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Clinical and bacteriological evaluation of amikacin in severe gram-negative infections
Abstract:
Amikacin was administered to 51 patients with serious Gram-negative infections. A favorable clinical outcome was observed in 32 patients (62 per cent). No major untoward effects were noted. The severity of the underlying disease and the site of the infection were important for the outcome. Urinary tract infections responded in 21 (78 per cent) out of 27 patients, but bronchopulmonary infections responded in only 3 out of 10 patients (30 per cent). The degree of antibacterial activity of the serum of the patients receiving amikacin was found to be related to the outcome. An activity greater than or equal to 1/8 was associated with 78 per cent of favorable responses and was found more often in patients receiving 1500 mg daily.
Insights
Amikacin effectively treated serious Gram-negative infections in 62% of patients, with outcomes influenced by disease severity and infection site. Serum antibacterial activity correlated with favorable responses.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Serious Gram-negative infections pose significant treatment challenges.
- Amikacin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used for severe bacterial infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of amikacin in patients with serious Gram-negative infections.
- To identify factors influencing treatment outcomes and the relationship between serum antibacterial activity and clinical response.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 51 patients with serious Gram-negative infections treated with amikacin.
- Assessment of clinical outcomes, adverse effects, and correlation with disease severity, infection site, and serum amikacin activity.
- Dosage of 1500 mg daily was frequently associated with higher serum activity.
Main Results:
- A favorable clinical outcome was observed in 32 patients (62%).
- Urinary tract infections showed a high response rate (78%), while bronchopulmonary infections had a lower response rate (30%).
- Serum antibacterial activity ≥ 1/8 was linked to 78% of favorable responses and was more common with a daily dose of 1500 mg.
Conclusions:
- Amikacin demonstrates significant efficacy in treating serious Gram-negative infections, particularly urinary tract infections.
- Disease severity and infection site are critical determinants of treatment success.
- Monitoring serum antibacterial activity can help predict treatment outcomes and optimize amikacin dosing.