Minerva anestesiologica
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Fungal infections including Candida peritonitis (CP) are being observed with increasing frequency in the ICU. We summarize current knowledge on epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic tests and treatment options in the previously immunocompetent patient suffering from CP. ⋯ Besides skilled surgical management, the decision for empirical antifungal treatment in any patient with suspected CP has to be based on the exact knowledge regarding origin, type of peritonitis, severity of disease, knowledge of patient specific risk factors and previous exposure to antibiotics or azole antifungals.
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Minerva anestesiologica · Apr 2014
Observational StudyAerophagia increases the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia in critically-ill patients.
Gastric residual volume in ventilated critically ill may complicate gut function. Over the years studies suggested to tolerate progressively higher residuals. The relationship between such volumes and the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is still under debate. No reports deal with the relevant anecdotal finding of air in the stomach. Aim of the present study is to test the role of air in the development of VAPs. ⋯ High volumes of air in the stomach significantly increased the risk of developing VAP, while gastric residual volumes were not associated with the incidence of pneumonia.
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Minerva anestesiologica · Apr 2014
Observational StudyHyponatremia at the Emergency Department: a case-control study.
Hyponatremia (HNA) is a common electrolyte disturbance associated with morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to assess incidence and prognosis value of HNA in the Emergency Department (ED). ⋯ HNA was present in 2.4% of patients with a blood analysis and was associated independently with solid tumors and hospital death.
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Minerva anestesiologica · Apr 2014
Pneumonia in inmunocompetent patients: combination antibiotic therapy.
Pneumonia's burden is still important worldwide not only because of its high incidence and mortality, but also for the elevated costs related to it. Despite the concerted efforts to reduce the incidence of sepsis-related complications, they continue to represent a major human and economic burden. ⋯ The aim of this manuscript was to discuss recent literature regarding the management of severe pneumonia, both community-acquired and hospital-acquired/ventilator-associated, in critically ill patients. Use of combination therapy is warranted in severe infections with shock; considerations should be made on the importance of optimal antibiotic administration and adverse reactions, thus providing guidance for a rational use of antibiotics.