Current opinion in infectious diseases
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Curr. Opin. Infect. Dis. · Dec 2010
ReviewMultiresistant Gram-negative infections: a global perspective.
Multiresistant Gram-negative infections are an increasing problem in hospitals and healthcare facilities worldwide. While much attention has been paid to Gram-positive pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus lately, the importance of Gram-negative nosocomial infections has also been recognized globally. ⋯ Clinicians need to be aware of the rising problem of resistance in nosocomial and community-acquired Gram-negative pathogens. Novel agents are urgently needed to combat these infections and innovative infection control strategies need to be devised to protect our vulnerable patients.
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Curr. Opin. Infect. Dis. · Dec 2010
ReviewNew molecular and surrogate biomarker-based tests in the diagnosis of bacterial and fungal infection in febrile neutropenic patients.
Prompt diagnosis of infection in febrile neutropenia hosts with hematological malignancy is essential in directing therapy. We highlight experience using modern molecular and biomarker-based methods to diagnose bacterial and fungal bloodstream infections and invasive aspergillosis in these patients. ⋯ Numerous PCR-based and biomarker tools are available for the diagnosis and screening of infection in febrile neutropenia hosts. The optimal approach remains to be resolved by prospective studies examining the impact of one or more of tests on patient outcomes.
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Enteric fever continues to be an important infection among populations in endemic countries and among travelers to these areas. This review aims to describe recent epidemiological trends and developments in diagnosis, treatment and prevention. ⋯ The ongoing emergence of S. Paratyphi A results in partial benefit from current typhoid vaccines in the prevention of enteric fever in travelers. Increasing antimicrobial resistance complicates therapy for travel-related enteric fever. New vaccines, offering protection against both agents of enteric fever, are urgently needed; however, none of the current vaccine candidates is likely to be available for several years.
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Curr. Opin. Infect. Dis. · Aug 2010
ReviewPrevention of healthcare-associated infections in children: new strategies and success stories.
Attention to patient safety has made hospital infection prevention and control strategies a subject of increasing focus from healthcare personnel, patients and families, accrediting organizations, and government. This review highlights recent literature and new successes in the prevention of healthcare-associated infections in children. ⋯ A renewed interest in infection prevention by multiple stakeholders has energized our field and contributed to impressive successes in reducing rates of healthcare-associated infections. Nevertheless, important knowledge gaps remain and an emphasis on funding of high-quality, rigorous studies to answer unresolved questions will be critical to our efforts to further prevent infections for hospitalized children.