Infection
-
We assessed factors associated with mortality and complicated course in the case of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) acquired in the intensive care unit (ICU). ⋯ Risk factors of poor outcome in patients with CDI acquired in the ICU are different from those in the general population suffering from CDI. The implementation of treatment algorithms taking into account these factors may reduce complication rates in this specific population.
-
Comparative Study
Comparison of colistin and colistin/sulbactam for the treatment of multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii ventilator-associated pneumonia.
To compare clinical and microbiological efficacy of colistin and colistin/sulbactam for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii VAP in intensive care units (ICUs). ⋯ The colistin/sulbactam combination therapy is promising in severe MDR A. baumannii VAP. Although, the difference was not statistically significant, clinical cure rates or bacteriological clearance rates were better in the combination group than colistin monotherapy.
-
Little information is available on antibiotic prescription management in German hospitals. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence and components of antibiotic stewardship measures in German intensive care units (ICUs). ⋯ While the majority of ICUs report to have some antibiotic policies established, the contents and composition of these policies vary. Organizational-level control strategies to improve antibiotic management are common in Germany. However, strategies widely considered effective, such as the systematic cross-institutional surveillance of antimicrobial use and bacterial resistance in a standardized manner or the employment of infectious disease specialists, are scarce. This study provides a benchmark for future antibiotic stewardship programs.
-
Case Reports
Surveillance of the first case of human avian influenza A (H7N9) virus in Beijing, China.
Human infections with avian influenza A (H7N9) virus manifested in China in March 2013. The first case infected with H7N9 virus in Beijing involved a family member of a chicken dealer and was reported in April 2013. The clinical and epidemiological characteristics of this case and her parents were examined to illustrate some key traits regarding this novel H7N9 virus. ⋯ Early diagnosis and early initiation of the treatment of confirmed infections is the most effective strategy for managing H7N9 virus infection. Human beings exposed to H7N9 virus may develop asymptomatic infection.