I.v. access options for AIDS patients with cytomegalovirus disease

In view of changes over the past 2 years in the intravenous (i.v.) management of patients with AIDS and cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease, a small study was carried out at the Kobler Clinic, an HIV treatment centre in London, to examine optimal i.v. access for CMV induction treatment. Thirty lines were analysed over a period of 4 months: 18 were peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and 12 were midline catheters. Each line was monitored and evaluated for reason for choice of line, insertion data, line survival, patient self-administration, patient comfort scores, infection rate, and other difficulties encountered during treatment induction. The study results indicated noticeable differences between PICC and midline catheter performances, although a change in treatment protocol during the study influenced the choice of line used. There were also marked differences from other studies, carried out predominantly in non-HIV patients, when infection rate, dwell time of lines and thrombus formation were compared. Significant changes in practice have been implemented and further clinical studies/research identified.