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Experience with polymicrobial sepsis in a regional burn unit
Abstract:
A 2-year review of 795 patients admitted to a regional burn unit was carried out to determine the incidence of polymicrobial sepsis. Of 38 bacteraemic patients, 21 (55 per cent) had polymicrobial sepsis in 1990. Of 38 cases in 1991, 12 patients (31.6 per cent) had polymicrobic infections. Of 36 deaths in 1990, 13 were attributed to sepsis, 12 of 29 (31.6 per cent) in 1991. Of the patients who died in 1990, eight (21 per cent) were polymicrobic septic deaths and six (15.8 per cent) in 1991. The problem has been reported in immunocompromised patients, especially those with terminal malignancies, but has rarely been noted in burn patients. Recognition of the seriousness of the problem and the aggressive antibiotic therapy appropriate to the organisms in question is advised.
Insights
Polymicrobial sepsis, infections involving multiple bacteria, occurred in over half of bacteremic burn patients in 1990, decreasing in 1991. This serious condition contributed to significant mortality in burn patients, necessitating aggressive antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
- Burn Management
Background:
- Polymicrobial sepsis is a serious concern, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Its incidence and impact in burn patients have been less frequently documented.
- Burn patients are susceptible to infections due to compromised skin integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of polymicrobial sepsis in patients admitted to a regional burn unit.
- To analyze the mortality rates associated with sepsis in burn patients.
- To highlight the significance of polymicrobial infections in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 795 patients admitted to a regional burn unit over a 2-year period.
- Analysis of bacteremic patients to identify polymicrobial sepsis cases.
- Examination of mortality data and causes of death, specifically sepsis-related fatalities.
Main Results:
- In 1990, 55% of bacteremic patients (21 out of 38) had polymicrobial sepsis.
- In 1991, the incidence decreased to 31.6% (12 out of 38) of bacteremic patients.
- Polymicrobial sepsis contributed to 21% of deaths in 1990 and 15.8% in 1991.
Conclusions:
- Polymicrobial sepsis is a significant and potentially fatal complication in burn patients.
- The incidence of polymicrobial sepsis in burn patients warrants attention and further investigation.
- Prompt recognition and aggressive, targeted antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing polymicrobial sepsis in burn care.