[Prevention and treatment of infections in phlebology and lymphology]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Vascular Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are common in patients with venous and lymphatic diseases, impacting quality of life and healthcare costs.
• Diagnosing and managing these infections is challenging due to inflammatory conditions mimicking infection, leading to antimicrobial misuse and resistance.
• Existing guidelines may not adequately address local needs in resource-limited regions like Latin America.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide recommendations for the prevention and effective treatment of infections associated with venous and lymphatic pathologies in adults.
• To promote a multidisciplinary approach integrating non-pharmacological treatments and rational antimicrobial use.
• To incorporate patient perspectives for a comprehensive and contextualized approach, particularly for Latin America.

Main Methods:

• Development of recommendations through collaboration with the Argentine Society of Infectology and national/regional Phlebology and Lymphology Societies.
• Integration of evidence-based practices for infection prevention and management.
• Inclusion of patient society perspectives to ensure relevance and applicability.

Main Results:

• The document presents a comprehensive set of recommendations tailored for adult patients with venous and lymphatic diseases.
• Emphasis on a multidisciplinary strategy for managing SSTIs in this population.
• Guidelines are contextualized for Latin America, addressing specific regional needs and resource limitations.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of SSTIs in venous and lymphatic diseases necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.
• Rational antimicrobial use and non-pharmacological interventions are crucial for controlling infections and antimicrobial resistance.
• These recommendations offer a valuable framework for healthcare providers in Latin America and similar settings.