Risk Factors Associated with Vancomycin-ResistantEnterococcusin Intensive Care Unit Settings in Saudi Arabia

Mahmoud Shorman,Jaffar A Al-Tawfiq

doi:10.1155/2013/369674

Abstract

Background. Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are significant nosocomial pathogens worldwide. There is one report about the epidemiology of VRE in Saudi Arabia. Objective. To determine the risk factors associated with VRE infection or colonization in intensive care unit (ICU) settings. Design. This is a descriptive, epidemiologic hospital-based case-control study of patients with VRE from February 2006 to March 2010 in ICU in a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. Methods. Data were collected from hospital records of patients with VRE. The main outcome measure was the adjusted odds ratio estimates of potential risk factors for VRE. Results. Factors associated with VRE included ICU admission for multiorgan failure, chronic renal failure, prior use of antimicrobial agents in the past three months and before ICU admission, gastrointestinal oral contrast procedure, and hemodialysis. Being located in a high risk room (roommate of patients colonized or infected with VRE) was found to be protective. Conclusions. Factors associated with VRE acquisition are often complex and may be confounded by local variables.

Highlights

Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) is an important pathogen among hospitalized patients
Between February 2006 and March 2010, a total of 30 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) were identified with Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) colonization or infection
Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus is becoming the causative agent in an increasing number of health-careassociated infections in the last decade especially in the United States [14]

Summary

Introduction

Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) is an important pathogen among hospitalized patients. Significant morbidity, mortality, and increased hospital costs have been associated with infections due to VRE [1]. Differentiating among the factors associated with nosocomial spread of VRE or amplification of previously undetectable colonization is difficult in clinical settings [5]. Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are significant nosocomial pathogens worldwide. To determine the risk factors associated with VRE infection or colonization in intensive care unit (ICU) settings. This is a descriptive, epidemiologic hospital-based case-control study of patients with VRE from February 2006 to March 2010 in ICU in a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. Being located in a high risk room (roommate of patients colonized or infected with VRE) was found to be protective. Factors associated with VRE acquisition are often complex and may be confounded by local variables

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Conclusion