Duration Of Intravenous Antibiotic Therapy Research Articles

A 20-Year Study of Intracranial Pyogenic Complications of Sinusitis in Children.

Intracranial pyogenic complications of sinusitis in children can lead to serious sequelae. We characterize the clinical, epidemiologic and microbiologic characteristics of children with such complications over a 20-year period. Single-center retrospective chart review. Cases were identified based on International Classification of Diseases diagnostic codes (ICD)-9 and ICD-10 depending on the year and by reviewing all intracranial microbiologic samples. A total of 104 cases of complicated sinusitis were included after review of 1591 charts. Median age was 12 (IQR 9-14); 72 were male (69%). The most frequent complications were epidural empyema (n = 50, 48%), subdural empyema (n = 46, 44%) and Pott's puffy tumor (n = 27, 26%). 52% (n = 54) underwent neurosurgery and 46% (n = 48) underwent otolaryngologic surgery. The predominant pathogen isolated from sterile site specimens was Streptococcus anginosus (n = 40, 63%), but polymicrobial growth was common (n = 24; 38%). The median duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy was 51 days (IQR 42-80). Persistent neurologic sequelae (or death, n = 1) were found in 24% (n = 25) and were associated with the presence of cerebritis and extensive disease on neuroimaging ( P = 0.02 and P = 0.04, respectively). Intracranial complications of sinusitis continue to cause significant morbidity in children. Polymicrobial infections are common, which reinforces the need for broad-spectrum empiric antibiotic therapy and cautious adjustment of the antibiotic regimen based primarily on sterile site cultures. The association of neurologic sequelae with the presence of cerebritis and extensive intracranial involvement on neuroimaging suggest that delayed diagnosis may be a contributor to adverse outcome.

Microbiology and Antibiotic Resistance Profiles of Orbital Subperiosteal Abscesses: A Comparison of Pediatric, Adolescent, and Adult Populations.

The purpose of this study was to compare the microbiology and antibiotic resistance profiles of orbital subperiosteal abscesses (SPA) among 3 age cohorts. A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care center through a medical record search to identify patients with orbital cellulitis and SPA on imaging from January 1, 2000 to September 10, 2022. Patients were categorized into pediatric (<9 years old), adolescent (9-18 years old), and adult (>18 years old) cohorts. Primary outcomes included culture and antibiotic susceptibility results. Secondary outcomes included antibiotic therapy and surgical intervention. Of the 153 SPA patients included, 62 (40.5%) were in the pediatric cohort (4 months-8 years, mean 5.0 ± 2.7), 51 (33.3%) were adolescent (9-18 years, 12.7 ± 2.8), and 40 (26.1%) were adult (19-95, 51.8 ± 19.3). Viridians group Streptococci were the most frequent organisms isolated across groups. The anaerobic infection rate was higher in the adult compared to the pediatric group (23.0% vs, 4.0%, p = 0.017), while that of the adolescent did not differ significantly from either. Pediatric patients carried a lower rate of clindamycin resistance than adolescent and adult cohorts, who shared similar rates (0 vs. 27.0% and 28.0%, respectively; p = 0.016). There were progressive increases in duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy ( p < 0.195) and rate of surgical intervention ( p < 0.001) going from younger to older cohorts. Organisms isolated from orbital SPA from the past 2 decades demonstrate a predominance of Streptococcal species. Older age may be associated with anaerobic infection, clindamycin resistance, and more aggressive management. Adolescent infections are more similar to adult rather than pediatric counterparts but may require less aggressive management than the former.

264. A 20-year Study of Intracranial Pyogenic Complications of Sinusitis in Children

Abstract Background Intracranial pyogenic complications of sinusitis in children are relatively uncommon but can lead to serious sequelae. The objective of this study was to characterize the clinical, epidemiologic and microbiologic characteristics of children with such complications over a 20-year period (2000- 2019). Methods Single-center retrospective chart review. Cases were identified based on International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 diagnostic codes (intracranial abscess or granuloma, extradural and subdural abscess, Pott’s puffy tumor, acute or chronic sinusitis) and by reviewing all microbiological samples of intracranial pus, tissue or fluid. Results 108 cases of clinically and/or radiologically diagnosed sinusitis were included after review of 1591 charts. The majority were adolescents (median age 12, IQR 9-14); 72 were male (67%). The most common presenting symptoms were fever (84%), headache (87%) and symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection (57%). Median symptom duration was 10 days (IQR 5-21) and 55 cases (51%) received oral antibiotics prior to admission. The most frequent complications were epidural empyema (n=50, 46%), subdural empyema (n=46, 43%) and Pott’s puffy tumor (n= 31, 29%). 50% (n=54) underwent neurosurgery, of which 20% (n=11) required multiple craniectomies. 38% (n=41) underwent otolaryngological surgery. Microbiological data from sterile specimens demonstrated single organisms in 36 cases (59%) and polymicrobial growth in 25 cases (41%). The most frequently identified pathogens were Streptococcus anginosus (n=40, 66%) followed by Fusobacterium species (n=10, 16%) and Prevotella species (n=10,16%). Most cases were treated with combination antibiotic therapy (n=68, 63%) and 14% (n=15) with a carbapenem. The median duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy was 51 days (IQR 42-80). One child died and 23% (n=25) suffered neurological sequelae (median follow-up 344 days). 48 cases (44%) occurred between 2014-2019. Conclusion Intracranial complications of sinusitis continue to cause significant morbidity in children. The predominant causative pathogen was Streptococcus anginosus. Polymicrobial infections are common, confirming the need for prolonged broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment. Disclosures Sharon Cushing, MD, MSc, FRCSC, Cochlear Corporation (Research Grant or Support)Cochlear Corporation (Speaker’s Bureau)Interacoustics (Speaker’s Bureau)Plural publishing (Other Financial or Material Support, Royalties: editor: manual of pediatric balance disorders)

The Tension Between Pragmatism and Rigor in Choosing Wisely.

The Tension Between Pragmatism and Rigor in Choosing Wisely.

Effectiveness of early switching from intravenous to oral antibiotic therapy in Staphylococcus aureus prosthetic bone and joint or orthopedic metalware-associated infections

BackgroundThe optimal duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy in Staphylococcus aureus prosthetic bone and joint infection has not been established. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of early and late intravenous-to-oral antibiotic switch on treatment failure.Patients and methodsWe retrospectively analyzed all adult cases of S. aureus prosthetic bone and joint or orthopedic metalware-associated infection between January 2008 and December 2015 in a French university hospital. The primary outcome was treatment failure defined as the recurrence of S. aureus prosthetic bone and joint or orthopedic metalware-associated infection at any time during or after the first line of medical and surgical treatment within 2 years of follow-up. A Cox model was created to assess risk factors for treatment failure.ResultsAmong the 140 patients included, mean age was 60.4 years (SD 20.2), and 66% were male (n = 92). Most infections were due to methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (n = 113, 81%). The mean duration of intravenous antibiotic treatment was 4.1 days (SD 4.6). The majority of patients (119, 85%) had ≤5 days of intravenous therapy. Twelve patients (8.5%) experienced treatment failure. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections (HR 11.1; 95% CI 1.5–111.1; p = 0.02), obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2) (HR 6.9; 95% CI1.4–34.4, p = 0.02) and non-conventional empiric antibiotic therapy (HR 7.1; 95% CI 1.8–25.2; p = 0.005) were significantly associated with treatment failure, whereas duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy (≤ 5 or > 5 days) was not.ConclusionThere was a low treatment failure rate in patients with S. aureus prosthetic bone and joint or orthopedic metalware-associated infection with early oral switch from intravenous to oral antibiotic therapy.

Neonatal osteomyelitis: an Italian multicentre report of 22 cases and comparison with the inherent literature.

The primary objective of this study is to report and compare our data with the most relevant literature of the past decade about neonatal osteomyelitis. We retrospectively review the data of 22 subjects aged 35 days or less who were admitted to three different sites in Italy with a radiological diagnosis of osteomyelitis. The inherent literature was searched and reviewed: five studies were considered for comparison with our data. All the neonates, except three (two pre-term and one post-term), were born at term. The male to female ratio was 1.75 (14 males and 8 females). The mean age at presentation was 19.5 days. The most common presenting signs of the infection were local swelling and reduced mobility of the affected segment. The most common sites of infection were the femur, humerus, and tibia. The mean duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy was 29.5 days. In most neonates the diagnosis was prompt and the antibiotic treatment immediate. A low rate of sequelae was reported. All infants survived through follow up. The data from the inherent literature showed a wide variability, probably owing to the setting and the historical period of the different studies. Neonatal osteomyelitis is an alarming yet poorly understood disease. Nonetheless, our report suggests that a quick diagnosis and treatment can be easily achieved, with good outcome on the remarkably plastic structure of neonatal bones.

723. Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Treatment Considerations for Pyogenic Liver Abscess (PLA) in the Calgary Health Zone (CHZ) Revisited: A Population-Based Study

BackgroundPLA is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. However, its epidemiology and outcomes have not been recently evaluated in the CHZ. Understanding current trends will help guide management.MethodsIn this population-based study, we evaluated epidemiology, risk factors, and treatment of patients with PLA in the CHZ. CHZ residents aged ≥ 20 years diagnosed with PLA in 2015-2017 were included. Charts were reviewed for demographics and clinical outcomes. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with 30-day mortality. Findings were compared to a previous assessment of PLA in the CHZ from 1999-2003 (Kaplan et al., 2004).ResultsA total of 136 patients with PLA were identified, representing an annual incidence rate of 3.7 cases per 100,000 population. Compared to 1999-2003, incidence of PLA was increased (2.3 per 100,000; p< 0.01) but mortality was similar (1999-2003: 0.22 per 100,000 vs. 2015-2017: 0.26 per 100,000; p=0.6). The most common culprit organisms were Streptococcus anginosus group (40%), Klebsiella species (25%), Escherichia coli (18%), and obligate anaerobes (16%). Pathogen prevalence was similar to the prior cohort. Compared to 1999-2003, antibiotic resistant organisms were more frequent (8% vs 1%, p=0.04). In our cohort, liver aspirations were less frequent (p=0.02) but aspirate culture was more often positive (p< 0.01). The median duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy was longer compared to previous (2015-2017: 23 days (IQR 9-38) vs. 1999-2003: 17 days (IQR 10-29); p=0.001). Similarly, the total duration of antibiotic therapy was longer (2015-2017: 42 days (IQR 25-65) vs. 1999-2003: 31 days (IQR 18-45); p< 0.001). Thirty-day mortality from admission was 7% and did not differ amongst cohorts. Risk factors are shown in Table-1.Table-1: Risk factors for 30-day mortality in PLA ConclusionIncidence of PLA in the CHZ is rising with more antimicrobial resistance. Diagnostic liver aspirations are less frequent. Antibiotic durations are longer with no reduction in mortality. Understanding changing trends is valuable in directing future care. Encouraging liver aspirations to obtain a microbiologic diagnosis, especially with increasing resistance, is crucial. Considering shorter antibiotic durations in light of stable mortality warrants further exploration.Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Stratégie antibiotique dans les pleurésies en pédiatrie : consensus par méthode DELPHI

The evolution of the microbial epidemiology of pleuropulmonary infections complicating community-acquired pneumonia has resulted in a change in empirical or targeted antibiotic therapy in children in the post Prevenar 13 era. The three main pathogens involved in pleural empyema in children are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and group A Streptococcus. A questionnaire according to the DELPHI method was sent to experts in the field (paediatric pulmonologists and infectious disease specialists) in France with the purpose of reaching a consensus on the conservative antibiotic treatment of pleural empyema in children. Two rounds were completed as part of this DELPHI process. Our work has shown that in the absence of clinical signs of severity, the prescription of an intravenous monotherapy is consensual but there is no agreement on the choice of drug to use. A consensus was also reached on treatment adjustment based on the results of blood cultures, the non-systematic use of a combination therapy, the need for continued oral therapy and the lack of impact of pleural drainage on infection control. On the other hand, after the second round of DELPHI, there was no consensus on the duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy and on the treatment of severe pleural empyema, especially when caused by Staphylococci. The result of this work highlights the needed for new French recommendations based on the evolution of microbial epidemiology in the post PCV13 era.

Duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy in people with cystic fibrosis.

Progressive lung damage from recurrent exacerbations is the major cause of mortality and morbidity in cystic fibrosis. Life expectancy of people with cystic fibrosis has increased dramatically in the last 40 years. One of the major reasons for this increase is the mounting use of antibiotics to treat chest exacerbations caused by bacterial infections. The optimal duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy is not clearly defined. Individuals usually receive intravenous antibiotics for 14 days, but treatment may range from 10 to 21 days. A shorter duration of antibiotic treatment risks inadequate clearance of infection which could lead to further lung damage. Prolonged courses of intravenous antibiotics are expensive and inconvenient. The risk of systemic side effects such as allergic reactions to antibiotics also increases with prolonged courses and the use of aminoglycosides requires frequent monitoring to minimise some of their side effects. However, some organisms which infect people with cystic fibrosis are known to be multi-resistant to antibiotics, and may require a longer course of treatment. This is an update of previously published reviews. To assess the optimal duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy for treating chest exacerbations in people with cystic fibrosis. We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register which comprises references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches, handsearches of relevant journals, abstract books and conference proceedings. Most recent search of the Group's Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register: 30 May 2019.We also searched online trials registries. Most recent search of the ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) portal: 06 January 2019. Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing different durations of intravenous antibiotic courses for acute respiratory exacerbations in people with CF, either with the same drugs at the same dosage, the same drugs at a different dosage or frequency or different antibiotics altogether, including studies with additional therapeutic agents. No eligible trials were identified for inclusion. A trial looking at the standardised treatment of pulmonary exacerbations is currently ongoing and will be included when the results are published. MAIN RESULTS: No eligible trials were included. There are no clear guidelines on the optimum duration of intravenous antibiotic treatment. Duration of treatment is currently based on unit policies and response to treatment. Shorter duration of treatment should improve quality of life and adherence, result in a reduced incidence of drug reactions and be less costly. However, the shorter duration may not be sufficient to clear a chest infection and may result in an early recurrence of an exacerbation. This systematic review identifies the need for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial comparing different durations of intravenous antibiotic treatment as it has important clinical and financial implications. The currently ongoing STOP2 trial is expected to provide some guidance on these questions when published.

Daily outpatient intravenous antibiotic therapy for the management of paediatric periorbital cellulitis, a retrospective case series.

To evaluate whether outpatient treatment of periorbital cellulitis with daily administration of intravenous antibiotics and physician evaluation is an effective and safe alternative to admission. A retrospective chart review study of paediatric patients treated on an outpatient basis for periorbital cellulitis at a tertiary children's hospital between 2013 and 2015 was performed. Children were assessed day by a paediatrician to monitor for resolution of symptoms or complications. The Montreal Children's hospital, a tertiary care centre. Children diagnosed with an uncomplicated periorbital cellulitis secondary to an acute sinusitis or upper respiratory tract infection. The number of days of intravenous antibiotics, complications or need for subsequent admission. Complications were defined as formation of an abscess or phlegmon confirmed on computerised tomography scan, worsening or recurrent persistent cellulitis, failure to improve on intravenous antibiotics, and intracranial complications. Sixty-six children with a diagnosis of uncomplicated periorbital cellulitis secondary to sinusitis who received intravenous antibiotics via medical day hospital and who fit the inclusion criteria were identified. The mean duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy was 4.1days. All children received ceftriaxone, with one patient also receiving cefuroxime. Two of 66 patients developed complications; one patient required admission for failure to improve/subperiosteal phlegmon and later underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery, and one patient developed an eyelid abscess that did not require admission. No patients developed severe neurological or visual deficits. Outpatient intravenous therapy with daily reassessment by a physician may be a safe alternative to admission in select cases of periorbital cellulitis without systemic signs of illness.

Twice daily cefazolin is effective for treatment of serious methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus infection in an outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy program.

Background:The use of cefazolin for infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus has been demonstrated to be effective, and associated with fewer adverse effects compared with anti-staphylocccal penicillins; however, use of cefazolin on outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) programs often requires the use of continuous infusions. We report the outcomes of patients with serious infections caused by methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) treated using twice daily cefazolin by a large tertiary hospital OPAT program. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, efficacy and outcomes after 90 days of follow up for patients with serious infections caused by MSSA treated with twice daily cefazolin by our OPAT program.Methods:A retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes of cases treated for a serious infection proven to be caused by MSSA treated with cefazolin monotherapy on the OPAT program at a tertiary hospital between January 2010 and July 2016 (6.5 years). Outcome measures included readmission rate, adverse drug reactions and clinical cure.Results:A total of 111 cases of serious MSSA infection were treated with cefazolin in the OPAT service during the study period, including 52 with peripheral or vertebral osteomyelitis and 13 with infective endocarditis; 56 patients had bacteraemia. Median duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy was 41 days, and the median proportion of intravenous therapy administered via OPAT was 69%. Two patients had recurrence of infection within 90 days, but were in the setting of retained prosthetic material. A total of 4% of patients experienced an adverse drug reaction. No cases of antibiotic failure were identified.Conclusions:The use of twice daily cefazolin for serious MSSA infection on an OPAT program is safe and effective. Further study is needed to assess for noninferiority to conventional treatment regimes.

2099. Catheter-related Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia and Septic Thrombosis: The Role of Anticoagulation and Duration of Intravenous Antibiotic Therapy

BackgroundCatheter-related septic thrombosis is suspected in patients with persistent Central Line-associated Blood Stream Infection (CLABSI) after 72 hours of appropriate antimicrobial therapy. There are limited data outlining the characteristics of the disease and the adequate duration of antimicrobials. In addition, the role of anticoagulation in the management of septic thrombosis remains unclear. We herein studied the clinical characteristics of staphylococcus aureus catheter-related septic thrombosis as well as the appropriate management and duration of treatment.MethodsWe conducted this retrospective study where we included patients with CLABSI due to Staphylococcus aureus who had a concomitant radiographic evidence of thrombosis at the level of catheter placement between the years 2005 and 2017. We collected data pertaining to patients’ medical history, clinical presentation, management, treatment and outcome within 3 months of bacteremia onset. Failure was defined as persistence of signs and symptoms at 72 hours, persistence bacteremia at 48–96 hours, relapse, complications or overall mortality.ResultsA total of 128 patients were included. The median age was 55 years. Total relapse/recurrence rate was 8% and all-cause mortality within 3 months was 16%. We found no significant difference in overall outcome between patients who had deep vs. superficial thrombosis. Patients with superficial thrombosis were found to have higher rate of pulmonary complications (25% vs. 6%; P = 0.01) compared with those with deep thrombosis. Patients who received less than 28 days of intravascular antibiotic therapy had higher all-cause mortality (31 vs. 5% P = 0.001). A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified two independent predictors of treatment failure: presence in the ICU at any point during their illness (odds ratio (OR) = 2.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08–6.99, P = 0.034) and not receiving anticoagulation (OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.11–0.54, P < 0.001).ConclusionIntravenous antimicrobial therapy for 28 days or longer carries a survival advantage over shorter duration of therapy and anticoagulation as an adjunctive treatment is an independent predictor of successful antimicrobial therapy.Disclosures I. Raad, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center: Shareholder, Licensing agreement or royalty. The Unversity of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center: Shareholder, Dr. Raad is a co-inventor of the Nitroglycerin-Citrate-Ethanol catheter lock solution technology which is owned by the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (UTMDACC) and has been licensed to Novel Anti-Infective Technologies LLC, in which UTMDACC and Licensing agreement or royalty.

1868. Successful Use of Telemedicine vs. On-site Infectious Diseases Consultation After Implementation of a System-Wide Antimicrobial Stewardship-Led Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia Care Bundle

BackgroundTelemedicine (TM) programs have been effectively implemented to deliver specialty care through virtual platforms to overcome geographic and resource constraints. Yet, few data exist to describe outcomes associated with TM-based management of patients with infectious diseases (ID). The purpose of this study was to compare adherence and other outcomes associated with TM and on-site (SOC) ID consultation (IDC) implementation strategies of an antimicrobial stewardship (ASP)-led S. aureus bacteremia (SAB) bundle.MethodsWe launched an SAB bundle at 10 acute care hospitals in the metro Charlotte, NC area in September 2016 for adult patients admitted with SAB and conducted a retrospective cohort study using data collected through 2017. Bundle components included (1) mandatory IDC, (2) appropriate antibiotics within 24 hours of S. aureus speciation, (3) repeat blood cultures at least every 72 hours until clearance, (4) obtainment of an echocardiogram, and (5) appropriate duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy based on SAB severity. ASP facilitated bundle initiation and assisted with compliance for all patients. The primary outcome was bundle adherence. Secondary outcomes included time to culture clearance and persistent SAB (i.e., positive blood cultures for >7 days). We used Wilcoxon rank-sum and chi-squared tests to compare outcomes.ResultsWe evaluated 872 patients with SAB during the study interval. After excluding 126 patients (prematurely discharged or died/transitioned to comfort care within 48 hours of S. aureus speciation), we analyzed 583 SOC and 163 TM group patients. There were no differences observed in overall SAB bundle adherence (SOC 86% vs. TM 88%, P = 0.52), or its individual components. No differences were found in time to culture clearance (median days: SOC = 2.9 vs. TM = 2.8, P = 0.96) and persistent SAB (SOC 11% vs. TM 11%, P = 0.77).ConclusionOur findings provide preliminary evidence to support TM-based strategies for IDC and ASP-led care bundles in resource-limited settings. Future analyses will compare mortality and hospital readmission outcomes. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

Catheter-Related Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia and Septic Thrombosis: The Role of Anticoagulation Therapy and Duration of Intravenous Antibiotic Therapy.

BackgroundCatheter-related septic thrombosis is suspected in patients with persistent central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) after 72 hours of appropriate antimicrobial therapy. The clinical diagnosis and management of this entity can be challenging as limited data are available. We retrospectively studied the clinical characteristics of patients with Staphylococcus aureus catheter-related septic thrombosis and the outcomes related to different management strategies.MethodsThis retrospective study included patients with CLABSI due to S. aureus who had concomitant radiographic evidence of catheter site thrombosis treated at our institution between the years 2005 and 2016. We collected data pertaining to patients’ medical history, clinical presentation, management, and outcome within 3 months of bacteremia onset.ResultsA total of 128 patients were included. We found no significant difference in overall outcome between patients who had deep vs superficial thrombosis. Patients with superficial thrombosis were found to have a higher rate of pulmonary complications (25% vs 6%; P = .01) compared with those with deep thrombosis. Patients who received less than 28 days of intravascular antibiotic therapy had higher all-cause mortality (31 vs 5%; P = .001). A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified 2 predictors of treatment failure: ICU admission during their illness (odds ratio [OR], 2.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08–6.99; P = .034) and not receiving anticoagulation therapy (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.11–0.54; P < .001).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that the presence of S. aureus CLABSI in the setting of catheter-related thrombosis may warrant prolonged intravascular antimicrobial therapy and administration of anticoagulation therapy in critically ill cancer patients.

Effects of Hospital Practice Patterns for Antibiotic Administration for Pneumonia on Hospital Lengths of Stay and Costs.

Hospital practice patterns vary for switching from intravenous to oral antibiotics for community-acquired pneumonia in pediatric patients, but it is unknown how these practice patterns affect hospital lengths of stay and costs. We conducted a retrospective study of 78673 pediatric patients (aged 3 months to 17 years) hospitalized for community-acquired pneumonia. Analyses were performed with data from the Pediatric Health Information System between 2007 and 2016, including discharge data from 48 freestanding children's hospitals. Patients who received antibiotics used to treat aspiration pneumonia and patients with a complex chronic condition were excluded to focus the study on uncomplicated cases. We modeled hospital practice patterns using hospital-level averages for the last day of service on which patients received antibiotics intravenously or first day of service on which patients received antibiotics orally. We found that a 1-day decrease in the hospital-level average last day of service on which a patient received antibiotics intravenously reduced the average length of stay by 0.58 day (95% confidence interval [CI], -0.69 to -0.47 day) and average cost by $1332 (95% CI, -$2363 to -$300). Results were similar when hospital practice patterns were modeled using the average first day of service on which a patient received antibiotics orally. These reductions in lengths of stay and costs were not associated with a difference in 30-day readmission rates. Given the reductions in lengths of stay and costs without sacrificing patient outcomes (readmissions), antimicrobial stewardship programs could target provider education on the duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy as a way to reduce resource utilization.

Antibiotic duration and changes in FEV1 are not associated with time until next exacerbation in adult cystic fibrosis: a single center study

BackgroundPulmonary exacerbations (PEx) are a major driver of morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis and reducing their frequency by extending the time between them is an important therapeutic goal. Although treatment decisions for exacerbations are often made based on dynamic changes in lung function, it is not clear if these changes truly impact future exacerbation risk. We analyzed adults with chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection to determine whether changes in FEV1 or duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy were associated with time to the next pulmonary exacerbation.MethodsMedical records and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry data were examined retrospectively to assess whether various patient-specific demographic factors and exacerbation-specific characteristics were associated with time until next exacerbation using the Andersen-Gill model in order to control for previous exacerbation frequency history.ResultsWe examined 59 patients with 221 CF pulmonary exacerbations over a 3-year study period. Mean age was 28.2 years and mean baseline FEV1 was 62% predicted. In our univariable model, fall in FEV1 at onset of exacerbation (median absolute −3% predicted change), recovery of FEV1 with treatment (median absolute +3% predicted change) and duration of IV antibiotics (median 16 days) were not associated with time to next exacerbation (median 93.5 days). Paradoxically each one-year increase in age was associated with a reduction in hazard of PEx by 3% (HR 0.97, P = 0.03, 95% CI 0.95–1.00).ConclusionsFEV1 drop and recovery associated with onset and treatment of a CF pulmonary exacerbation or duration of intravenous antibiotics were not predictive of time until next exacerbation. Our finding that older age may be associated with decreased hazard of exacerbation is likely due to a healthy survivor effect and should be controlled for in clinical trials of pulmonary exacerbations.

Outpatient management of pediatric acute mastoiditis

ObjectiveEvaluate the Montreal Children's Hospital experience with outpatient management of uncomplicated acute mastoiditis with parenteral antibiotic therapy alone and determine if it is a safe alternative to inpatient management. Subjects and methodA retrospective review of pediatric patients diagnosed with acute mastoiditis at a tertiary care pediatric hospital between 2013 and 2015 was performed. Patients with syndromes, immunodeficiency, cholesteatoma, chronic otitis media, cochlear implant in the affected ear, or incidental mastoid opacity were excluded. Results56 children age 6 months to 15 years old were treated for acute mastoiditis, including 29 hospitalizations and 27 outpatients. Patients managed as outpatient with daily intravenous ceftriaxone had a 93% cure rate. Eighteen hospitalized and one outpatient had complications of acute mastoiditis. Children with complications were more likely to be febrile (p = 0.045). Two patients failed outpatient therapy and were admitted; one for myringotomy and piperacillin-tazobactam treatment and one required a mastoidectomy. 4/27 children treated as outpatient underwent myringotomy and tube insertion, 2 underwent myringotomy and tube along with admission and 21 did not require tube insertion. The average total duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy was respectively 4.9 and 18.9 days in the outpatient and hospitalized group. The average duration of admission was 5.9 days. ConclusionOutpatient medical therapy of uncomplicated pediatric mastoiditis is safe, successful, and efficient. Benefits include efficient use of surgical beds, cost savings and patient and family convenience. Careful patient selection and close monitoring are keys for successful outcome.

Duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy for children with acute osteomyelitis or septic arthritis: a feasibility study.

There is little current consensus regarding the route or duration of antibiotic treatment for acute osteomyelitis (OM) and septic arthritis (SA) in children. To assess the overall feasibility and inform the design of a future randomised controlled trial (RCT) to reduce the duration of intravenous (i.v.) antibiotic use in paediatric OM and SA. (1) A prospective service evaluation (cohort study) to determine the current disease spectrum and UK clinical practice in paediatric OM/SA; (2) a prospective cohort substudy to assess the use of targeted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in diagnosing paediatric OM/SA; (3) a qualitative study to explore families' views and experiences of OM/SA; and (4) the development of a core outcome set via a systematic review of literature, Delphi clinician survey and stakeholder consensus meeting. Forty-four UK secondary and tertiary UK centres (service evaluation). Children with OM/SA. PCR diagnostics were compared with culture as standard of care. Semistructured interviews were used in the qualitative study. Data were obtained on 313 cases of OM/SA, of which 218 (61.2%) were defined as simple disease and 95 (26.7%) were defined as complex disease. The epidemiology of paediatric OM/SA in this study was consistent with existing European data. Children who met oral switch criteria less than 7 days from starting i.v. antibiotics were less likely to experience treatment failure (9.6%) than children who met oral switch criteria after 7 days of i.v. therapy (16.1% when switch was between 1 and 2 weeks; 18.2% when switch was > 2 weeks). In 24 out of 32 simple cases (75%) and 8 out of 12 complex cases (67%) in which the targeted PCR was used, a pathogen was detected. The qualitative study demonstrated the importance to parents and children of consideration of short- and long-term outcomes meaningful to families themselves. The consensus meeting agreed on the following outcomes: rehospitalisation or recurrence of symptoms while on oral antibiotics, recurrence of infection, disability at follow-up, symptom free at 1 year, limb shortening or deformity, chronic OM or arthritis, amputation or fasciotomy, death, need for paediatric intensive care, and line infection. Oral switch criteria were identified, including resolution of fever for ≥ 48 hours, tolerating oral food and medicines, and pain improvement. Data were collected in a 6-month period, which might not have been representative, and follow-up data for long-term complications are limited. A future RCT would need to recruit from all tertiary and most secondary UK hospitals. Clinicians have implemented early oral switch for selected patients with simple disease without formal clinical trial evidence of safety. However, the current criteria by which decisions to make the oral switch are made are not clearly established or evidence based. A RCT in simple OM and SA comparing shorter- or longer-course i.v. therapy is feasible in children randomised after oral switch criteria are met after 7 days of i.v. therapy, excluding children meeting oral switch criteria in the first week of i.v. therapy. This study design meets clinician preferences and addresses parental concerns not to randomise prior to oral switch criteria being met. The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.

Duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy in people with cystic fibrosis.

Respiratory disease is the major cause of mortality and morbidity in cystic fibrosis. Life expectancy of people with cystic fibrosis has increased dramatically in the last 40 years. One of the major reasons for this increase is the mounting use of antibiotics to treat chest exacerbations caused by bacterial infections. The optimal duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy is not clearly defined. Individuals usually receive intravenous antibiotics for 14 days, but treatment may range from 10 to 21 days. A shorter duration of antibiotic treatment risks inadequate clearance of infection which could lead to further lung damage. Prolonged courses of intravenous antibiotics are expensive and inconvenient and the incidence of allergic reactions to antibiotics also increases with prolonged courses. The use of aminoglycosides requires frequent monitoring to avoid some of their side effects. However, some organisms which infect people with cystic fibrosis are known to be multi-resistant to antibiotics, and may require a longer course of treatment. This is an update of previously published reviews. To assess the optimal duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy for treating chest exacerbations in people with cystic fibrosis. We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register which comprises references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches, handsearches of relevant journals, abstract books and conference proceedings.Most recent search of the Group's Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register: 05 May 2016. Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing different durations of intravenous antibiotic courses for acute respiratory exacerbations in people with CF, either with the same drugs at the same dosage, the same drugs at a different dosage or frequency or different antibiotics altogether, including studies with additional therapeutic agents. No eligible trials were identified. No eligible trials were identified. There are no clear guidelines on the optimum duration of intravenous antibiotic treatment. Duration of treatment is currently based on unit policies and response to treatment. Shorter duration of treatment should improve quality of life and compliance; result in a reduced incidence of drug reactions; and be less costly. However, this may not be sufficient to clear a chest infection and may result in an early recurrence of an exacerbation. This systematic review identifies the need for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial comparing different durations of intravenous antibiotic treatment as it has important clinical and financial implications.

Assessment of an intervention aimed at early discontinuation of intravenous antimicrobial therapy in a Brazilian University hospital

Many interventions demonstrate success in adapting the duration of intravenous antibiotic therapy, but few studies have been conducted in developing countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention in the induction of early discontinuation of intravenous antimicrobial therapy and/or its switch to oral therapy. The study employed a before–after intervention design that consisted of displaying a message in the computerized prescription on the third day and suspension of the prescription on the fifth day of intravenous antimicrobial therapy. A total of 465 patients were followed during the control period (CP) and 440 in the intervention period (IP). The intravenous therapy was switched to oral therapy for 11 (2.4%) patients during the CP and 25 (5.7%) in the IP (p=0.011), and was discontinued for 82 (17.6%) patients during the CP and 106 (24.1%) in the IP (p=0.017). During the IP there was a significant increase of patients who had their antimicrobial treatment discontinued before the seventh day of intravenous treatment, 37.40% (49/131) in the IP and 16.13% (15/93) in the CP (p=0.0005). The duration of intravenous antimicrobial therapy decreased by one day, but it was not significant (p=0.136). It is concluded that the proposed intervention is effective in promoting the early discontinuation of antimicrobial treatment and/or switch to oral therapy. As long as a computerized system for prescription already exists, it is easy and inexpensive to be implemented, especially in hospitals in developing countries.