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[Infections caused by intravascular catheters].
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|January 11, 1985
Summary
Microbiological investigations revealed that 430 of 1540 dialysis catheters and shunts were infected, primarily by Gram-positive cocci like Staphylococcus epidermidis. Proper site care and sterile handling can significantly reduce catheter-related infections.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Dialysis catheters and shunts are crucial for renal replacement therapy.
- Catheter-related infections pose a significant risk to patients undergoing dialysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the microbiological profile of infections associated with venous catheters and shunts used for dialysis.
- To determine the common pathogens and their prevalence in these devices.
Main Methods:
- Microbiological analysis of 1540 venous catheters and shunts.
- Identification and quantification of isolated microorganisms.
- Correlation of pathogen types with device type (catheter vs. shunt) and clinical outcomes (septicemia).
Main Results:
- Positive cultures were found in 430 (28%) of the devices.
- Gram-positive cocci, particularly Staphylococcus epidermidis (228 isolates) and Staphylococcus aureus (94 isolates), were the predominant pathogens.
- Staphylococcus aureus was more frequently isolated from Scribner shunts and Brescia fistulas (31%) compared to venous catheters (18%).
- Venous catheters were a more common source of septicemia (16 cases) than chronic dialysis shunts (2 cases).
Conclusions:
- Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus are the leading causes of infection in dialysis vascular access devices.
- Venous catheters are associated with a higher risk of septicemia compared to chronic dialysis shunts.
- Implementing meticulous site care, sterile techniques, and minimizing indwelling time are essential for reducing infection rates.