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Infections caused by central venous catheters in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
J G Prichard1, M J Nelson, L Burns
1Institute for Immunological Disorders, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston.
Abstract:
We assessed infectious complications of long-term percutaneous central venous catheterization in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). We evaluated 98 consecutive patients, accounting for 6,298 catheter days. Catheter-associated bacteremia occurred in 3% of patients, a rate of 0.128%/patient-catheter day. Only bacterial pathogens--Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Staphylococcus species--were isolated. Five patients had infection at the catheter exit site. The length of time catheters were indwelling was not significantly different in patients with and those without infections. Percutaneous, multiple-use central venous catheters are safe and well accepted by patients with AIDS.
Insights
Long-term central venous catheters in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) showed a low rate of infectious complications. These catheters are safe and well-accepted, with bacterial pathogens being the primary concern.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
- Immunology
Background:
- Long-term central venous catheterization is common in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- Assessing infectious complications is crucial for patient management and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence and types of infectious complications associated with long-term percutaneous central venous catheter use in AIDS patients.
- To determine the safety and patient acceptance of these devices.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 98 consecutive patients with AIDS undergoing long-term percutaneous central venous catheterization.
- Data collected included catheter dwell time, incidence of bacteremia, and exit site infections.
- Totaling 6,298 catheter days for analysis.
Main Results:
- Catheter-associated bacteremia occurred in 3% of patients (0.128% per patient-catheter day).
- Predominant pathogens included Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Staphylococcus species.
- Five patients experienced catheter exit site infections; dwell time was not a significant factor.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous, multiple-use central venous catheters demonstrate a favorable safety profile in patients with AIDS.
- Infectious complications are infrequent, with bacterial pathogens being the main concern.
- These catheters are well-tolerated and suitable for long-term use in this population.