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Viridans streptococcal bacteraemia: a clinical survey
S Sriskandan1, A Soto, T J Evans
1Department of Infectious Diseases and Bacteriology, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
Summary
Viridans streptococcal bacteraemia (VSB) is increasingly found in hospitalized, immunocompromised patients, not just endocarditis cases. This study highlights VSB
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- Viridans streptococci (VS) are increasingly recognized as significant pathogens.
- Their role extends beyond traditional infections like endocarditis.
- Hospitalized and immunocompromised populations represent emerging risk groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze the occurrence and clinical significance of viridans streptococcal bacteraemia (VSB).
- To identify specific patient populations and clinical settings associated with VSB.
- To assess the mortality rate attributed to VSB.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient data over a 30-month period.
- Identification of VSB cases within a London postgraduate teaching hospital.
- Assessment of clinical significance using clinical and laboratory information.
Main Results:
- 39 cases of VSB were identified.
- Endocarditis represented only 13% of VSB cases.
- Higher VSB incidence observed in haematology (21%) and bone-marrow transplant (15%) units.
- VSB occurred in patients with solid epithelial malignancies and infants < 12 months.
- Mortality associated with VSB was 7%.
Conclusions:
- Viridans streptococci are emerging pathogens in novel clinical settings.
- Hospitalized, immunocompromised patients are particularly vulnerable to VSB.
- VSB requires consideration in diverse patient groups beyond endocarditis.