosis and yielded metastatic infectious foci.

Antiseptic barrier caps to prevent central line-associated bloodstream infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Reliable and safe venous access is crucial for patients using central venous catheters (CVC). However, such CVCs carry a risk for central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). Antiseptic barrier caps (ABCs) are a novel tool in the armamentarium for CVC disinfection. Our aim was to review the efficacy and safety of ABCs.

METHOD

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library, and CINAHL. Primary aim was to compare CLABSI rates in patients using ABCs versus standard care. Secondary aims included efficacy of ABCs in relevant subgroups (age, ABC brand, clinical setting), safety, compliance, and costs. Fifteen studies were included in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 391 CLABSIs in 273,993 catheter days occurred in the intervention group versus 620 CLABSIs in 284,912 days in the standard care group, resulting in a risk ratio of 0.65 (95%CI 0.55-0.76; P<0.00001). Subgroup analyses showed similar effects, except for non-intensive care unit. In general, ABCs were safe, highly appreciated by patients and caregivers, and cost-effective, while compliance was easy to monitor. In most studies, a substantial risk of bias was observed.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, while available evidence suggests that ABCs are effective, safe, easy in use, and cost-effective. However, due to the poor methodological quality of most available studies, more robust data should justify their use at this point.

Bloodstream Infections in a COVID-19 Non-ICU Department: Microbial Epidemiology, Resistance Profiles and Comparative Analysis of Risk Factors and Patients' Outcome

Background: Bloodstream infections (BSI) caused by highly resistant pathogens in non-ICU COVID-19 departments pose important challenges. Methods: We performed a comparative analysis of incidence and microbial epidemiology of BSI in COVID-19 vs. non-COVID-19, non-ICU departments between 1 September 2020-31 October 2021. Risk factors for BSI and its impact on outcome were evaluated by a case-control study which included COVID-19 patients with/without BSI. Results: Forty out of 1985 COVID-19 patients developed BSI. The mean monthly incidence/100 admissions was 2.015 in COVID-19 and 1.742 in non-COVID-19 departments. Enterococcus and Candida isolates predominated in the COVID-19 group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.018, respectively). All Acinetobacter baumannii isolates were carbapenem-resistant (CR). In the COVID-19 group, 33.3% of Klebsiella pneumoniae was CR, 50% of Escherichia coli produced ESBL and 19% of Enterococcus spp. were VRE vs. 74.5%, 26.1% and 8.8% in the non-COVID-19 group, respectively. BSI was associated with prior hospitalization (p = 0.003), >2 comorbidities (p < 0.001), central venous catheter (p = 0.015), severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia and lack of COVID-19 vaccination (p < 0.001). In the multivariate regression model also including age and multiple comorbidities, only BSI was significantly associated with adverse in-hospital outcome [OR (CI95%): 21.47 (3.86−119.21), p < 0.001]. Conclusions: BSI complicates unvaccinated patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia and increases mortality. BSI pathogens and resistance profiles differ among COVID-19/non-COVID-19 departments, suggesting various routes of pathogen acquisition.

Trends in the epidemiology of catheter-related bloodstream infections; towards a paradigm shift, Spain, 2007 to 2019

BackgroundCatheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) are frequent healthcare-associated infections and an important cause of death.AimTo analyse changes in CRBSI epidemiology observed by the Infection Control Catalan Programme (VINCat).MethodsA cohort study including all hospital-acquired CRBSI episodes diagnosed at 55 hospitals (2007-2019) in Catalonia, Spain, was prospectively conducted. CRBSI incidence rates were adjusted per 1,000 patient days. To assess the CRBSI rate trend per year, negative binomial models were used, with the number of events as the dependent variable, and the year as the main independent variable. From each model, the annual rate of CRBSI diagnosed per 1,000 patient days and the incidence rate ratio (IRR) with its 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported.ResultsDuring the study, 9,290 CRBSI episodes were diagnosed (mean annual incidence rate: 0.20 episodes/1,000 patient days). Patients' median age was 64.1 years; 36.6% (3,403/9,290) were female. In total, 73.7% (n = 6,845) of CRBSI occurred in non-intensive care unit (ICU) wards, 62.7% (n = 5,822) were related to central venous catheter (CVC), 24.1% (n = 2,236) to peripheral venous catheters (PVC) and 13.3% (n = 1,232) to peripherally-inserted central venous catheters (PICVC). Incidence rate fell over the study period (IRR: 0.94; 95%CI: 0.93-0.96), especially in the ICU (IRR: 0.88; 95%CI: 0.87-0.89). As a whole, while episodes of CVC CRBSI fell significantly (IRR: 0.88; 95%CI: 0.87-0.91), peripherally-inserted catheter CRBSI (PVC and PICVC) rose, especially in medical wards (IRR PICVC: 1.08; 95%CI: 1.05-1.11; IRR PVC: 1.03; 95% 1.00-1.05).ConclusionsOver the study, CRBSIs associated with CVC and diagnosed in ICUs decreased while episodes in conventional wards involving peripherally-inserted catheters increased. Hospitals should implement preventive measures in conventional wards.

Comparison of Efficacy of 2% Chlorhexidine Gluconate-Alcohol and 10% Povidone-Iodine-Alcohol against Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections and Bacterial Colonization at Central Venous Catheter Insertion Sites: A Prospective, Single-Center, Open-Label, Crossover Study

An effective antiseptic agent is an essential component of a central venous catheter (CVC) care bundle, to protect against catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). We conducted a trial to compare the incidences of CRBSI and the growth of insertion site flora in patients with CVC using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate−alcohol (CHG) or 10% povidone-iodine−alcohol (PVI) in the CVC care bundle. Patients who were admitted to two medical intensive care units (ICUs) and had CVC placement for >48 h were enrolled. Using a two-way crossover design with two six-month interventions, the ICUs were assigned to use either CHG or PVI in their care bundles. A total of 446 catheters in 390 subjects were enrolled in the study. The detection rate of flora was greater in the PVI group on both day 7 (26.6% versus 6.3%, p < 0.001) and day 14 (43.2% versus 15.8%, p < 0.001). The incidence rate of CRBSI was higher in the PVI group compared to the CHG group (2.15 vs. 0 events per 1000-catheter-days, p = 0.001), although the significance was lost in the multivariate analysis. In conclusion, 2% CHG was superior to 10% PVI in the CVC care bundle in terms of the inhibition of skin flora growth at CVC insertion sites and was potentially associated with lower incidence rates of CRBSI.

Hemodialysis Catheters: Update on Types, Outcomes, Designs and Complications

Hemodialysis catheters (HDCs) are an essential part of kidney replacement therapy. While these catheters are considered only the bridge to long-term vascular access such as arteriovenous fistulas and grafts, they are associated with significant morbidity and mortality and subsequent increased health care expenditures. However, despite these risks, a large proportion of end stage kidney disease population initiates dialysis using these catheters. The pathogenicity of HDCs stems from its invasive nature to the venous vasculature tree resulting in both mechanical and infectious complications. Therefore, the wide use these catheters in dialysis population and the associated complications necessitated continuous innovations in the catheter material, design, and placement techniques. This review provides an update on the catheter types, catheter tip designs, and the new technologies and innovations aimed to improve the catheter functionality and mitigate its related complications.

Hypochlorous Acid-Generating Electrochemical Catheter Prototype for Prevention of Intraluminal Infection

Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) contributes to mortality and cost. While aseptic dressings and antibiotic-impregnated catheters prevent some extraluminal infections, intraluminal infections remain a source of CLABSIs. In this proof-of-concept study, an electrochemical intravascular catheter (e-catheter) prototype capable of electrochemically generating hypochlorous acid intraluminally using platinum electrodes polarized at a constant potential of 1.5 electrode potential relative to saturated silver/silver chloride reference electrode measured in volts (V_Ag/AgCl) was developed. After 24 h of prepolarization at 1.5 V_Ag/AgCl, their activity was tested against clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecium, and Escherichia coli derived from catheter-related infections. e-catheters generated a mean HOCl concentration of 15.86 ± 4.03 μM and had a mean pH of 6.14 ± 0.79. E-catheters prevented infections of all four species, with an average reduction of 8.41 ± 0.61 log₁₀ CFU/ml at 48 h compared to controls. Polarized e-catheters which generate low amounts of HOCl continuously should be further developed to prevent intraluminal infection. IMPORTANCE Catheter-related infections constitute an economic and mortality burden in health care. Several options are available to reduce the risk of infection, but only a few focus on preventing intraluminal infection, which occurs in long-term catheters, most often used for dialysis, prolonged treatment, or chemotherapy. A prototype of a catheter called an "e-catheter" composed of three electrodes, capable of producing hypochlorous acid (HOCl) electrochemically in its lumen, was developed. When polarized at 1.5 V, chloride ions in the solution are oxidized to continuously produce low amounts of HOCl, which exhibits antibacterial activity in the lumen of the catheter. Here, this prototype was shown to be able to generate HOCl as well as prevent infection in a preliminary in vitro catheter model. This approach is a potential strategy for catheter infection prevention.

Comparing success rates in central venous catheter salvage for catheter-related bloodstream infections in adult patients on home parenteral nutrition: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a life-threatening complication of parenteral nutrition. Therefore, optimal management, ideally with catheter salvage, is required to maintain long-term venous access.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate successful catheter salvage rates in patients on home parenteral nutrition (HPN).

METHODS

Studies were retrieved from medical databases, conference proceedings, and article reference lists. Data were collected relating to clinical outcomes of 3 treatments: systemic antibiotics, antimicrobial lock therapy (ALT), and catheter exchange. ORs and 95% CIs were calculated from a mixed logistic effects model.

RESULTS

From 10,036 identified publications, 28 met the inclusion criteria (22 cohort studies, 5 case-control studies, and 1 randomized clinical trial), resulting in a total of 4911 CRBSIs. To achieve successful catheter salvage, the addition of an antimicrobial lock solution was superior to systemic antibiotics alone (OR: 1.75; 95% CI: 1.21, 2.53; P = 0.003). Recurrence of infection was less common in studies that used ALT than in those that used systemic antibiotics alone (OR: 0.26; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.61; P = 0.002). The catheter exchange group was excluded from multilevel regression analysis because only 1 included study applied this treatment. Successful salvage rates were highest for coagulase-negative staphylococci, followed by Gram-negative rods and Staphylococcus aureus .

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of an antimicrobial lock solution seems beneficial for successful catheter salvage in HPN-dependent patients with a CRBSI. Future prospective randomized studies should identify the most effective and pathogen-specific strategy.This review was registered at www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO as CRD42018102959.

Risk Factors of Candida parapsilosis Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection

Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is an important healthcare-associated infection caused by various nosocomial pathogens. Candida parapsilosis has emerged as a crucial causative agent for the CRBSI in the last two decades. Many factors have been associated with the development of CRBSI including, demography, pre-maturity, comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, hypertension, heart diseases, neuropathy, respiratory diseases, renal dysfunction, hematological and solid organ malignancies, and intestinal dysfunction), intensive care unit (ICU) admission, mechanical ventilation (MV), total parenteral nutrition (TPN), prior antibiotic and/or antifungal therapy, neutropenia, prior surgery, immunosuppressant, and type, site, number, and duration of catheters. This study aims to determine C. parapsilosis CRBSI risk factors. A retrospective study has been performed in an 853-bedded tertiary-care hospital in north-eastern Malaysia. All inpatients with C. parapsilosis positive blood cultures from January 2006 to December 2018 were included, and their medical records were reviewed using a standardized checklist. Out of 208 candidemia episodes, 177 had at least one catheter during admission, and 31 cases had not been catheterized and were excluded. Among the 177 cases, 30 CRBSI cases were compared to 147 non-CRBSI cases [81 bloodstream infections (BSIs), 66 catheter colonizers]. The significance of different risk factors was calculated using multivariate analysis. Multivariate analysis of potential risk factors shows that ICU admission was significantly associated with non-CRBSI as compared to CRBSI [OR, 0.242; 95% CI (0.080-0.734); p = 0.012], and TPN was significantly positively associated with CRBSI than non-CRBSI [OR, 3.079; 95%CI (1.125-8.429); p = 0.029], while other risk factors were not associated significantly. Patients admitted in ICU were less likely to develop C. parapsilosis CRBSI while patients receiving TPN were more likely to have C. parapsilosis CRBSI when compared to the non-CRBSI group.

Adolescent eating disorder with catheter-related bloodstream infection

BACKGROUND

Treatment of adolescent eating disorder requires early improvement of nutritional status. Central venous hyperalimentation is used but catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a complication. There have been no reports examining risk factors for CRSBI in eating disorders.

METHODS

The subjects were 51 patients who received nutritional therapy with the use of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) from January 2012 to December 2019. The courses of weight and white blood cell (WBC) count were examined retrospectively during nutritional therapy. Onset factors for CRBSI were determined and a case series of CRBSI caused by Candida parapsilosis is presented.

RESULTS

The day of minimum weight occurred on or before day 7 in 37 of the 51 patients, and this day was preceded by the day with the lowest WBC at a significant rate. The minimum weight day was significantly delayed in CRSBI cases compared with non-CRBSI cases (P = 0.02). In the case series of CRBSI caused by C. parapsilosis, the median WBC count before CRBSI decreased to 2,570 (1,680-3,270)/μL at a median of day (12-90) 36. Catheter-related bloodstream infection developed at a median of day (26-133) 38. The PICC was immediately removed and an antifungal drug was started, leading to cure with no after effects in all subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with an eating disorder treated with nutritional therapy using a PICC, prolonged resistance to weight gain became a risk factor for developing CRBSI. White blood cell counts recover after weight gain, which suggests that there is a risk of developing CRBSI, even with improved appetite and weight gain.

Elimination of hospital-acquired central line-associated bloodstream infection on a mixed-service pediatric unit

INTRODUCTION

Hospital-acquired central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are "never events" in U.S. healthcare. National efforts to improve CLABSI rates are ongoing. Efforts are important for all patients with a central venous catheter (CVC) and critical to children with intestinal failure (IF) who depend on long-term, daily use of a CVC and undergo extended hospitalizations. We describe outcomes of a multidisciplinary CLABSI elimination effort on a 24-bed medical-surgical unit caring for children with IF.

METHODS

Unit CLABSI events from 1/9/2012 to 4/16/2020 were evaluated with multiple improvement interventions. We leveraged prospectively maintained clinical registries and National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) reporting data to extract patient and unit demographics, ethanol lock utilization, and unit CVC days. Interventions were developed utilizing expert consensus and CDC guidelines with active frontline staff engagement. Descriptive statistics and tests of non-parametric data were employed for analysis.

RESULTS

Ninety-five patients with IF and 862 non-IF patients experienced a total of 1,629 admissions with 20,372 CVC days. Twelve hospital-acquired CLABSI events occurred during the study period, including 7 following NHSN definition change on 1/1/2015 (0.56 per 1,000 CVC days). After the last unit CLABSI on 12/5/2016, there were 7,117 CVC days through study conclusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Described interventions with an enhanced culture of collaborative care profoundly improved hospital-acquired CLABSI occurrence. Success in a specific population translated to all other unit patients with a CVC. Findings suggest elimination is not the result of a single new product or practice, but also includes support and empowerment of those caring for the patient and their CVC.

Role of echocardiography in uncomplicated Staphylococcus aureus catheter-related bloodstream infections

Uncomplicated bacteremia and catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) are frequently suggested as factors associated with low risk of infective endocarditis in Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB). Nevertheless, guidelines recommend that echocardiography in all patients with SAB. We evaluated the effects of echocardiography on patient outcomes. Patients with uncomplicated S. aureus CRBSI were retrospectively identified between January 2013 and June 2018 at a 1950-bed, tertiary-care university hospital. Treatment failure was defined as any case of relapse or all-cause death within 90 days. Of 890 SAB patients, 95 with uncomplicated S. aureus CRBSI were included. Thirty-two patients underwent echocardiography within 30 days of their first positive blood culture. Two patients who underwent echocardiography revealed right-sided infective endocarditis. One patient who did not undergo echocardiography experienced recurrent SAB (peripheral CRBSI) 85 days after his first positive blood culture. There were no SAB-related deaths. The Kaplan-Meier curves of treatment failure showed no significant differences between patients who did and did not undergo echocardiography (P = .77). In multivariable analysis, risk factors for treatment failure were liver cirrhosis (hazard ratio: 9.60; 95% confidence interval: 2.13-43.33; P = .003) and other prostheses (hazard ratio: 63.79; 95% confidence interval: 5.05-805.40; P = .001). This study did not verify the putative association between treatment failure and implementation of echocardiography in patients with uncomplicated S. aureus CRBSI. Given the low observed rates of adverse outcomes, routine echocardiography might not be obligatory and could be performed on an individual basis.

Retrospective survey from vascular access team Lombardy net in COVID-19 era

BACKGROUND

Venous Access Devices (VADs) are the most used devices in COVID-19 patients.

OBJECTIVE

Identify VADs implanted, catheter related thrombosis (CRT), catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), and accidental remove of VADs in both COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 free patients. Successive analysis was conducted comparing COVID-19 positive patients with COVID-19 free with inverse probability propensity score weights using simple regression to account for these two confounders (peripheral tip as central/peripheral and hospitalization as no/yes).

METHODS

This multicenter, retrospective cohort study collected data from seven hospitals in Lombardy during the pandemic period from February 21st to May 31st 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 2206 VADs were evaluated, 1107 (50.2%) of which were inserted in COVID-19 patients. In COVID-19 cohort the first choice was Long Peripheral Cannula in 388 patients (35.1%) followed by Midline Catheter in 385 (34.8%). The number of "central tip" VADs inserted in COVID-free inpatients and COVID-19 positive were similar (307 vs 334). We recorded 42 (1.9%) CRT; 32 (79.2%) were observed in COVID-19 patients. A total of 19 CRBSI were diagnosed; 15 (78.95%) were observed in COVID-19. Accidental removals were the more represented complication with 123 cases, 85 (69.1%) of them were in COVID-19. COVID-19 significantly predicted occurrence of CRT (OR = 2.00(1.85-5.03); p < 0.001), CRSB (OR = 3.82(1.82-8.97); p < 0.001), and Accidental Removal (OR = 2.39(1.80-3.20); p < 0.001) in our propensity score weighted models.

CONCLUSIONS

CRT, CRBSI, and accidental removal are significantly more frequent in COVID-19 patients. Accidental removals are the principal complication, for this reason, the use of subcutaneously anchored securement is recommended for a shorter period than usual.

Risk of catheter-related bloodstream infection associated with midline catheters compared with peripherally inserted central catheters: A meta-analysis

Background

Both midline catheters (MCs) and peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) can cause catheter‐related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), but the prevalence associated with each is not clear.

Objective

To compare the risk of CRBSI between MCs and PICCs with a meta‐analysis.

Methods

The Web of Science Core Collection, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, The Cochrane Library and ProQuest were searched. All studies comparing the risk of CRBSI between MCs and PICCs were included. Selected studies were assessed for methodological quality using the Downs and Black checklist. Two authors independently assessed the literature and extracted the data. A fixed effects model was used to generate estimates of CRBSI risk in patients with MCs versus PICCs. Publication bias was evaluated, and meta‐analyses were conducted with RevMan 5.3.

Results

A total of 167 studies were identified. Ten studies were collected, involving 33,322 patients. The prevalence of CRBSI with MCs and PICCs was 0.58% (40/6,900) and 0.48% (127/26,422), respectively. Meta‐analysis showed that the prevalence of CRBSI was not significantly different between MCs and PICCs (RR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.50–1.17, p = .22). While the result showed that the prevalence of CRBSI with MCs was lower than that with PICCs (RR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.33–0.92, p = .02) after poor‐quality studies were removed. The sensitivity analysis shows that the results from this meta‐analysis are fair in overall studies and non‐poor‐quality studies. All studies have no significant publication bias.

Conclusions

This study provides the first systematic assessment of the risk of CRBSI between MCs and PICCs and provides evidence for the selection of appropriate vascular access devices for intravenous infusion therapy in nursing. The prevalence of CRBSI was not significantly different between them.

Ultrasound Guidance and Risk for Central Venous Catheter-Related Infections in the Intensive Care Unit: A Post Hoc Analysis of Individual Data of 3 Multicenter Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound (US) guidance is frequently used in critically ill patients for central venous catheter (CVC) insertion. The effect of US on infectious risk remains controversial, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have assessed mainly noninfectious complications. This study assessed infectious risk associated with catheters inserted with US guidance vs use of anatomical landmarks.

METHODS

We used individual data from 3 large RCTs for which a prospective, high-quality data collection was performed. Adult patients were recruited in various intensive care units (ICUs) in France as soon as they required short-term CVC insertion. We applied marginal Cox models with inverse probability weighting to estimate the effect of US-guided insertion on catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs, primary outcome) and major catheter-related infections (MCRIs, secondary outcome).We also evaluated insertion site colonization at catheter removal.

RESULTS

Our post hoc analysis included 4636 patients and 5502 catheters inserted in 2088 jugular, 1733 femoral, and 1681 subclavian veins, in 19 ICUs. US guidance was used for 2147 catheter insertions. Among jugular and femoral CVCs and after weighting, we found an association between US and CRBSI (hazard ratio [HR], 2.21 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.17-4.16]; P = .014) and between US and MCRI (HR, 1.55 [95% CI, 1.01-2.38]; P = .045). Catheter insertion site colonization at removal was more common in the US-guided group (P = .0045) among jugular and femoral CVCs in situ for ≤7 days (n = 606).

CONCLUSIONS

In prospectively collected data in which catheters were not randomized to insertion by US or anatomical landmarks, US guidance was associated with increased risk of infection.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of S. Aureus Bacteremia in Patients Receiving Total Parenteral Nutrition

Background: Patients on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) are at risk of developing central line-associated infections. Specifically, Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) is feared for its high complication rates. This prospective cohort study compares characteristics, clinical course and outcome of SAB in patients with and without TPN support. Methods: Clinical and microbiological data from all patients with positive blood cultures for S. aureus from two facilities, including our referral center for TPN support, were retrieved (period 2013-2020). Primary outcome was overall mortality, and included survival analysis using a multivariate Cox regression model. Secondary outcomes comprised a comparison of clinical characteristics and outcomes between both patient groups and analysis of factors associated with complicated outcome (e.g., endocarditis, deep-seated foci, relapse and death) in patients on TPN specifically. Results: A total of 620 SAB cases were analyzed, of which 53 cases received TPN at the moment the blood culture was taken. Patients in the TPN group were more frequently female, younger and had less comorbidity (p < 0.001). In-hospital death and overall mortality were significantly lower in TPN patients (4% vs. 18%, p = 0.004 and 10% vs. 34%, p < 0.001, respectively). Positive follow-up blood cultures, delayed onset of therapy and previous catheter problems were associated with a higher incidence of complicated SAB outcome in patients on TPN. Conclusion: Our data show that patients on TPN have a milder course of SAB with lower mortality rates compared to non-TPN SAB patients.

Effects of blood flow on the antibacterial efficacy of chlorhexidine and silver sulfadiazine coated central venous catheter: A simulation-based pilot study

BACKGROUND

Chlorhexidine and silver sulfadiazine coated central venous catheters (CSS-CVC) may cause loss of antimicrobial efficacy due to friction between the CVC surface and sheer stress caused by the blood flow. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial efficacy of CSS-CVC at various flow rates using a bloodstream model.

METHODS

Each CVC was subjected to various flow rates (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 L/min) and wear-out times (0, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours), and the optical density (OD) 600 after a Staphylococcus aureus incubation test was used to determine the antibacterial effect of CSS-CVC.

RESULTS

In the 0.5 L/min group, there was no significant change in the OD600 value up to 120 hours compared with the baseline OD600 value for CSS-CVC (P > .467). However, the OD600 values of CSS-CVC in the 1 L/min (P < .001) and 2 L/min (P < .001) groups were significantly reduced up to 72 hours, while that in the 4 L/min (p < 0.001) group decreased rapidly up to 48 hours.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that there is a doubt whether sufficient antibacterial function can be maintained with prolonged duration of catheter placement.

Use of Catheter Lock Solutions in Patients Receiving Home Parenteral Nutrition: A Systematic Review and Individual-Patient Data Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Use of catheter lock solutions (CLSs) as a strategy to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) has been evaluated in recent clinical trials. Our aim was to identify the most effective CLS formulation in patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN).

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and individual-patient data meta-analysis (IPDMA). Prospective randomized clinical trials in adult HPN patients using CLS were identified from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Primary outcome was the number of CRBSIs per 1000 catheter days for each CLS. Other outcomes included time to CRBSI and identification of patients with a higher risk for CRBSIs.

RESULTS

In total, 1107 studies were screened for eligibility, of which three studies comprising 162 HPN patients and 45,695 catheter days were included in the IPDMA. CRBSI rates were significantly decreased in patients using taurolidine (rate 0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.05-0.32) when compared with saline (rate 0.74; 95% CI, 0.31-1.74; P = .002) or heparin (rate 2.01; 95% CI, 1.03-3.91; P < .001). The cumulative proportion of CRBSI-free patients using taurolidine, saline, and heparin after 1 year was 88%, 56%, and 14%, respectively. Three risk factors for CRBSIs were identified: type of CLS, intestinal dysmotility as underlying condition, and use of central venous catheters.

CONCLUSIONS

Taurolidine was the most effective CLS formulation in HPN patients for the prevention of CRBSIs. We suggest discussing with patients the benefits and risks when starting taurolidine, especially in patients who are considered to have a higher risk for CRBSIs.

Comparative Complication Rates of 854 Central Venous Access Devices for Home Parenteral Nutrition in Cancer Patients: A Prospective Study of Over 169,000 Catheter-Days

BACKGROUND

Whether peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are appropriate as safe and durable venous access devices (VADs) is still controversial. The aim of this 7-year, prospective cohort study was to compare the incidence rate differences of catheter-related complications (CRCs) among 4 types of central VADs in cancer patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN).

METHODS

We enrolled all adult cancer outpatients who were candidates for HPN and who had a central VAD inserted during the study period, focusing on the incidence rate of CRCs.

RESULTS

We evaluated 854 central VADs (401 PICCs, 137 nontunneled centrally inserted central catheters [CICCs], 118 tunneled-cuffed CICCs, and 198 ports) in 761 patients, for a total of 169,116 catheter-days. Overall, the rate of total CRCs was 1.08/1000 catheter-days. The incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections was low (0.29/1000), particularly for PICCs (0.08/1000; P < .001 vs tunneled-cuffed CICCs) and for ports (0.21/1000; P < .019 vs tunneled-cuffed CICCs). The rates of mechanical complications (0.58/1000) and of catheter-related symptomatic thrombosis (0.09/1000) were low and similar for PICCs, tunneled-cuffed CICCs, and ports. In terms of duration and removal rate due to complications, PICCs were like tunneled-cuffed CICCs and ports. Altogether, PICCs had fewer total complications than tunneled-cuffed CICCs (P < .001), there was no difference in total complications between PICCs and ports.

CONCLUSION

PICCs had significantly better outcomes than tunneled-cuffed CICCs and were safe and durable as ports. Our extensive, long-term study suggests that PICCs can be successfully used as safe and long-lasting VADs for HPN in cancer patients.

A New Antibiotic-Loaded Sol-Gel can Prevent Bacterial Intravenous Catheter-Related Infections

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a moxifloxacin-loaded organic-inorganic sol-gel (A50) by locally preventing the catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) provoked by Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) and the effect resulting from its hydrolytic degradation on coagulation by using a rabbit in-vivo model. A50 coating can completely inhibit growth and would locally prevent CRBSI provoked by S. epidermidis. None of the coagulation blood parameters showed a significant difference constant over time between the control catheter group and the A50-coated catheter group, despite the visible silica release resulting from physiological A50 sol-gel degradation detected in serum at least during the first week. At pathological level, foreign body reaction was present in both of types of catheter, and it was characterized by the presence of macrophages and foreign body giant cell. However, this reaction was different in each group: the A50-coated catheter group showed a higher inflammation with histiocytes, which were forming granuloma-like aggregates with an amorphous crystalline material inside, accompanied by other inflammatory cells such as plasma cells, lymphocytes and mast cells. In conclusion, A50 coating a venous catheter showed excellent bactericidal anti-biofilm response since it completely inhibited S. epidermidis biofilm development and, far from showing procoagulant effects, showed slightly anticoagulant effects.

Antimicrobial Lock Therapy in Clinical Practice: A Scoping Review Protocol

Our objective is to review the scientific literature on the use of antimicrobial lock therapy (ALT). To achieve this result, our scoping review will address the following seven key questions: 1) Who are the patients who will benefit from this technique? 2) What are the techniques utilized? 3) What are the settings in which the technique is performed? 4) When the technique is performed? 5) Why the technique is performed? 6) How the technique is performed? 7) In how much amount, of such technique performed? This review considers all studies published in full and in peer-reviewed journals, with no restrictions on language, on the year of publication and age of the participants. Both randomized controlled trials and observational studies will be included. This scoping review has been planned on a five-stage framework: 1. Identifying the review question; 2. identifying relevant studies; 3. study selection; 4. charting the data; 5. collating, summarizing, and reporting the results. It is conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines. The databases utilized will include MEDLINE via PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Grey Literature. SCOPING REVIEW REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework https://osf.io/vphwm/.

Antimicrobial Locks in Patients Receiving Home Parenteral Nutrition

Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is one of the most common and potentially fatal complications in patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN). In order to prevent permanent venous access loss, catheter locking with an antimicrobial solution has received significant interest and is often a favored approach as part of the treatment of CRBSI, but mainly for its prevention. Several agents have been used for treating and preventing CRBSI, for instance antibiotics, antiseptics (ethanol, taurolidine) and, historically, anticoagulants such as heparin. Nonetheless, current guidelines do not provide clear guidance on the use of catheter locks. Therefore, this review aims to provide a better understanding of the current use of antimicrobial locking in patients on HPN as well as reviewing the available data on novel compounds. Despite the fact that our current knowledge on catheter locking is still hampered by several gaps, taurolidine and ethanol solutions seem promising for prevention and potentially, but not proven, treatment of CRBSI. Additional studies are warranted to further characterize the efficacy and safety of these agents.

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial (TAURCAT Study) of Citrate Lock Solution for Prevention of Endoluminal Central Venous Catheter Infection in Neutropenic Hematological Patients

Infection of long-term central venous catheters (CVCs) remains a challenge in the clinical management of cancer patients. We aimed to determine whether a lock solution with taurolidine-citrate-heparin would be more effective than placebo for preventing nontunneled CVC infection in high-risk neutropenic hematologic patients. We performed a prospective, multicenter, randomized (1:1), double-blind, parallel, superiority, placebo-controlled trial involving 150 hematological patients with neutropenia carrying nontunneled CVCs who were assigned to receive CVC lock solution with taurolidine-citrate-heparin or heparin alone. The primary endpoint was bacterial colonization of the CVC hubs. Secondary endpoints were the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), CVC removal, adverse events related to the lock solution, and the 30-day case fatality rate. CVC lock solution with taurolidine-citrate-heparin was associated with less colonization of the CVC hubs than that with placebo, with no statistically significant differences: 4.1%, versus 10.1% (relative risk [RR] = 0.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.11 to 1.52), with a cumulative incidence of 4.17 (95% CI = 0.87 to 11.70) and 10.14 (95% CI = 4.18 to 19.79), respectively. There were no significant differences regarding the secondary endpoints. Only three episodes of CRBSI occurred during the study period. No adverse events related to the administration of the lock solution occurred. In this trial involving high-risk patients carrying nontunneled CVCs, the use of taurolidine-citrate-heparin did not show a benefit over the use of placebo. Nevertheless, the safety of this prevention strategy and the trend toward less hub colonization in the taurolidine-citrate-heparin group raise the interest in assessing its efficacy in centers with higher rates of CRBSI. (This study has been registered in ISRCTN under identifier ISRCTN47102251.).

Bactericidal and Antiproliferative Effects of Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition Solutions with Sodium Bisulfite on Pathogenic Microorganisms in Catheter Lumens

Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) due to pathogenic microorganisms pose a major threat to patients requiring parenteral nutrition (PN). Additives contained in medicines and foods have antiproliferative and bacteriostatic effects on pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, PN solutions containing additives may also have an antibacterial effect. However, so far, there have been no reports on or observations of a PN solution with bactericidal activity. In this study, we assessed several nutrition solutions with antimicrobial activities and investigated their effects on pathogenic microorganisms colonizing catheter lumens. We selected the highly acidic Plas-Amino^® (PA), which contains a large amount of sodium bisulfite as a preservative and potentially has an antimicrobial effect. In this study, we used the following pathogenic bacteria as the main causatives of CRBSIs: Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus cereus, Serratia marcescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. We then created a catheter lumen microorganism contamination model and evaluated the antibacterial effect of PA; we found that all bacteria in the control group grew significantly in the catheter lumen in a time-dependent manner at 48 and 72 h. On the other hand, we demonstrated that PA has bactericidal effects on S. aureus, S. epidermidis, B. cereus, S. marcescens, and P. aeruginosa in the catheter lumen and confirmed that it has a remarkable antiproliferative effect on C. albicans. Hence, we concluded that highly acidic PN solutions that contain a preservative like sodium bisulfite have bactericidal and growth inhibition effects on microorganisms in the catheter lumens of patients with CRBSIs and patients with totally implantable central venous access devices, in whom it is difficult to remove the catheter.