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Enterococcal bacteremia without endocarditis
Abstract:
Seventy-four cases of enterococcal bacteremia without endocarditis were reviewed retrospectively for the years 1963 through 1977. Thirty-nine patients had hospital-acquired infection, 27 had serious underlying disease, and 18 had polymicrobial bacteremia. The organisms isolated from the primary source of infection were similar in patients with pure enterococcal or polymicrobial bacteremia. The most common source was the urinary tract, followed by the abdomen, infected burns, and soft-tissue infections other than burns. The overall mortality was 34%, with significantly higher mortality in immunocompromised patients, including those with infected burn wounds. Mortality also was higher in patients with hospital-acquired infection. Eleven of the 25 deaths were considered directly related to enterococcal septicemia.
Insights
Enterococcal bacteremia, a bloodstream infection, occurred in 74 patients without endocarditis. Mortality was 34%, particularly high in hospital-acquired infections and immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Enterococcal bacteremia is a significant bloodstream infection.
- Endocarditis is a known complication, but cases without it require separate analysis.
- Understanding sources and outcomes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively review cases of enterococcal bacteremia without endocarditis.
- To identify common sources of infection and associated patient factors.
- To determine the overall mortality and factors influencing it.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 74 patients with enterococcal bacteremia.
- Data collected included patient demographics, underlying conditions, infection source, and outcomes.
- Analysis of mortality rates and correlation with specific patient characteristics.
Main Results:
- The urinary tract was the most common source of infection.
- Hospital-acquired infections and serious underlying diseases were prevalent.
- Overall mortality was 34%, with increased risk in immunocompromised patients and those with hospital-acquired infections.
Conclusions:
- Enterococcal bacteremia without endocarditis carries a substantial mortality risk.
- Prompt identification of infection sources and management of underlying conditions are vital.
- Further research into specific treatment strategies may improve outcomes.