Analysis of current guidelines for intra-abdominal infections

Intra-abdominal infections (IAIs) are a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality. These infections can be caused by a wide variety of microorganisms, including both aerobes and anaerobes, and are often polymicrobial. Several studies have reported that mortality depends on initiating early appropriate antimicrobial therapy. The inappropriate choice of initial antibiotic therapy results in a longer hospital stay and higher costs of hospitalization compared with appropriate initial antibiotic therapy. The aim of this review is to summarize the recommendations of several guidelines on the management of IAIs.