Risk Of Infectious Complications Research Articles

Association Between Renal Pelvis Urine Density and the Risk of Infectious Complications after Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery.

Introduction: Renal pelvis urine density (RPUD), as measured by computed tomography (CT), may serve as an effective predictor for pyonephrosis. Our objective was to evaluate the correlation between the likelihood of developing infectious complications post-retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and RPUD measurements obtained from preoperative CT scans. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data from patients who underwent RIRS for kidney stone treatment at a tertiary care facility between June 2017 and June 2024, using the hospital's database. The patients were divided into two groups based on the development of postoperative infective complications. The groups were compared in terms of preoperative (demographic data, stone characteristic, and RPUD) and operation data. RPUD was measured by creating an ellipse much as possible area encompassing the renal pelvis on the treated side area encompassing the renal pelvis on the treated side, and the average Hounsfield unit (HU) value was recorded. Results: Postoperative infection developed in 31 of 588 patients (5.3%). The median RPUD value was 15 in the infective group and 8 in the noninfective group, with a statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.001). Body mass index, stone burden, stone density, and RPUD were associated with postoperative infection in the multivariate analysis (p = 0.001, p = 0.008, p = 0.007, and p = 0.001, respectively). Each unit increase in RPUD increased the risk of postoperative infection 1.107-fold. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between RPUD value and the risk of postoperative infection, with an area under the curve of 0.742 (p = 0.001). When the RPUD cut-off value was accepted as 14, sensitivity was 0.613 and specificity was 0.779. Conclusion: This study showed a significant association between HU values in RPUD and the risk of infectious complications following RIRS. This finding suggests that incorporating urine HU values from CT images into preoperative risk assessment could be crucial for infection prevention and management.

Infectious complications associated with immune and targeted anti-cancer therapies: a retrospective study of the FDA adverse events reporting system (FAERS)

ABSTRACT Background Immune and targeted anti-cancer therapies are associated with an increased risk of infectious complications. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the infectious complications associated with immune and targeted anti-cancer drugs. Research design and methods This was a retrospective study for immune and targeted anti-cancer drugs submitted to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) from 1996 to 20 March 2024. The primary outcome was the rate of infectious disease events, and the secondary outcomes were the incidence of febrile neutropenia (FN), all-cause mortality, and the top 10 infections in each class. Results Our study included 14 drug classes comprising 44 drugs. The incidence of infectious complications was 14.31% (110,671/773,130). The highest incidence rate was reported with IL-6 inhibitors (30.89%), the highest incidence of FN was reported with Histone deacetylase inhibitors (8.43%), and the highest all-cause mortality was reported with BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors (17.17%). Conclusion Immune and targeted anti-cancer therapies vary in the incidence of infectious complications. Pirtobrutinib, copanlisib, sirolimus, vorinostat, and tocilizumab were associated with high infectious complications (>30%) that warrant emphasis in the clinical guidelines. Thus, clinicians should vigilantly monitor patients undergoing immune and targeted therapies for infectious complications and use antimicrobial prophylaxes when indicated.

Preoperative immunonutrition and postoperative outcomes in patients with cancer undergoing major abdominal surgery: Retrospective cohort study.

Surgical resection is a first-line treatment for patients with cancer, but preoperative malnutrition is a risk factor for postoperative complications. This study aimed to evaluate the association between preoperative administration of an immunonutrition regimen and postoperative clinical outcomes in patients with cancer undergoing major abdominal surgery. The Surgical Prehabilitation Multimodal Oncology (SUPREMO) retrospective cohort study, conducted from January 2021 to December 2023, included patients with cancer undergoing major abdominal surgery. Patients were categorized based on whether they received a complete immunonutrition regimen or an incomplete or no regimen. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from electronic health records for descriptive analysis. Logistic regression was used to assess the impact of immunonutrition on the risk of infectious complications, with clinical and demographic variables as explanatory factors. A total of 620 patients were included, with 49% receiving a complete preoperative immunonutrition regimen. Bivariate analysis indicated that complete regimen administration was associated with lower intensive care unit (ICU) admission, invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), and vasopressor support requirements (p=0.005, p=0.019, and p=0.032, respectively). The logistic regression model showed a significant reduction in in-hospital infectious complications (odds ratio 0.54, 95% confidence interval 0.31-0.98; p=0.044). Administering a complete preoperative immunonutrition regimen may be associated with reduced infectious complications, ICU and IMV requirements, and vasopressor support use.

Efficacy of Prostate Biopsies via Transperineal and Transrectal Routes for Significant Prostate Cancer Detection: A Multicenter Paired–Matched Study

Background: A transperineal approach to prostate biopsy is now recommended to reduce the risk of infectious complications associated with the transrectal route. Our aim is to compare the efficacy of transrectal- and transperineal-guided biopsies involving the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of index lesions in detecting significant prostate cancer (sPCas), and to evaluate the role of systematic biopsies. Methods: In a prospective and multicenter trial conducted in an opportunistic early detection program for sPCa in Catalonia (Spain), between 2021 and 2023, 4029 men suspected of having PCa underwent multiparametric MRI followed by guided and systematic biopsies. From this cohort, we retrospectively selected 1376 men with reports of the size and localization of their index lesions. A matched group of 325 pairs of men subjected to transrectal and transperineal biopsy were chosen to account for confounding variables. We compared sPCa detection rates determined via index lesions and systematic biopsies, as well as by lesion localization. Results: Transperineal and transrectal biopsies detected sPCa in 49.5% vs. 40.6% overall (p = 0.027), 44.6% vs. 30.8% from index lesions (p = 0.001), and 24.3% vs. 35.1% from systematic biopsies (p = 0.003). SPCa detection rates were higher in transperineal biopsies across all index lesion localizations, with significant increases in the anterior zone (47.8% vs. 20.8% at the mid-base, p = 0.039, and 52.9% vs. 24.2% at the apex, p = 0.024) and central zone (33.3% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.003). With regards to SPCa detected only in systematic biopsies, 10.5% of cases were detected in transrectal biopsies and 4.9% of cases were detected in transperineal biopsies (p = 0.012). Conclusions: Targeted biopsies conducted via the transperineal route showed higher sPCa detection rates than transrectal biopsies, particularly for anterior and apical lesions, with systematic biopsies showing reduced utility.

Circulating monocytes upregulate CD52 and sustain innate immune function in cirrhosis unless acute decompensation emerges.

Infectious complications determine the prognosis of cirrhosis patients. Their infection susceptibility relates to the development of immuneparesis, a complex interplay of different immunosuppressive cells and soluble factors. Mechanisms underlying the dynamics of immuneparesis of innate immunity remain inconclusive. We aimed to dissect the heterogeneity of circulating monocyte states in different cirrhosis stages, and pursued the function of selected differentially expressed genes. We systematically investigated circulating monocytes in health, compensated and not-acutely decompensated (NAD) cirrhosis using single cell RNA sequencing. Selective genes were confirmed by flow cytometry and diverse functional assays on monocytes ex vivo. We partitioned monocytes into seven clusters. Their abundances varied between cirrhosis stages, confirming previously reported changes i.e. reduction in CD14lowCD16++ and emergence of M-MDSC in advanced stages. DE genes between health and disease and among stages were detected, including for the first time CD52. CD52-expression on monocytes significantly enhanced throughout compensated and NAD cirrhosis. Heretofore the biological significance of CD52-expression on monocytes remained unknown. CD52highCD14+CD16highHLA-DRhigh monocytes in patients with cirrhosis revealed a functional phenotype of active phagocytes with enhanced migratory potential, increased cytokine production, but poor T cell activation. Following acute decompensation (AD), CD52 was cleaved by elevated phospholipase C (PLC), and soluble CD52 (sCD52) was detected in the circulation. Inhibition and cleavage of CD52 significantly suppressed monocyte functions ex vivo and in vitro, and the predominance of immunosuppressive CD52low circulating monocytes in patients with AD was associated with infection and low transplant-free survival. CD52 may represent a biologically relevant target for future immunotherapy. Stabilising CD52 may enhance monocyte functions and infection control in the context of cirrhosis, guided by sCD52/PLC as biomarkers indicating immuneparesis. Monocyte dysfunction substantially contributes to infection susceptibility which determines the prognosis of cirrhosis patients, and represents a critical condition with unmet therapeutic needs. Its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, although among hepatologists a better understanding of the monocyte pathophysiology in relation to cirrhosis stages, and a therapeutic reconstitution of monocyte function are believed to enhance defence against infection and thus reduce morbidity and mortality of patients with cirrhosis in the future. By systematically delineating the heterogeneity and function of circulating monocytes ex vivo, we identified that the absence of CD52 expression on monocytes represented a distinct biomarker of monocyte dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis, discriminating patients at substantial risk for infectious complications. Otherwise, given the beneficial antimicrobial functions of CD52-expressing monocytes, CD52-stablisation may also represent such a target for immunotherapy worth exploring, at it has been desired in clinical practise.

EARLY REFEEDING AFTER COLORECTAL CANCER SURGERY REDUCES COMPLICATIONS AND LENGTH OF HOSPITAL STAY.

Multimodal protocols such as Acceleration of Total Postoperative Recovery and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery propose a set of pre- and post-operative care to accelerate the recovery of surgical patients. However, in clinical practice, simple care such as early refeeding and use of drains are often neglected by multidisciplinary teams. Investigate whether early postoperative refeeding determines benefits in colorectal oncological surgery; whether the patients' clinical conditions preoperatively and the use of a nasogastric tube and abdominal drain delay their recovery. Retrospective cohort carried out at the Cascavel Uopeccan Cancer Hospital, including adult cancer patients (age ≥18 years), from the Unified Health System (SUS), who underwent colorectal surgeries from January 2018 to December 2021. 275 patients were evaluated. Of these, 199 (75.4%) were refed early. Late refeeding (odds ratio - OR=2.1; p=0.024), the use of nasogastric tube (OR=2.72; p=0.038) and intra-abdominal drain (OR=1.95; p=0.054) increased the chance of infectious complication. Multivariate analysis showed that receiving a late postoperative diet is an independent risk factor for infectious complications. Late refeeding (p=0.006) after the operation and the placement of an intra-abdominal drain (p=0.007) are independent risk factors for remaining hospitalized for more than five days postoperatively. Refeeding early in the postoperative period reduces the risk of infectious complications. Using abdominal drains and refeeding late (>48h) for cancer patients undergoing colorectal surgery are risk factors for hospital stays longer than five days.

Postoperative pancreatic fistula and postpancreatectomy acute pancreatitis: influence on the clinical course of the postoperative period and outcomes in patients after pancreaticoduodenectomy

Annotation. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is one of the most difficult surgical interventions in abdominal surgery. Particularly important complications of PD are postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and postpancreatectomy acute pancreatitis (PPAP), which have a significant impact on the clinical course of the postoperative period, hospitalization duration, risk of infectious complications, and overall health outcomes. The study was based on the analysis of 296 cases of patients who underwent PD in the period from 2014 to 2023. The criteria of the International study group on pancreatic surgery (ISGPS) were used to diagnose PPAP. Patients were divided into four groups according to the presence or absence of POPF and PPAP. The data obtained were processed by statistical methods using SPSS. Among 296 patients who underwent PD, POPF developed in 42,2% of cases, and PPAP - in 42,6%. Patients with a combination of POPF and PPAP had the worst rates of postoperative complications, more often required repeated interventions, and stayed in the hospital longer. The group with isolated POPF, but without PPAP, demonstrated the highest incidence of serious complications (bleeding, sepsis, multiple organ failure). The lowest complications were observed in the group without POPF and PPAP. Thus POPF and PPAP significantly worsen the course of the postoperative period in patients after PD, increasing the incidence of severe complications and mortality. To reduce the risks, individualized preoperative strategies, monitoring and prevention of POPF and PPAP in the perioperative management program of patients undergoing PD are necessary.

Long-term results of primary and revision oncological endoprosthetics

BACKGROUND: Increased overall survival leads to a significant increase in the service life of implants. Currently, no joint replacement systems are failure-free, which reduces the service life. AIM: To assess and systematize the main complications of primary and revision joint replacement surgery, identify the main causes of these complications at various stages of joint replacement based on literature data and analysis of own findings in a large patient population, and develop treatment approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 1,292 patients with primary bone and soft tissue sarcomas, as well as metastatic and benign bone tumors, with 1,671 primary and revision joint replacement surgeries of varying extent performed between January 1992 and January 2020. The proportion of males and females who underwent joint replacement surgery was approximately equal. Joint replacement surgery was performed in 886 (68.6%) patients with primary cancer, 144 (11.1%) patients with metastases to long bones, and 262 (20.3%) patients with benign tumors. RESULTS: During the study period, the overall incidence of complications was 1.4 times higher in the revision joint replacement surgery group (38.1%) compared to the primary joint replacement surgery group (26.6%). The most common type I–IV complications included unstable implants two and more years post-surgery (type IIB) and broken implants (type IIIA). As a result of innovative modifications, the overall incidence of type I–IV complications in primary and revision joint replacement surgery decreased to 16.5% and 24.3%, respectively. The most common cancer-related complication of primary joint replacement surgery was tumor recurrence (type V), accounting for 9.5% of cases. Tapered and cylindrical stems were the best shapes for primary and revision joint replacement surgery. The best stability was observed for 60–100 mm long stems in upper extremity joint replacement and 110–150 mm long stems in lower extremity joint replacement. Stems longer than 160 mm can only be used in revision joint replacement surgery. Adequate perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis reduced the risk of implant site infections. CONCLUSION: High-quality cement mantle formation, stems that match the diameter and shape of the medullary canal, and optimal stem length decrease the incidence of early aseptic instability. The study used a set of preventive measures, including strict compliance with standardized antibiotic therapy regimens during and after surgery, surgical technique modifications, perioperative patient management, and informing patients about the risks of infectious complications. These measures decreased the incidence of early implant site infections after primary and revision joint replacement surgery for a period of 28 years. The efficacy of combination treatment for these diseases has a direct impact on the incidence of local tumor recurrence. Surgical technique modifications based on tumor grade significantly increased treatment efficacy.

Early versus late infectious complications following chimeric antigen receptor-modified T-cell therapy

Despite increasing utilization of CAR T-cell therapy, data are lacking regarding long term follow up and risk of infectious complications after the early period following CAR T-cell infusion. In this study, we sought to compare epidemiology and risk factors for early (≤ 3 months) and late (3 months to 1 year) infections. Data were retrospectively collected at six time points: pre-CAR T, day of infusion, and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post CAR-T infusion for all consecutive adult patients treated at our institution. In this cohort, the cumulative incidence of any infection was 73.2% in the first year. Bridging therapy, CRS, neurotoxicity and steroid use were identified as contributing risk factors for early bacterial infections. After 3 months, community acquired respiratory infections were common. We characterize bacterial, viral and fungal pathogens based on time elapsed after CAR T-cell infusion.

Исследование дисфункции нижних мочевыводящих путей у женщин с рассеянным склерозом

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disorder of the central nervous system affecting primarily young women. Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) represents one of the disease manifestations creating the risk of infectious complications and kidney disease. Today, there is insufficient data on the urinary microflora composition obtained by advanced high-tech diagnosis methods. The study aimed to perform clinical assessment of NLUTD associated with MS and its impact on the quality of life (QOL), as well as to clarify the data on the urinary microflora composition. A total of 33 women with MS aged 36 [39.5; 30.5] years were assessed using the customized questionnaires for estimation of the NLUTD prevalence and severity, as well as for QOL evaluation. Qualitative determination and quantification of urinary opportunistic microflora (OM) were performed using the real-time polymerase chain reaction. A total of 19 (57.6%) women with MS had symptoms of NLUTD: symptoms of the storage (15 individuals, 45.5%) and emptying (16 individuals, 48.5%) phases. In almost half of women with MS, the complaints included abnormalities of both bladder functioning phases (12 individuals, 36.4%); moderate abnormalities prevailed (12 individuals, 34.6%). Women with MS and NLUTD were more disabled based on the EDSS score (3.5 [5.0; 3.0] points; p < 0.001) and had longer disease duration (13 [20.0; 5.0] years; p < 0.001). The QOL index of women with NLUTD showed dissatisfaction with bladder function. The study revealed bacteriuria in patients with MS and NLUTD. The data on the urinary microflora composition are provided: OM members (bacteria of the ESKAPE group) have been found in 8 samples obtained from women with MS and NLUTD. Bacteriuria was asymptomatic.

Transesophageal endosonography in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis: a narrative review.

Transesophageal endosonography, including endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) and endoscopic ultrasound with bronchoscope-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-B-FNA), has been applied to the diagnosis of benign as well as malignant diseases. This narrative review summarizes the recent use of EUS-(B)-FNA in diagnosing sarcoidosis. A comprehensive and systematic online literature search of PubMed was conducted using the keywords ("sarcoidosis"), and ("EUS" OR "EUS-FNA" OR "EUS-B" OR "EUS-B-FNA" OR "endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration" OR "endoscopic ultrasound using the EBUS scope guided fine needle aspiration" OR "endoscopic ultrasound using the EBUS bronchoscope" OR "transesophageal" OR "transesophageal endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration" OR "transesophageal bronchoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration"). Most EUS-FNA procedures were performed under moderate sedation, primarily using midazolam, with 22-gauge needles. The diagnostic sensitivity of sarcoidosis in mediastinal lymph node sampling is as high as 75-100% for EUS-FNA and 70-86% for EUS-B-FNA, much higher than that of traditional bronchoscopic procedures, such as transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) and conventional transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA). The complications associated with EUS-(B)-FNA have thus far included only a few cases of mediastinitis, successfully treated with antibiotics, as well as lymph node hematoma, and sore throat. EUS-FNA and EUS-B-FNA provide high diagnostic yields in patients with sarcoidosis. The safety profile is acceptable, although there is a slight risk of infectious complications. EUS-B-FNA, a minimally invasive and well-tolerated procedure, offers a viable alternative to endobronchial ultrasound-guided TBNA (EBUS-TBNA) for the diagnosis of sarcoidosis, particularly in patients with cough and poor respiratory function; this procedure can easily be performed by pulmonologists.

Retrograde intrarenal surgery with or without ureteral access sheath: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

The ureteral access sheath (UAS) is a medical device that enables repeated entrance into the ureter and collecting system during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Its impact on stone-free rates, ureteral injuries, operative time, and postoperative complications remains controversial. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing RIRS with versus without UAS for urolithiasis management. To compare outcomes from retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for stone extraction with or without ureteral access sheath (UAS); evaluating stone-free rate (SFR), ureteral injuries, operative time, and postoperative complications. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library in June 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety outcomes of UAS use in RIRS for urolithiasis treatment. Articles published between 2014 and 2024 were included. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences (MDs) were calculated for binary and continuous outcomes, respectively. Five RCTs comprising 466 procedures were included. Of these, 246 (52.7%) utilized UAS. The follow-up ranged from 1 week to 1 month. UAS reduced the incidence of postoperative fever (RR 0.49; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.29-0.84; p=0.009), and postoperative infection (RR 0.50; 95% CI 0.30-0.83; p=0.008). There were no significant differences between groups in terms of SFR (RR 1.05; 95% CI 0.99-1.11; p=0.10), ureteral injuries (RR 1.29; 95% CI 0.95-1.75; p=0.11), operative time (MD 3.56 minutes; 95% CI -4.15 to 11.27 minutes; p=0.36), or length of stay (MD 0.32 days; 95% CI -0.42 to 1.07 days; p=0.40). UAS leads to a lower rate of post-operative fever and infection. However, UAS did not significantly reduce or increase the SFR or the rate of ureteral injuries during RIRS for patients with urolithiasis. The use of UAS should be considered to decrease the risk of infectious complications, particularly in those who may be at higher risk for such complications.

Significance of Targeted Antimicrobial Prophylaxis Using Rectal-culture Selective Screening Media Prior to Transrectal Prostate Biopsy: A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Trial.

To examine whether antimicrobial prophylaxis based on screening rectal cultures using selective media prevented acute bacterial prostatitis following transrectal prostate biopsy (TRPB). In this multicenter, randomized controlled trial, we enrolled 403 patients undergoing TRPB with low risks of infectious complications. Patients were randomized into a cultured group (CG) or no cultured group (NCG). In the CG, patients with positive-culture results for fluoroquinolone (FQ)-resistant or extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) used piperacillin/tazobactam as prophylaxis, and those with negative-culture results and in the NCG used levofloxacin. The primary endpoint was the incidence of acute prostatitis after TRPB. The secondary endpoint was the accuracy of the selective media. Of 373 patients (CG, 187; NCG, 186), 67 were positive, and 120 were negative for rectal culture in the CG. The overall incidence of prostatitis after TRPB was 1.1% (n=4). The incidences in the CG and the NCG were 1.6% (n=3, all negative-culture cases) and 0.5% (n=1), respectively, without significant difference (P=.3). No prostatitis occurred in the positive-culture group. The sensitivity and specificity of the levofloxacin-insusceptible selective media were 98.1% and 94.7%, respectively. Screening with selective media before TRPB in patients with low infectious risks may provide additive value to preventing post-biopsy prostatitis. Piperacillin/tazobactam can be considered when FQ-resistant or ESBL-producing E. coli is detected.

Antimicrobial prescribing in French nursing homes and interventions for antimicrobial stewardship: a qualitative study

BackgroundOveruse of antibiotics is frequent in nursing homes (NHs) leading to adverse events and selection of resistant bacteria. Antimicrobial stewardship interventions showed heterogeneous effects on reducing inappropriate use of antimicrobials in NHs.ObjectivesThis study aimed (1) to analyze antimicrobial prescribing determinants in NHs; (2) to identify which resources for antimicrobial prescribing are used by NHs’ physicians (3) understand which antimicrobial stewardship interventions are required and how they should be implemented in NHs.MethodsWe conducted individual semi-directed interviews with NHs’ prescribing physicians in Ile-de-France, France. A thematic content analysis was conducted iteratively.ResultsThirteen interviews were conducted. Participants were mostly women, with a median age of 48 years and a median professional experience in NHs of three years. Participants included medical coordinators, general practitioners and salaried physicians. Main determinants of antimicrobial prescribing in NHs were the perceived risk of infectious complications and discomfort in residents, the difficulty in obtaining microbiological samples and the lack of healthcare professionals to monitor patients. Most participants reported using national guidelines and electronic decision support systems to guide their antimicrobial prescribing. Institutional constraints accentuate situations of doubt and prompt physicians to prescribe antimicrobials “just in case” despite the will to follow guidelines and the known risks of antimicrobial misuse. Physicians stated that proper antimicrobial use in NHs would require a major effort but was not judged a priority as compared to other medical issues. Producing guidelines tailored to the NH’s context, performing good practice audits with feedback on antimicrobial prescribing, and reinforcing multidisciplinary relationships and discussions between city and hospital professionals were cited as potential interventions. The role of the medical coordinator was described as central. According to physicians, collaboration among stakeholders, providing support and training during the process might prove effective strategies to ensure successful implementation.ConclusionAntimicrobial prescribing is a complex decision-making process involving different factors and actors in NHs. Tailored guidelines, good practice audits, strengthened multidisciplinary collaboration were proposed as key AMS interventions. Physicians emphasized the central role of the medical coordinator supported by stakeholder engagement, collaboration, training and ongoing support for successful implementation.

Surgical aspects in obstetric practice: modern approaches and technologies

Modern surgical methods in obstetric practice play a key role in ensuring the safety of the mother and newborn. With the development of medicine, the possibilities of surgical interventions have significantly expanded, diagnostics have improved, and risks for patients have decreased. This paper discusses the main surgical interventions in obstetrics, such as caesarean section, episiotomy, vacuum extraction and the application of obstetric forceps. Special attention is paid to new technologies and methods, such as minimally invasive operations, the use of laser technology, as well as robotic systems. Modern approaches to caesarean section include aspects such as optimization of the incision, accelerated recovery after surgery and reduction of the risk of infectious complications. In addition, the latest methods of anesthesiological support and antiseptic methods are discussed. Thus, the development of surgical aspects of obstetric practice contributes to reducing maternal and infant mortality, improves the quality of medical care and improves the prognosis for both patients.

Dose-Reduced FLA-IDA in Combination with Venetoclax Is an Effective and Safe Salvage Therapy in Relapsed and Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia (R/R AML).

Despite the development of targeted therapies in first-line AML, complete remissions (CR) cannot be achieved in 30-40%, and relapse rates remain high. In R/R AML the intensive treatment regimen of fludarabine, cytarabine, idarubicin combined with venetoclax (FLA-VIDA) showed improved remission rates compared to FLA-IDA. In this retrospective single-center analysis, we investigated the efficacy and safety of dose-reduced FLA-IDA with and without venetoclax to minimize the risk of infectious complications and excessive myelosuppression; Methods: Between 2011 and 2023, 89 R/R AML patients were treated with dose-reduced FLA-IDA (fludarabine 30 mg/m2 day 1-4, cytarabine 2000 mg/m2 day 1-4, idarubicin 10 mg/m2 day 1 + 4). From 2019 onwards, venetoclax was added (day 1 100 mg, day 2 200 mg, day 3-14 400 mg); Results: Significantly improved response rates were observed with 60.0% vs. 38.8% CR/CRi (p = 0.0297) and 74.5% vs. 47.3% (p = 0.032) CR/CRi/MLFS for FLA-VIDA vs. FLA-IDA. Further, with FLA-VIDA significantly improved event-free survival (EFS) was observed (p = 0.026). Overall survival (OS) was similar in FLA-VIDA and FLA-IDA treated patients. The most common treatment-related toxicities were hematological adverse events, but they were comparable between groups. The time to neutrophil and platelet recovery were similar in responding patients treated with FLA-VIDA vs. FLA-IDA; Conclusions: Dose-reduced FLA-VIDA significantly improved response rates without increases in toxicity, showing promise for an improved R/R AML treatment.

Role of albumin and prealbumin in assessing nutritional status and predicting increased risk of infectious complications during childhood cancer treatment.

Proper nutrition in patients with cancer is important for preventing treatment complications and achieving remission. Malnutrition in these patients leads to reduced production of essential structural proteins. The aim of the study was to assess the role of albumin and prealbumin in assessing the nutritional status of cancer patients and in predicting an increased risk of infectious complications during treatment. The study included 40 pediatric patients with newly diagnosed cancer and 30 healthy children serving as controls. Prealbumin, albumin, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the upper arm muscle area (UAMA) were measured before and after treatment in children with cancer and compared with the control group to evaluate nutritional status. Additionally, we assessed associations between these parameters and the incidence of infectious complications during cancer treatment in patients with anthropometric malnutrition, as well as associations with an increased risk of malnutrition related to inflammation before treatment. At baseline, patients with cancer had lower prealbumin and albumin levels (p< 0.001), higher CRP levels (p < 0.001), and lower UAMA percentiles (p = 0.0245) compared with controls. Cancer treatment resulted in an increase in prealbumin and albumin levels (p < 0.001) and a reduction in CRP levels (p < 0.001), with no change in UAMA (p = 1.000). Prealbumin deficiency was more common than albumin deficiency before and after cancer treatment. Median prealbumin and albumin levels tended to increase with an increasing UAMA percentile range, but these differences were not significant (p> 0.05). The incidence of infectious complications during treatment in patients with risk factors for inflammation-related malnutrition was similar to that in patients with pre-existing anthropometric malnutrition without inflammation (p = 1.000). In a univariable logistic regression model including prealbumin and albumin deficiency, as well as low UAMA percentile, albumin deficiency before treatment was shown to be a significant predictor of 3 or more infectious episodes during treatment (p = 0.02). Albumin and prealbumin deficiency may predict the risk of malnutrition associated with inflammation in patients with cancer. Hypoalbuminemia may predict an unfavorable course of treatment complicated by frequent infections in these patients.

Prevention of infectious complications after radical cystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to evaluate the impact of different antibiotic prophylaxis (АР) strategies on the incidence of infectious complications within 30 days after radical cystectomy (RC).Material and Methods. The meta-analysis protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO): ID-CRD42023480525. A systematic search for studies published in the last 10 years (November 2013 – November 2023) was conducted in the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases by two independent researchers. A total of 7 full-text articles were included in the final statistical analysis (data from 90,935 patients). The analysis focused on three aspects: comparison of the effectiveness of different durations of antibiotic prophylaxis (24 hours or more), the impact of the type of antibacterial agent used, and the application of Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocols on the overall incidence of infectious complications, the development of soft tissue infections, and upper urinary tract infections (UTIs). Meta-analysis was performed using R 4.3.2 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria) and the metafor 4.2-0 package.Results. The median overall incidence of infectious complications was 31.78 % (23.8–58.8 %), surgical site infections – 16.46 % (6.25–35.41 %), and UTIs – 25.11 % (3.86–35.7 %), including cases leading to urosepsis. The meta-analysis did not reveal a statistically signifшcant effect of the duration of AP (24 hours or more) on the risk of infectious complications: for overall infectious complications, the risk was OR 1.11 (95 % CI 0.92–1.33; p=0.27), for surgical site infection OR 1.00 (95 % CI 0.87–1.15; p=0.97), and for UTIs OR 0.96 (95 % CI 0.84–1.10; p=0.59). However, the overall incidence of infectious complications was significantly higher in the standard perioperative management group, without ERAS protocols (OR=3.02 [95 % CI 2.07; 4.39], p&lt;0.001, I 2 =93.1 %). Conclusion. The results of this study indicate that existing AP strategies may be ineffective in reducing postoperative infectious complications in patients undergoing cystectomy with urinary diversion. Extending AP beyond 24 hours, as well as the standard regimen, did not demonstrate a reduction in infection risk, highlighting the need for a revision of clinical guidelines in this area. The principles of the ERAS program may play a crucial role in reducing infectious complications, showing promising results and requiring further research and implementation in clinical practice. Key words: radical cystectomy, antibiotic prophylaxis, complications, surgical site infection, upper urinary tract infections, ERAS&gt; ˂ 0.001, I2 =93.1 %).Conclusion. The results of this study indicate that existing AP strategies may be ineffective in reducing postoperative infectious complications in patients undergoing cystectomy with urinary diversion. Extending AP beyond 24 hours, as well as the standard regimen, did not demonstrate a reduction in infection risk, highlighting the need for a revision of clinical guidelines in this area. The principles of the ERAS program may play a crucial role in reducing infectious complications, showing promising results and requiring further research and implementation in clinical practice.

Predictors and Profile of Severe Infectious Complications in Multiple Myeloma Patients Treated with Daratumumab-Based Regimens: A Machine Learning Model for Pneumonia Risk.

Daratumumab (Dara) is the first monoclonal antibody introduced into clinical practice to treat multiple myeloma (MM). It currently forms the backbone of therapy regimens in both newly diagnosed (ND) and relapsed/refractory (RR) patients. However, previous reports indicated an increased risk of infectious complications (ICs) during Dara-based treatment. In this study, we aimed to determine the profile of ICs in MM patients treated with Dara-based regimens and establish predictors of their occurrence. This retrospective, real-life study included MM patients treated with Dara-based regimens between July 2019 and March 2024 at our institution. Infectious events were evaluated using the Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. The study group consisted of a total of 139 patients, including 49 NDMM and 90 RRMM. In the RR setting, the majority (60.0%) of patients received the Dara, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (DVd) regimen, whereas ND patients were predominantly (98%) treated with the Dara, bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone (DVTd) regimen. Overall, 55 patients (39.6%) experienced ICs. The most common IC was pneumonia (37.5%), followed by upper respiratory tract infections (26.8%). Finally, twenty-five patients had severe ICs (grade ≥ 3) and required hospitalization, and eight patients died due to ICs. In the final multivariable model adjusted for setting (ND/RR) and age, hemoglobin level (OR 0.77, 95% CI: 0.61-0.96, p = 0.0037), and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) >1 (OR 4.46, 95% CI: 1.63-12.26, p = 0.0037) were significant factors influencing severe IC occurrence. Additionally, we developed predictive models using the J48 decision tree, gradient boosting, and random forest algorithms. After conducting 10-fold cross-validation, these models demonstrated strong performance in predicting the occurrence of pneumonia during treatment with daratumumab-based regimens. Simple clinical and laboratory assessments, including hemoglobin level and ECOG scale, can be valuable in identifying patients vulnerable to infections during Dara-based regimens, facilitating personalized prophylactic strategies.

Assessment of the humoral immunity against diphtheria, tetanus, and hepatitis B among children with acute lymphocytic leukemia

Background: Approximately all systemic therapies for childhood affect the immune system. The behavior of the immune system in leukemia patients following chemotherapy is not yet clearly defined. The probability of vaccination failure and the need for revaccination remain challenging for these patients. Aim: To evaluate the humoral immunity against diphtheria, tetanus, and hepatitis B in children with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) immediately and 6 months after chemotherapy. Materials and Methods: In the present prospective cohort study, 21 patients with ALL referred to Mofid Children’s Hospital were studied immediately and 6 months after chemotherapy. Serum samples were collected from patients, and the levels of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, IgE, and IgA) antibodies against diphtheria, tetanus, and hepatitis B were determined using specific enzymelinked immunosorbent assay kits. The obtained data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences 21 software. Results: A total of 13 males and 8 females with an average age of 8.6 ± 2.5 years were included in the present study. Six months after chemotherapy, the mean level of IgG, IgM, IgE, and IgA displayed an increase of 563.1 units in IgG, 11 units in IgM, 11.3 units in IgE, and 5 units in IgA levels. Moreover, data revealed that 6 months after chemotherapy, the mean level of IgG antibodies displayed an increase of 7.09, 3.43, and 1.03 units against hepatitis B, diphtheria, and tetanus, respectively. A significant relationship was found between the antibody level against diphtheria and the age group of the patients (p = 0.003). Conclusion: Humoral immune status was boosted after 6 months of chemotherapy, though all patients had some extent of lasting immune dysfunction. We indicate that survivors of childhood cancer have ongoing humoral immunological defects and may remain at risk for infectious complications after completion of therapy. Relevance for Patients: The present study indicated that systemic therapies for pediatrics with leukemia affect the immune system. Pediatrics with leukemia may remain at risk for infectious complications after completion of therapy.