High Levels of Antibodies to Staphylococcus aureus Exotoxins May Fend Off Sepsis

Potential targets of a toxin-based vaccine could be on the horizon.

Staphylococcus aureus is a well-recognized cause of invasive disease and sepsis. Mortality rates related to sepsis are high, despite appropriate antibiotic therapy. Why some patients with S. aureus bacteremia develop sepsis and others do not is largely unknown. Might low levels of antibodies to S. aureus exotoxins show an association with sepsis risk among adults with bloodstream infection?

To find out, investigators prospectively identified eligible immunocompetent adults with S. aureus bacteremia at four Maryland hospitals. Serum samples were obtained before or at presentation (0–3 days before the positive S. aureus blood culture was collected). Measurements included total immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody levels, as well as levels of IgG to…

Reviewing Author

Larry M. Baddour, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate, Inc. (Authorship duties)

Larry M. Baddour, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate, Inc. (Authorship duties)