Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Pathogens in Cancer Patients

Two studies identified recent antibiotic exposure as the most important risk factor for acquisition of such pathogens.

Cancer patients — particularly those who are neutropenic — are highly susceptible to bacterial infections; gram-negative pathogens are often involved. Given the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacilli (MDRGNB), what are the risk factors for colonization or infection with such pathogens in these patients? Two recent studies conducted in Barcelona, Spain, have addressed this urgent question.

In an investigation conducted at two teaching hospitals between May 2006 and December 2007, Arnan and colleagues obtained rectal swabs during neutropenia episodes from 162 consecutive adult patients who had acute leukemia or were undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Escherich…

Reviewing Author

Thomas Glück, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsConsilium Infectiorum by InfectoPharm, Infection

Thomas Glück, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsConsilium Infectiorum by InfectoPharm, Infection