Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 23, 2026

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
From Expert Protocols to Standardized Management of Infectious Diseases
Jean-Christophe Lagier1,2, Camille Aubry2, Marion Delord2
1Aix Marseille Université, CNRS 7278, IRD 198, INSERM 1095, URMITE.
Abstract:
We report here 4 examples of management of infectious diseases (IDs) at the University Hospital Institute Méditerranée Infection in Marseille, France, to illustrate the value of expert protocols feeding standardized management of IDs. First, we describe our experience on Q fever and Tropheryma whipplei infection management based on in vitro data and clinical outcome. Second, we describe our management-based approach for the treatment of infective endocarditis, leading to a strong reduction of mortality rate. Third, we report our use of fecal microbiota transplantation to face severe Clostridium difficile infections and to perform decolonization of patients colonized by emerging highly resistant bacteria. Finally, we present the standardized management of the main acute infections in patients admitted in the emergency department, promoting antibiotics by oral route, checking compliance with the protocol, and avoiding the unnecessary use of intravenous and urinary tract catheters. Overall, the standardization of the management is the keystone to reduce both mortality and morbidity related to IDs.
Insights
Standardized management protocols for infectious diseases (IDs) significantly reduce patient mortality and morbidity. Expert-driven guidelines improve outcomes for Q fever, endocarditis, and C. difficile infections, enhancing patient care.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Management
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Infectious diseases (IDs) pose significant challenges in healthcare settings.
- Standardized management protocols are crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
- Expert-driven protocols can optimize the care of complex infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To illustrate the value of expert protocols in the standardized management of infectious diseases.
- To present case examples demonstrating the impact of standardized protocols on patient outcomes.
- To highlight strategies for reducing mortality and morbidity associated with various infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of four case examples of infectious disease management at a university hospital.
- Application of in vitro data and clinical outcomes for Q fever and Tropheryma whipplei infections.
- Implementation of a management-based approach for infective endocarditis.
- Utilization of fecal microbiota transplantation for Clostridium difficile infections and decolonization.
- Standardized management of acute infections in emergency departments, emphasizing oral antibiotics and catheter avoidance.
Main Results:
- Successful management of Q fever and Tropheryma whipplei infections based on expert protocols.
- Significant reduction in mortality rate for infective endocarditis through a standardized approach.
- Effective use of fecal microbiota transplantation for severe C. difficile infections and decolonization of highly resistant bacteria.
- Improved outcomes in emergency department acute infections with adherence to standardized protocols, including oral antibiotic use and reduced catheterization.
Conclusions:
- Standardization of infectious disease management is key to reducing mortality and morbidity.
- Expert-driven protocols provide a framework for effective and consistent patient care.
- Optimized management strategies, including targeted therapies and judicious use of interventions, lead to better clinical outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Standard Precaution
Hand hygiene is the most crucial means to prevent the transmission of disease. Employers are legally required to provide their workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure or contact with...
Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
Transmission-based Precautions I: Contact, Enteric, and Droplets
Contact Precautions:
Contact precautions are the measures taken to prevent the transmission of infectious agents, especially epidemiologically important microorganisms such as MRSA or influenza, primarily transmitted through direct or indirect contact with an...
Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
Endocarditis III: Medical Management

