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Published on: May 6, 2013
Bacterial contamination of enteral nutrient solutions: intestinal colonization and sepsis in mice after ingestion
Abstract:
Contaminated enteral nutrient solution (ENS) was used to assess the risks of intestinal colonization and invasive sepsis using normal mice. Dilute Osmolite containing 10(6) Group B Streptococci/ml given for 2 to 10 consecutive days resulted in the detection of organisms by rectal washing sampling and in the recovery of 10(3) to 10(4) organisms from the cecum, large intestine, and rectum. Only 10(1) organisms survived in the small intestine. Colonization, or the persistence of organisms for 10 days after exposure, was produced after 2 days of ingestion in 44% of animals and in 100% after exposure for 5 days. There were 39 septic deaths. During the 7-day ingestion interval 15 died and 24 died within 10 days after exposure. The risk of sepsis was highest for young mice. Ways to minimize bacterial contamination of ENS intended for administration to patients are discussed.
Insights
Contaminated enteral nutrient solution (ENS) can cause intestinal colonization and sepsis in mice. Group B Streptococci in ENS led to significant colonization and septic deaths, particularly in young mice.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Enteral nutrient solutions (ENS) are crucial for patients unable to consume food orally.
- Bacterial contamination of ENS poses a significant risk for patient health.
- Understanding the pathogenesis of ENS-associated infections is vital for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the risk of intestinal colonization and invasive sepsis from contaminated enteral nutrient solution (ENS).
- To determine the impact of Group B Streptococci (GBS) contamination in ENS on normal mice.
- To identify factors influencing sepsis risk, such as duration of exposure and age.
Main Methods:
- Normal mice were administered dilute Osmolite containing 10(6) Group B Streptococci/ml for 2 to 10 consecutive days.
- Intestinal colonization was assessed via rectal washing and organ recovery (cecum, large intestine, rectum, small intestine).
- Septic deaths were recorded, and the risk of sepsis was correlated with age and exposure duration.
Main Results:
- Ingestion of contaminated ENS led to detectable GBS in rectal washes and significant recovery from the lower gastrointestinal tract.
- Colonization persisted for at least 10 days in a high percentage of mice after 5 days of exposure.
- Thirty-nine septic deaths occurred, with a higher risk observed in younger mice.
Conclusions:
- Contaminated ENS can lead to intestinal colonization and invasive sepsis in a susceptible host model.
- The duration of exposure to contaminated ENS directly correlates with the extent of colonization and risk of sepsis.
- Minimizing bacterial contamination of ENS is critical for preventing serious patient outcomes.
