Culture methods to evaluate central venous catheter sepsis.

ABSTRACT

Sepsis is a frequent complication of central venous catheters, but the diagnosis of catheter sepsis is not always clear-cut. A variety of culture methods is available to determine catheter-related septicemia. Each method has advantages and disadvantages for the clinician to consider. This article reviews qualitative, quantitative, and other culture methods applicable to both blood and the device.