Mucosal barrier injury-associated bloodstream infections in pediatric oncology patients

Hana Hakim1, Amy L Billett2, Jiahui Xu3

  • 1Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.

Insights

Mucosal barrier injury bloodstream infections (MBI-LCBI) are a significant concern in pediatric hematology oncology transplant (PHO) patients. This study highlights the substantial burden of MBI-LCBI across both inpatient and ambulatory settings, informing prevention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatric Hematology Oncology
  • Healthcare Epidemiology

Background:

  • Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and mucosal barrier injury laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infections (MBI-LCBI) are critical in pediatric hematology oncology transplant (PHO) patients.
  • Previous research primarily focused on inpatient MBI-LCBI, necessitating broader characterization across care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize MBI-LCBI in pediatric hematology oncology transplant (PHO) patients across both inpatient and ambulatory settings.
  • To provide data for improved surveillance and prevention strategies for MBI-LCBI in PHO patients.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of prospectively collected data on CLABSI and MBI-LCBI from a US PHO multicenter quality improvement network (August 2013-December 2015).
  • Application of CDC National Healthcare Safety Network definitions, adapted for ambulatory events.

Main Results:

  • 35 PHO centers reported 401 ambulatory and 416 inpatient MBI-LCBI events.
  • Ambulatory MBI-LCBI rate was 0.085/1000 line days; inpatient rate was 1.01/1000 line days.
  • Neutropenia was present in ≥90% of MBI-LCBI events; common pathogens included Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and viridans streptococci.

Conclusions:

  • The burden of MBI-LCBI is substantial across the continuum of care for PHO patients.
  • Findings underscore the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding MBI-LCBI in PHO patients.
  • Data can aid in benchmarking and informing prevention and treatment strategies for MBI-LCBI.
Abstract