Perfil fenotípico de resistência à colistina e tigeciclina em um hospital público no Brasil / Phenotypical profile of colistin and tigecycline resistance in a public hospital in Brazil / Perfil fenotípico de resistencia a la colistina y tigeciclina en un hospital público de Brasil

Justificativa e objetivos: Infecções Relacionadas à Assistência à Saúde (IRAS) causadas por bacilos Gram negativos multirresistentes (BGN-MDR) são consideradas um problema de saúde pública e um impacto nas taxas de mortalidade nas Unidades de Terapia Intensiva (UTI). O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar o perfil fenotípico de resistência à colistina e à tigeciclina, consideradas como último recurso terapêutico aos BGN-MDR. Métodos: Os dados foram coletados nas fichas de busca ativa do serviço de controle de infecções e prontuários médicos de pacientes internados em duas UTIs de um hospital público de Joinville, entre janeiro de 2016 e junho de 2017. Resultados: Ocorreram 256 IRAS por BGN, acometendo principalmente o gênero masculino (62%), com mediana de idade de 65 anos. Entre os BGN, 37% expressaram MDR; sendo as espécies mais frequentes: Klebsiella pneumoniae e (47%), Acinetobacter baumannii (23%) e Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (11%). A resistência de BGN-MDR à colistina e tigeciclina foi de 5% e de 12%, respectivamente; 5% dos isolados foram resistentes aos dois antibióticos. A taxa de óbito entre os pacientes com IRAS por BGN-MDR resistentes à colistina foi mais alta (60%) que aquelas à tigeciclina (45%). Conclusão: K. pneumoniae e A. baumannii produtores de carbapenemases, resistentes a colistina e tigeciclina prevaleceram entre os BGN-MDR, e estiveram associadas a maioria dos óbitos. Essas observações, junto com o alto uso de carbapenêmicos na terapia empírica, mostra a necessidade do uso racional de antimicrobianos.(AU)

Background and objectives: Healthcare-associated Infections (HAIs) caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (GNB-MDR) are considered a public health problem and have an impact on mortality rates in Intensive Care Units (ICU). The aim of this study was to verify the phenotypic profile of resistance to colistin and tigecycline, considered as the last antimicrobial choice to treat BGNMDR infections. Methods: Data were collected on the active search records of the infection control service and medical records of patients admitted to two ICUs at a public hospital in Joinville between January 2016 and June 2017. Results: There were 256 HAIs caused by GNB, mainly affecting males (62%), with a median age of 65 years. Among GNBs, 37% expressed MDR; the most frequent species were: Klebsiella pneumoniae (47%), Acinetobacter baumannii (23%) and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (11%). The resistance of GNB-MDR to colistin and tigecycline was 5% and 12%, respectively; 5% of the isolates were resistant to both antibiotics. The death rate among patients with HAIs caused by colistin-resistant GNB-MDR was higher (60%) than those to tigecycline (45%). Conclusion: Carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii, resistant to colistin and tigecycline, prevailed among GNB-MDRs, and were associated with most deaths. These observations, coupled with the high use of carbapenems in empirical therapy, show the need for rational use of antimicrobials.(AU)

Justificación y objetivos: Las Infección nosocomial (IHs) causadas por bacilos Gram negativos multirresistentes (BGN-MDR) se consideran un problema de salud pública y un impacto en las tasas de mortalidad en las Unidades de Terapia Intensiva (UTI). El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar el perfil fenotípico de resistencia a la colistina ya la tigeciclina, consideradas como último recurso terapéutico a los BGN-MDR. Métodos: Los datos fueron recolectados en las fichas de búsqueda activa del servicio de control de infecciones y prontuarios médicos de pacientes internados en dos UTIs de un hospital público de Joinville, entre enero de 2016 y junio de 2017. Resultados: Ocurrieron 256 IHs por BGN, que afectan principalmente al género masculino (62%), con mediana de edad de 65 años. Entre los BGN, el 37% expresó MDR; siendo las especies más frecuentes: Klebsiella pneumoniae (47%), Acinetobacter baumannii (23%) y Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (11%). La resistencia de BGN-MDR a la colistina y tigeciclina fue del 5% y del 12%, respectivamente; 5% de los aislados fueron resistentes a los dos antibióticos. La tasa de muerte entre los pacientes con IH causadas por los BGN-MDR resistentes la colistina fue más alta (60%) que aquellas a tigeciclina (45%). Conclusión: K. pneumoniae y A. baumannii productoras de carbapenemases, resistentes la colistina y la tigeciclina, fueron más frecuentes entre los BGN-MDR y su asociación estuvo presente en la mayoría de las muertes. Estas observaciones, junto con el alto uso de carbapenems en la terapia empírica, muestran la necesidad de un uso racional de los antimicrobianos.(AU)

Costos médicos directos de las infecciones del tracto urinario por bacilos Gram negativos resistentes a betalactámicos en un hospital de alta complejidad de Medellín, Colombia / Direct medical costs of urinary tract infections by Gram-negative bacilli resistant to beta-lactams in a tertiary care hospital in Medellín, Colombia

Resumen Introducción. Las infecciones del tracto urinario son muy frecuentes en el ámbito hospitalario. Debido a la aparición de la resistencia antimicrobiana, la complejidad de los procesos de atención ha aumentado y, con ello, la demanda de recursos. Objetivo. Describir y comparar el exceso de los costos médicos directos de las infecciones del tracto urinario por Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae y Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistentes a betalactámicos. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio de cohorte en una institución de tercer nivel de Medellín, Colombia, entre octubre del 2014 y septiembre del 2015. Se incluyeron los pacientes con infección urinaria, unos por bacterias sensibles a los antibióticos betalactámicos, y otros por bacterias resistentes a las cefalosporinas de tercera y cuarta generación y a los antibióticos carbapenémicos. Los costos se analizaron desde la perspectiva del sistema de salud. La información clínico-epidemiológica se obtuvo de las historias clínicas y los costos se calcularon utilizando los manuales tarifarios estándar. El exceso de costos se estimó mediante análisis multivariados. Resultados. Se incluyeron 141 pacientes con infección urinaria: 55 (39 %) por bacterias sensibles a los betalactámicos, 54 (38,3 %) por bacterias resistentes a las cefalosporinas y 32 (22,7 %) por bacterias resistentes a los carbapenémicos. El exceso de costos totales ajustado de los 86 pacientes con infecciones del tracto urinario por bacterias resistentes a las cefalosporinas y a los carbapenémicos, fue de USD$ 193 (IC95% -347 a 734) y USD$ 633 (IC95% -50 a 1.316), respectivamente comparados con el grupo de 55 pacientes por bacterias sensibles a los betalactámicos. Las diferencias se presentaron principalmente en el uso de antibióticos de amplio espectro, como el meropenem, la colistina y la fosfomicina. Conclusión. Los resultados evidenciaron un incremento sustancial de los costos médicos directos de los pacientes con infecciones del tracto urinario por bacterias resistentes a las cefalosporinas o a los carbapenémicos. Esta situación genera especial preocupación en los países endémicos como Colombia, donde la alta frecuencia de infecciones del tracto urinario y de resistencia a los betalactámicos puede causar un mayor impacto económico en el sector de la salud.

Abstract Introduction: Urinary tract infections are very frequent in the hospital environment and given the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, they have made care processes more complex and have placed additional pressure on available healthcare resources. Objective: To describe and compare excess direct medical costs of urinary tract infections due to Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistant to beta-lactams. Materials and methods: A cohort study was conducted in a third level hospital in Medellín, Colombia, from October, 2014, to September, 2015. It included patients with urinary tract infections caused by beta-lactam-susceptible bacteria, third and fourth generation cephalosporin-resistant, as well as carbapenem-resistant. Costs were analyzed from the perspective of the health system. Clinical-epidemiological information was obtained from medical records and the costs were calculated using standard tariff manuals. Excess costs were estimated with multivariate analyses. Results: We included 141 patients: 55 (39%) were sensitive to beta-lactams, 54 (38.3%) were resistant to cephalosporins and 32 (22.7%) to carbapenems. The excess total adjusted costs of patients with urinary tract infections due to cephalosporin- and carbapenem-resistant bacteria were US$ 193 (95% confidence interval (CI): US$ -347-734) and US$ 633 (95% CI: US$ -50-1316), respectively, compared to the group of patients with beta-lactam sensitive urinary tract infections. The differences were mainly found in the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics such as meropenem, colistin, and fosfomycin. Conclusion: Our results show a substantial increase in the direct medical costs of patients with urinary tract infections caused by beta-lactam-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (cephalosporins and carbapenems). This situation is of particular concern in endemic countries such as Colombia, where the high frequencies of urinary tract infections and the resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics can generate a greater economic impact on the health sector.

Determinación de infecciones urinarias en mujeres internas de penal San Roque Sucre 2019 / Determination of urinary infections in internal women of San Roque Penal Sucre 2019

La infección en las vías urinarias constituye una causa importante de morbilidad en el adulto y son particularmente frecuentes en el sexo femenino, donde las mujeres son más propensas a contraer una IU lo que facilita que los gérmenes del exterior lleguen hasta el sistema urinario por ejemplo las bacterias gram negativas y la Escherichia Coli tiene una elevada tendencia a recidivar y volverse resistente al uso de antimicrobianos, las IU constituye una de las 10 enfermedades más comunes en privados de libertad en Bolivia, debido a que no tienen una buena infraestructura, los servicios sanitarios no abastecen a los internos ya que no cuentan con una buena información y educación sobre IU ignorando los riesgos, complicaciones que puede causar. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la prevalencia, los factores más frecuentes de IU en internas del penal San Roque. Se realizó el 10 de julio de 2019 un estudio observacional transversal en el que participaron todas las internas del penal de 22 a 72 años (n= 43). Para la determinación de infecciones urinarias, se entregó frascos recolectores para orina con previa indicación para la correcta recolección de la muestra. Posteriormente se realizó un examen general de orina (EGO) (examen físico, químico, microscópico) y tinción de Gram, como procedimiento final se hizo el cultivo para determinar el germen causante. En este estudio se trabajó con 43 mujeres, con el 100 % de la población de los cuales se obtuvo 11.62% dio positivo a IU, el 88.38% resulto negativo

Infection in the urinary tract is an important cause of morbidity in the adult and they are particularly frequent in the female sex, where women are more likely to get an UI, which makes it easier for germs from outside to reach the urinary system such as Gram-negative bacteria and Escherichia Coli have a high tendency to recur and become resistant to the use of antimicrobials, UTIs is one of the 10 most common diseases deprived of liberty in Bolivia, because they do not have a good infrastructure, health services they do not supply the inmates since they do not have good information and education about UI ignoring the risks, complications that can cause. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, the most frequent factors of UI in San Roque prison inmates. A cross-sectional observational study was carried out on July 10, 2019, in which all inmates of the prison from 22 to 72 years old participated (n = 43). For the determination of urinary infections, urine collection bottles were delivered with prior indication for the correct collection of the sample. Subsequently, a general urine test (EGO) (physical, chemical, microscopic examination) and Gram stain was performed, as a final procedure the culture was done to determine the causative germ. In this study we worked with 43 women, with 100% of the population of which 11.62% were obtained, IU tested positive, 88.38% were negative.

Prevalencia y perfil de susceptibilidad antimicrobiana en bacterias aisladas de úlceras crónicas infectadas en adultos / Prevalence and susceptibility pattern of bacteria isolated from infected chronic wounds in adult patients

Resumen Introducción: Las úlceras crónicas son un problema de salud pública, agravándose por infecciones bacterianas causadas principalmente por agentes resistentes. Objetivo: Estudiar prevalencia y perfil de susceptibilidad en bacterias aisladas de úlceras crónicas en pacientes adultos. Pacientes y Métodos: Pacientes atendidos en la Fundación Instituto Nacional de Heridas entre mayo y julio de 2014, con úlceras crónicas en extremidades inferiores con signos inflamatorios clínicos. Las muestras fueron cultivadas en aerobiosis y anaerobiosis y para la identificación bacteriana se empleó el sistema de galerías API (Biomerieux). La susceptibilidad in vitro se evaluó según el método de Kirby Bauer. Resultados: Se reclutaron 73 pacientes, entre quienes 46 presentaron úlceras infectadas, diagnosticándose 33 úlceras venosas con predominio de infección polimicrobiana y 10 úlceras de pie diabético con predominio de infección monomicrobiana (p ≤ 0,05). Se aislaron 68 cepas de los 46 pacientes con úlcera infectada. Las enterobacterias predominaron en infección monomicrobiana (p ≤ 0,05) y los demás grupos bacterianos fueron levemente más frecuentes en infección polimicrobiana. La especie prevalente fue Staphylococcus aureus (24%) seguida de Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18%). Cincuenta cepas (77%) presentaron resistencia a uno o más antibacterianos. Destacamos resistencia de S. aureus a ciprofloxacina (50%) y cefoxitina (37,5%) identificándose así resistencia a meticilina en la comunidad (SARM-AC), siendo todas sensibles a cotrimoxazol. Las enterobacterias presentaron resistencia a sensibilidad a amikacina (95,5%), P. aeruginosa evidenció resistencia a ciprofloxacina (33,3%) con alta sensibilidad a gentamicina (91,7%) y amikacina (83,3%), mientras Acinetobacter spp presentó resistencia a ciprofloxacina y ceftazidima en 60%, con 100% de sensibilidad a imipenem. Streptococcus β hemolítico presentó 50% de resistencia a clindamicina y penicilina. Conclusión: Estos datos entregan información epidemiológica de infecciones de úlceras crónicas, representando un apoyo al diagnóstico, tratamiento y manejo de esta patología.

Background: Chronic wounds are considered a public health problem that may be complicated by bacterial infections, mainly caused by resistant strains. Aim: To study the bacteria prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility in samples from adult patients with chronic wounds. Methods: Patients treated at National Institute of Wounds Foundation between May and July 2014, with chronic ulcers in lower extremities with clinical inflammatory signs were recluted. Samples were cultured in aerobic and anaerobic atmosphere and species identification was performed by API (Biomerieux) galleries. The in vitro susceptibility was evaluated according to the Kirby Bauer method. Results: From 73 patients, 46 had infected wounds most of them were venous ulcers (33) with prevalence in polymicrobial infections and 10 with foot-diabetes ulcers with prevalence in monomicrobial infections (p ≤ 0.05). Sixty-eight strains were isolated and Enterobacteriaceae were predominant in monomicrobial infection (p ≤ 0.05) and the other groups were slightly higher in polymicrobial infection. The main species were Staphylococcus aureus (24%) followed by P. aeruginosa (18%). Fifty strains (77%) were resistant or multi-resistance. We emphasize resistance of S. aureus to ciprofloxacin (50%) and cefoxitin (37.5%), thus identifying resistance to methicillin in the community (CA-SAMR), all of which are sensitive to cotrimoxazole. Enterobacteria showed sensitivity to amikacin (95.5%), P. aeruginosa showed resistance to ciprofloxacin (33.3%) with high sensitivity to gentamicin (91.7%) and amikacin (83.3%), while Acinetobacter spp showed resistance to ciprofloxacin and ceftazidime in 60%, with 100% sensitivity to imipenem. 50% Streptococcus β hemolytic showed resistance to clindamycin and penicillin. Conclusion: These data provide epidemiological information on chronic wound infections, representing support for diagnosis, treatment and management of this pathology.

Prevalence and antibiogram of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from medical device-related infections; a retrospective study in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract INTRODUCTION: With the advancement of medicine and surgery, various types of medical devices have become part of treatment strategies. METHODS: Identification and antimicrobial sensitivity testing were done according to CLSI guidelines following standard microbiological practices. RESULTS: Urinary catheter infections (31%) were most frequent followed by central venous catheter (18%) and orthopedic implants (15%). Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was a major cause of device-related infection after Escherichia coli (21%); other pathogens were Klebsiella pneumoniae (14%), Pseudomonas spp. (10%), Acinetobacter spp. (8%) and Candida species (7%). None of MRSA was resistant to vancomycin (MIC ≥16µg/mL). Resistance rates were 98% and 97% for ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Escherichia coli and MRSA are major pathogens of medical device-related infections.

Risk factors for mortality in ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis: a case-control study / Fatores de risco para mortalidade em traqueobronquite associada à ventilação mecânica: estudo caso-controle

ABSTRACT Objective To describe the microbiological characteristics and to assess the risk factors for mortality of ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis in a case-control study of intensive care patients. Methods This case-control study was conducted over a 6-year period in a 40-bed medical-surgical intensive care unit in a tertiary care, private hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Case patients were identified using the Nosocomial Infection Control Committee database. For the analysis of risk factors, matched control subjects were selected from the same institution at a 1:8.8 ratio, between January 2006 and December 2011. Results A total of 40 episodes of ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis were evaluated in 40 patients in the intensive care unit, and 354 intensive care patients who did not experience tracheobronchitis were included as the Control Group. During the 6-year study period, a total of 42 organisms were identified (polymicrobial infections were 5%) and 88.2% of all the microorganisms identified were Gram-negative. Using a logistic regression model, we found the following independent risk factors for mortality in ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis patients: Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation I score (odds ratio 1.18 per unit of score; 95%CI: 1.05-1.38; p=0.01), and duration of mechanical ventilation (odds ratio 1.09 per day of mechanical ventilation; 95%CI: 1.03-1.17; p=0.004). Conclusion Our study provided insight into the risk factors for mortality and microbiological characteristics of ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis.

RESUMO Objetivo Descrever as características microbiológicas e avaliar os fatores de risco para mortalidade na traqueobronquite associada à ventilação mecânica em um estudo caso-controle de pacientes de terapia intensiva. Métodos Estudo realizado ao longo de 6 anos em uma unidade de terapia intensiva médico-cirúrgica de 40 leitos, em um hospital privado e de nível terciário em São Paulo, Brasil. O Grupo Caso foi identificado usando o banco de dados da Comissão de Controle de Infecção Hospitalar. O Grupo Controle foi pareado na proporção de 1:8,8 entre janeiro de 2006 e dezembro de 2011. Resultados Quarenta episódios de traqueobronquites associadas à ventilação foram avaliados em 40 pacientes na unidade de terapia intensiva, e 354 pacientes não apresentaram traqueobronquite Grupo Controle. Foram identificados 42 microrganismos (dos quais 5% foram infecções polimicrobianas), sendo que 88,2% de todos os microrganismos eram bactérias Gram-negativas. Usando um modelo de regressão logística, encontramos os seguintes fatores de risco independentes para mortalidade em pacientes com traqueobronquites associadas à ventilação: pontuação da Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation I (odds ratio 1,18 por uma unidade de pontuação; IC95%: 1,05-1,38; p=0,01) e duração da ventilação mecânica (odds ratio 1,09 por dia de ventilação mecânica; IC95%: 1,03-1,17; p=0,004). Conclusão Nosso estudo forneceu informações sobre os fatores de risco para mortalidade e características microbiológicas da traqueobronquite associada à ventilação mecânica.

Pressure ulcer as a reservoir of multiresistant Gram-negative bacilli: risk factors for colonization and development of bacteremia

Abstract The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors that predispose patients who are hospitalized with pressure ulcers (PUs) colonized by Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) to develop bacteremia. In addition, we also detected main phenotypes of resistance in infected and uninfected PUs. A prospective cohort study was conducted at the Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Uberlândia including patients with Stage II or greater PUs, colonized or not with GNB, from August 2009 to July 2010. Infected ulcers were defined based on clinical signs and on positive evaluation of smears of wound material translated by a ratio of polymorphonuclear cells to epithelial cells ≥2:1, after Giemsa staining. A total of 60 patients with Stage II PUs were included. Of these 83.3% had PUs colonized and/or infected. The frequency of polymicrobial colonization was 74%. Enterobacteriaceae and GNB non-fermenting bacteria were the most frequent isolates of PUs with 44.0% of multiresistant isolates. Among patients who had infected PUs, six developed bacteremia by the same microorganism with a 100% mortality rate. In addition, PUs in hospitalized patients were major reservoir of multiresistant GNB, also a high-risk population for the development of bacteremia with high mortality rates.

Influence of glycemic control on the levels of subgingival periodontal pathogens in patients with generalized chronic periodontitis and type 2 diabetes

Abstract Objective This study evaluated the influence of glycemic control on the levels and frequency of subgingival periodontal pathogens in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and generalized chronic periodontitis (ChP). Material and Methods Fifty-six patients with generalized ChP and type 2 DM were assigned according to the levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) into one of the following groups: HbA1c<8% (n=28) or HbA1c≥8% (n=28). Three subgingival biofilm samples from sites with probing depth (PD)<5 mm and three samples from sites with PD≥5 mm were analyzed by quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for the presence and levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, Eubacterium nodatum, Parvimona micra, Fusobacterium nucleatum ssp. and Prevotella intermedia. Results The mean counts of F. nucleatum ssp. were statistically significantly higher in the sites with PD≥5 mm of the HbA1c≥8% group (p<0.05). Frequencies of detection of T. forsythia, E. nodatum, P. micra and F. nucleatum ssp. were all higher in the sites with PD≥5 mm of the patients with HbA1c≥8%, compared with those of patients with HbA1c<8% (p<0.05). Frequency of detection of P. intermedia was higher in the sites with PD<5 mm of the patients with HbA1c≥8% than those of the patients with HbA1c<8% (p<0.05). Conclusions Poor glycemic control, as indicated by HbA1c≥8%, is associated with increased levels and frequencies of periodontal pathogens in the subgingival biofilm of subjects with type 2 DM and ChP.

Changes in the conjunctival bacterial flora of patients hospitalized in an intensive care unit / Mudanças na flora bacteriana conjuntival de pacientes internados em unidade de terapia intensiva

ABSTRACT Purpose: To identify the changes in aerobic conjunctival bacterial flora and to correlate culture results with physical health and the duration of patients' hospitalization in an intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: Patients hospitalized in the ICU were included in this study. Conjunctival cultures from all patients were obtained using a standard technique on days 1, 3, 7, and 14. Swabs were plated on nonselective (blood agar) and enriched (chocolate agar) media within one hour. Visible colonies were isolated, and standard microbiological techniques were used to identify the bacteria. The frequency, identity, and correlation of culture results with patients' physical findings and the duration of hospitalization were determined. Results: We obtained 478 cultures (day 1, 270; day 3, 156; day 7, 36; and day 14, 16) from 135 patients; 288 (60.2%) cultures were positive, and 331 microorganisms were isolated. The most frequently isolated microorganism from the cultures was coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species (n=210/331, 63.5%), and the others were Corynebacterium diphtheriae (n=52/331, 15.7%), S. aureus (n=26/331, 7.9%), gram-negative bacilli other than Pseudomonas (n=14/331, 4.2%), Neisseria species (n=8/331, 2.4%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n=6/331, 1.8%), Haemophilus influenzae (n=7/331, 2.1%), Acinetobacter species (n=6/331, 1.8%), and Streptococcus species (n=2/331, 0.6%). The frequency of positive cultures significantly increased (p<0.03) with time. Conclusions: Prolonged hospitalization significantly predisposes to bacterial colonization. The colonization rate of S. aureus and Neisseria spp. increased significantly after one week.

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar as mudanças na flora bacteriana aeróbia da conjuntiva e correlacionar os resultados da cultura com o estado de saúde física e a duração da hospitalização em pacientes em uma unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI). Método: Pacientes que estavam na UTI foram incluídos neste estudo. Culturas conjuntivais foram obtidas nos dias 1, 3, 7 e 14 de todos os pacientes com uma técnica normalizada. Zaragatoas foram semeadas em placas não seletivas (ágar sangue) e enriquecidas (ágar chocolate) dentro de uma hora. Colônias visíveis foram separadas, isoladas, e identificadas utilizando técnicas microbiológicas convencionais. A frequência, identificação e correlação da cultura resulta com achados físicos e a duração da hospitalização foram determinados. Resultados: Um total de 478 culturas (no primeiro dia 270, terceiro dia 156, sétimo dia 36 e dia catorze 16 culturas) foram obtidas de 135 pacientes hospitalizados durante o estudo. Duzentos e oitenta e oito (60,2% de todas as culturas obtidas) culturas foram positivas. Trezentos e trinta e um microrganismos foram isolados a partir dessas culturas. Em todos os grupos, o microrganismo mais frequentemente isolado foi o Staphylococcus species coagulase negativo (n=210/331, 63,5% de todos os microrganismos isolados). Outras bactérias isoladas foram Corynebacterium diphteriae (n=52/331, 15,7%), Staphylococcus aureus (n=26/331, 7,9%), bacilos Gram-negativos que não sejam Pseudomonas (n=14/331, 4,2%), Neisseria species (n=8/331, 2,4%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n=6/331, 1,8%), Haemophilus influenzae (n=7/331, 2,1%), Acinetobacter species (n=6/331, 1,8%), e Streptococcus species (n=2/331, 0,6%). Como o tempo de hospitalização prolongada, a positividade em culturas aumentou significativamente (p<0,03). Conclusões: hospitalização prolongada predispõe significativamente a frequência de colonização bacteriana. A taxa de colonização de S. aureus e Neisseria spp. aumentou significativamente depois de uma semana.

Comportamiento antibacteriano de partículas de cobre frente a microorganismos obtenidos de úlceras crónicas infectadas y su relación con la resistencia a antimicrobianos de uso común / Antibacterial activity of copper salts against microorganisms isolated from chronic infected wounds

Background: The antimicrobial activity of copper (Cu+2) is recognized and used as an antimicrobial agent. Aim: To evaluate the antimicrobial activity of copper against microorganisms obtained from chronic cutaneous wound infections. Material and Methods: Five chemical products that contained copper particles in their composition were tested (zeolite, silica, acetate, nitrate and nanoparticle of copper). The antimicrobial activity against antibiotic resistant strains usually isolated from chronic cutaneous wound infections was determined for two of the products with better performance in copper release. Results: The minimal inhibitory and minimal bactericidal concentrations of copper acetate and nitrate were similar, fluctuating between 400-2,000 µg/ml. Conclusions: The studied copper salts show great potential to be used to control both gram positive and gram negative, antibiotic resistant bacteria isolated from wound infections.

Características clínicas y microbiológicas de la infección intra-abdominal complicada en Colombia: un estudio multicéntrico / Clinical and microbiological characteristics of complicated intra-abdominal infection in Colombia: a multicenter study

Introducción: La infección intra-abdominal complicada adquirida en la comunidad (IIAc-AC) es una causa frecuente de abdomen agudo. Objetivo: Identificar el perfil clínico y microbiológico de la IIAc-AC en cuatro hospitales de Colombia. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, prospectivo entre 07-2012 y 09-2014 en pacientes de 15 o más años con IIAc-AC. Se midieron las frecuencias de variables socio-demográficas, clínicas, diagnóstico, aislamientos y susceptibilidad antimicrobiana del primer cultivo obtenido asépticamente del sitio de infección. Resultados: 192 pacientes incluidos, 62% hombres, edad media 47,3 años; 38,4% con co-morbilidad, 13% hospitalizados en el último año y 9,4% recibieron antimicrobianos en los últimos seis meses. Fueron admitidos 44,3%, por apendicitis 17,7% por peritonitis y 16,7% por perforación intestinal. El 64,1% de las IIAc-AC fue moderada y tratada con ampicilina/sulbactam (SAM) y ertapenem. En 70,8% se aisló al menos un microorganismo en: 65,1% bacilos gramnegativos (80,0% Escherichia coli, 44,8% susceptible a piperacilina/tazobactam, 65,7% a SAM y 11,2% Klebsiella pneumoniae, 85% susceptibles a SAM) y en 16,7% especies grampositivas (28,1% Streptococcus grupo viridans). La mediana de hospitalización fue siete días y 15,1% fallecieron. Conclusión: Escherichia coli y K. pneumoniae en IIAc-AC son los principales microorganismos a cubrir en la terapia empírica y es necesario conocer la susceptibilidad antimicrobiana en cada región para seleccionar un tratamiento empírico adecuado.

Introduction: Complicated community-acquired intra-abdominal infections (CA-cIAI) are a common cause of acute abdomen. Objective: To identify the clinical and microbiology profile of CA-cIAI in four Colombian hospitals. Methods: This is a prospective, descriptive study, between 08-2012 and 09-2014, including patients with CA-cIAI > 15 years. Data collected included: socio-demographic, clinical, diagnosis, and isolates of the first culture obtained aseptically during surgery with antimicrobial susceptibility. Results: 192 patients were included, 62% men, median age 47.3 years. Co-morbidities were present in 38.4%, 13% had been hospitalized in the previous year 13%, and 9.4% had received antibiotics in the last 6 months; 44.3% were admitted for appendicitis, 17.7% for peritonitis and 16.7% for bowel perforation. CA-cIAI were assessed as moderate in 64.1% of the cases and were treated with ampicillin/sulbactam (SAM) and ertapenem. In 70.8% of cases a bacteria was isolated: 65.1% were gramnegative rods (80.0% Escherichia coli, 44.8% of them susceptible to pipercillin/tazobactam, 65.7% to SAM; 11.2 % were K.pneumoniae, 85% was susceptible for SAM; 16.7% were grampositive cocci (28.1% Streptococci viridans group). The median hospital stay was 7 days and 15.1% died. Conclusions: E. coli, K. pneumoniae and S. viridans were the main organisms to consider in an empiric therapy for CA-cIAI and it is important to know the local epidemiology in order to choose the right antibiotic.

Susceptibility oo antibiotics in urinary tract nfections in a secondary care ssetting from 2005-2006 and 2010-2011, in são paulo, Brazil: data from 11,943 urine cultures / Suscetibilidade a antibióticos em infecções de trato urinário em um hospital secundário, 2005-2006 e 2010-2011, em São Paulo, Brasil: dados de 11.943 uroculturas

Introduction: Urinary tract infection (UTI) has a high incidence and recurrence, therefore, treatment is empirical in the majority of cases. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the urine cultures performed at a secondary hospital, during two periods, 2005-2006 and 2010-2011, and to estimate the microbial resistance. Patients and methods: We analyzed 11,943 aerobic urine cultures according to basic demographic data and susceptibility to antibiotics in accordance with the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) for Vitek 1 and 2. Results: Most of our cohort consisted of young adult females that were seen at the Emergency Department. E. coli was the most frequent (70.2%) among the 75 species isolated. Resistance of all isolates was ≥ 20% for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), norfloxacin, nitrofurantoin, cefazolin and nalidixic acid. Although E. coli was more susceptible (resistance ≥ 20% for TMP/SMX and nalidixic acid) among all of the isolates, when classified by the number and percentage of antibiotic resistance. Global resistance to fluoroquinolones was approximately 12%. Risk factors for E. coli were female gender and an age less than 65 years. Men and patients older than 65 years of age, presented more resistant isolates. Extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) were identified in 173 out of 5,722 Gram-negative isolates (3.0%) between 2010 and 2011. Conclusion: E. coli was the most frequent microbe isolated in the urine cultures analyzed in this study. There was a significant evolution of bacterial resistance between the two periods studied. In particular, the rise of bacterial resistance to fluoroquinolones was concerning.

Introdução: A infecção do trato urinário (ITU) tem alta incidência e recorrência, e o tratamento é empírico na maioria dos casos. Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar as culturas de urina realizadas em um hospital secundário, durante dois períodos: 2005-2006 e 2010-2011, para estimar a resistência microbiana. Pacientes e métodos: Foram analisadas 11.943 culturas aeróbicas de urina de acordo com um conjunto de dados demográficos básicos e susceptibilidade aos antibióticos, obedecendo às normas do Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) para Vitek 1 e 2. Resultados: A maioria dos participantes era adulta e jovem atendida no Serviço de Emergência. E. coli foi a mais freqüente (70,2%) entre as 75 espécies isoladas. Resistência de todos os isolados foi ≥ 20% para sulfametoxazol/trimetoprim (SMX/TMP), norfloxacina, nitrofurantoína, cefazolina e ácido nalidíxico, apesar de E. coli ter sido mais suscetível (resistência ≥ 20% apenas para SMX/TMP e ácido nalidíxico) entre todos os isolados, levando em conta a porcentagem de resistência e o número de antibióticos testados. Resistência às fluoroquinolonas foi de 12%. Fatores de risco para E. coli: sexo feminino e idade < 65 anos. Homens e pacientes com mais de 65 anos apresentaram isolados mais resistentes. Beta-lactamases de espectro estendido (ESBL) foram identificadas em 173 de 5.722 isolados Gram-negativos (3,0%), 2010-2011. Conclusões: E. coli foi o isolado mais sensível a antibióticos. Houve uma evolução significativa da resistência antimicrobiana entre os dois períodos. Foi preocupante o aumento da resistência às fluoroquinolonas.

Condição bucal de pacientes cardiopatas internados no Hospital Santa Catarina de Blumenau / Buccal condition of cardiopatic patients admitted at Santa Catarina Hospital in Blumenau

Atualmente, têm-se enfatizado a relação das doenças bucais com as sistêmicas, principalmente as cardiopatias. A higiene bucal dos pacientes internados também é essencial para evitar a proliferação de bactérias e fungos, que, além de prejudicar a saúde bucal e o bem-estar do paciente, pode propiciar outras infecções e doenças sistêmicas. Objetivo: O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar a condição bucal de pacientes cardiopatias internados no Hospital Santa Catarina, de Blumenau/SC, no período de abril de 2011 a janeiro de 2012. Métodos: A condição clínica foi avaliada mediante os seguintes indicadores: presença ou ausência de cálculo e placa visível clinicamente, situação de edentulismo (parcial ou total), presença de sinais clínicos visíveis de inflamação da mucosa gengival, presença de cárie dental e próteses fixas ou removíveis. Resultados: Foram avaliados 150 pacientes, cujas idades variaram entre 21 e 85 anos, sendo 52% do gênero masculino e, destes, 56% apresentaram a cardiopatia fluter atrial. Entre os pacientes, 98% apresentaram algum tipo de edentulismo, parcial ou total. Apenas 2% dos pacientes informaram que realizavam higienização oral três vezes ao dia, sendo observada inflamação gengival em 47,3%, presença de cálculo em 90% e placa visível em 96,66% dos pacientes. Quanto ao uso de próteses, 98% faziam uso de algum tipo: Conclusão: Concluiu-se que a condição de saúde bucal dos pacientes avaliados pode ser considerada alarmante, Com isso, constata-se como é importante a presença de uma equipe de profissionais da odontologia no ambiente hospitalar.

Currently it has been emphasized the link between oral and systemic disease, mainly the heart disease. The oral care of hospitalized patients is also essential to avoid the proliferation of bactéria and fungi, which, in addition to affecting the oral health and well-being of the patient, may provide other infections and systemic diseases. Objective: The purpose of this research was to analyze the buccal condition of cardiac patients at Santa Catarina Hospital of Blumenau - Santa Catarina. Methods: The clinical condition was evaluated using the following indicators: dental plaque and calculus clinically visible, edentulism sistuation (partial or complete), clinical inflammation signs of the gingival mucosa, presence of dental caries and removable and fixed dental prosthesis. Results: 150 patients between 21 and 85 years-old were ealuated, 52% were male and 56% of those had the atrial flutter heart disease. Among the patients, 98% had some kind of partial or complete edentulism. Only 2% of the patients informed that oral hygiene was performed three times a day, gingival inflammation was detected in 47.3%, calculus were detected in 90% and visible plaque in 96.66% of the patients. Regarding the use of dental prothesis, 98% were using some type. It may be concluded that theses patients have na oral health conditions which is very concerning. Conclusion: According to these results it is clear how importante the presence of a dental professional team is in the hospital.

Colangitis bacteriémica en adultos en un hospital general en Chile / Bacteremic colangitis in adults in a general hospital in Chile

Background: Some aspects of bacteremic cholangitis are unknown in Chile. Aim: To gather more information on clinical, microbiological aspects as well as risk factors for ICU admission, recurrence and antimicrobial resistance. Material and Methods: A retrospective research was performed using medical records of adult patients in a general hospital. Results: Between 2006-2012, 22 patients with 29 bacteremic events were identified. Previous cholangitis events were reported by 27.3%, 45.5% had recent admissions and, 50% had used antimicrobial compounds. Coledocholithiasis was the most common cause of obstruction (45.5%) followed by cancer (36.4%). One third developed shock (31%), the only factor associated with ICU admission (OR 30, p < 0.05). In 24 of the 29 bacteremic events, the biliary tract was intervened (82.8%) and in 80.8% during the first 72 hours. Gram negative bacilli were predominant (> 80%) and some infrequent agents such as Staphylococcus warneri, Shewanella spp. and, Aeromonas spp. were observed. Among enteric gram negative bacilli, 29.2% presented fluoroquinolone resistance and, 26.1% resistance to third generation cephalosporins, both associated with previous endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (OR 35 and 16.5, respectively p < 0.05). A favorable response was observed in 93.1% of bacte-remic events but in 31.8% of patients cholangitis recurred with or without bacteremia. Recurrence was associated to recent admission (OR 16.5, p = 0.01) and in all cases occurred before 81 days. In-hospital mortality was 9.1% (n = 2), but in only one case associated to sepsis. Average length of stay (LOS) was 17.8 days. Conclusions: Early intervention of the biliary tract allows a favorable response in patients affected by bacteremic cholangitis, but this condition use intensive care resources, had a prolonged LOS, a recurrent pattern, and is associated with several bacterial species, some of them resistant.

Introducción: La información sobre los cuadros de colangitis aguda bacteriémica es fragmentaria en Chile. Objetivo: Analizar las características clínicas, evolución, microbiología y factores de riesgo asociados a ingreso a UCI, recurrencia y resistencia antimicrobiana. Pacientes y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo descriptivo con adultos atendidos entre el 2006 y el 2012 en un hospital general. Resultados: Se identificaron 22 pacientes con 29 episodios de bacteriemia. Un 27,3% tenía historia previa de colangitis aguda, 45,5% de hospitalizaciones en los últimos tres meses y 50% recibió previamente antimicrobianos. La coledocolitiasis fue la causa más frecuente de obstrucción (45,5%) y las neoplasias ocuparon el segundo lugar (36,4%). El 31% desarrolló shock hemodinámico y fue el factor determinante para ingresar a la UCI (OR 30, p < 0,01) En 24 de los 29 eventos de colangitis bacteriémica se efectuaron intervenciones sobre la vía biliar (VB) o complicaciones asociadas (82,8%), las que se realizaron predominantemente en las primeras 72 h de hospitalización (80,8%). Las especies bacterianas mayoritarias fueron bacilos gramnegativos entéricos o no fermentadores (> 80% del total) y se observaron agentes inusuales como Staphylococcus warneri, Shewanella spp y Aeromonas spp. Entre los bacilos gramnegativos entéricos, 29,2% presentó resistencia a fluoroquinolonas y 26,1 % a cefalosporinas de tercera generación, fenómenos asociados al antecedente de colangiografía endoscópica retrógrada (OR 35 y 16,5 respectivamente, p < 0,05). El 93,1% de los eventos de bacteriemia tuvo una respuesta favorable pero 31,8% de los pacientes presentó recu-rrencia de colangitis, con o sin bacteriemia, un hecho asociado a hospitalización reciente (OR 16,5, p = 0,01) y que se dio en todos los casos antes de 81 días. Dos pacientes con cáncer fallecieron en la misma hospitalización (9,1%), aunque uno solo de ellos en forma atribuible a la infección. La estadía hospitalaria promedio fue de 17,8 días. Conclusiones: Con la intervención precoz sobre la VB, los cuadros de colangitis bacteriémica han logrado una baja letalidad pero usan recursos intensivos, tienen una estadía prolongada, un patrón recurrente, pueden estar asociados a cáncer y a una diversidad de agentes bacterianos, algunos de ellos resistentes.

Gram-negative osteomyelitis: clinical and microbiological profile

INTRODUCTION: Despite the growing interest in the study of Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) infections, very little information on osteomyelitis caused by GNB is available in the medical literature. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: To assess clinical and microbiological features of 101 cases of osteomyelitis caused by GNB alone, between January 2007 and January 2009, in a reference center for the treatment of high complexity traumas in the city of São Paulo. RESULTS: Most patients were men (63 percent), with median age of 42 years, affected by chronic osteomyelitis (43 percent) or acute osteomyelitis associated to open fractures (32 percent), the majority on the lower limbs (71 percent). The patients were treated with antibiotics as inpatients for 40 days (median) and for 99 days (median) in outpatient settings. After 6 months follow-up, the clinical remission rate was around 60 percent, relapse 19 percent, amputation 7 percent, and death 5 percent. Nine percent of cases were lost to follow-up. A total of 121 GNB was isolated from 101 clinical samples. The most frequently isolated pathogens were Enterobacter sp. (25 percent), Acinetobacter baumannii (21 percent) e Pseudomonas aeruginosa (20 percent). Susceptibility to carbapenems was about 100 percent for Enterobacter sp., 75 percent for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 60 percent for Acinetobacter baumannii. CONCLUSION: Osteomyelitis caused by GNB remains a serious therapeutic challenge, especially when associated to nonfermenting bacteria. We emphasize the need to consider these agents in diagnosed cases of osteomyelitis, so that an ideal antimicrobial treatment can be administered since the very beginning of the therapy.

Comparação entre diferentes métodos de coleta para avaliação microbiológica de pacientes com rinossinusite crônica / Comparing different methods used to collect material for a microbiological evaluation of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis

There is still controversy on which is the best method to collect the secretion directly from the middle meatus or maxillary sinus in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. AIM: To evaluate the prevalence of bacteria in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and compare the suction trap collector to direct aspiration attached to a syringe for the microbiological analysis of these secretions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective study involving 31 patients who underwent endoscopically guided maxillary secretion aspiration by two different methods (aspiration with the collector tube "suction trap" and aspiration with the use of a catheter connected to a syringe), to determine the microbiological diagnosis and to compare the two methods used. RESULTS: microorganisms grew samples collected from 55 percent of the 31 patients. The most frequent bacteria were S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other aerobic Gram-negative bacteria. The results from cultures were similar between the two methods in 71 percent of patients. CONCLUSION: S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other aerobic Gram-negative bacteria make up the main flora in the maxillary sinus of the patients. There was good correlation between the microbiological results obtained by using a catheter attached to a syringe and the "suction trap" nasal collector.

Atualmente existe controvérsia sobre qual a melhor forma de se coletar secreção do meato médio ou seio maxilar em pacientes com rinossinusite crônica. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência de bactérias em pacientes com rinossinusite crônica e comparar o método de aspiração direta com seringa e coletor estéril como forma de análise microbiológica desses pacientes. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo em 31 pacientes submetidos à coleta de secreção do seio maxilar sob visão endoscópica por dois métodos diferentes (aspiração com coletor estéril de secreção nasal "suction trap" e aspiração usando cateter com seringa acoplada), para determinação do diagnóstico microbiológico e comparação dos métodos utilizados. RESULTADOS: Dos 31 pacientes estudados, o crescimento de microrganismos foi observado em apenas 55 por cento das amostras cultivadas. Os microorganismos mais frequentes foram Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa e outras bactérias aeróbicas Gram-negativas. Os resultados das culturas foram coincidentes entre os dois métodos em 71 por cento dos pacientes. CONCLUSÃO: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa e outras bactérias aeróbicas Gram-negativas constituem a flora predominante em pacientes com rinossinusite crônica. Houve correlação satisfatória entre os achados microbiológicos obtidos pelo uso de cateter acoplado à seringa com o do coletor nasal do tipo "suction trap".

Achado de bactérias selecionadas em crianças de Trinidad com doença amigdaliana crônica / Selected bacterial recovery in Trinidadian children with chronic tonsillar disease

Faringoamigdalite na população pediátrica é largamente tratada com antibióticos. OBJETIVO: Estudar a microflora presente na superfície e no núcleo de amígdalas após adenoamigdalectomia eletiva em crianças. MÉTODO: Amígdalas de 102 crianças de Trinidad foram prospectivamente estudadas por meio de culturas e identificações bacteriológicas feitas a partir de amostras das superfícies e núcleos de suas amígdalas entre 2005-2006. RESULTADOS: A partir de 360 amígdalas, foram isolados Streptococcus spp. (51,3 por cento), Staphylococcus spp. (42,3 por cento) e Gram-Negativos (6,4 por cento). A identificação de estafilococos e estreptococos tanto na superfície quanto no núcleo foi semelhante (p>0,05). Encontramos mais (p<0,001) Streptococcus spp. nas superfícies (82,2 por cento) do que nos núcleos (63,3 por cento); a prevalência de estreptococos alfa-hemolíticos foi maior (p<0,001) do que aquela de estreptococos beta-hemolíticos nas superfícies (74,4 por cento vs. 18,6 por cento) do que nos núcleos (58,9 por cento vs. 13,7 por cento). Não houve concordância entre superfícies e núcleos com relação a estreptococos (p<0,0004) e estreptococos alfa-hemolíticos (p<0,007). Estreptococos beta-hemolíticos foram mais identificados (p<0,05) em crianças dentre 6-16 anos do que naquelas entre 1-5 anos de idade (31 por cento e 23,8 por cento vs 12,5 por cento e 8 por cento). A prevalência de S. pyogenes na superfície e no núcleo foi de (84,6 por cento vs 70 por cento) e (50,0 por cento vs 25,0 por cento) em crianças de maior faixa etária e crianças mais novas, respectivamente. Klebsiella spp. (6,6 por cento, 2,2 por cento), Proteus (4,4 por cento, 4,4 por cento) e Pseudomonas (4,4 por cento, 1,1 por cento) cresceram nas superfícies e núcleos, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: As superfícies amigdalianas tinham mais estreptococos e estreptococos hemolíticos do que seus núcleos. Crianças mais velhas tiveram mais estreptococos beta-hemolíticos, e são altamente colonizadoras...

Pharyngotonsillitis in children is widely treated with antibiotics. AIM: To examine tonsil surface and core microflora following elective adenotonsillectomy in children. METHODS: Tonsils of 102 Trinidadian children were prospectively examined for surface and core bacteriological culture and identification between 2005-2006. RESULTS: Tonsils (360) yielded 800 isolates of Streptococcus spp. (51.3 percent), Staphylococcus spp. (42.3 percent) and Gram-negative genera (6.4 percent). Surface and core recovery of staphylococci and streptococci were similar (p>0.05). More (p<0.001) surfaces (82.2 percent) than cores (63.3 percent) grew Streptococcus spp.; α-haemolytic Streptococcus prevalence was higher (p<0.001) than ß-haemolytic Streptococcus on surfaces (74.4 percent vs. 18.6 percent) than cores (58.9 percent vs. 13.7 percent). Surfaces and cores were not concordant for streptococci (p<0.0004) and α-haemolytic Streptococcus (p<0.007). Surface and core ß-haemolytic Streptococcus yield was higher (p<0.05) in 6-16 than 1-5 year olds (31 percent and 23.8 percent vs 12.5 percent and 8 percent). S. pyogenes surface and core prevalence was (84.6 percent vs 70 percent) and (50.0 percent vs 25.0 percent) in older and younger children respectively. Klebsiella spp. (6.6 percent, 2.2 percent), Proteus (4.4 percent, 4.4 percent) and Pseudomonas (4.4 percent, 1.1 percent) grew on surfaces and cores respectively. CONCLUSION: Tonsil surfaces yield higher surface than core carriage for streptococci overall and for α haemolytic streptococci. Older children grow more β-haemolytic streptococci and are high colonizers of S. pyogenes. Studies probing the mechanisms of streptococcal adhesions in Trinidadian children are suggested.

Epidemiología y factores de riesgo de mortalidad de las bacteriemias intrahospitalarias por bacilos gramnegativos / Nosocomial bloodstream infections caused by gram-negative bacilli: epidemiology and risk factors for mortality

Nosocomial bacteremia is a major cause of hospital infection, associated with high rate of morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospital stay and higher costs. However, few prospective studies analyse the prognostic factors associated with mortality of gramnegative rods bloodstream infections in hospital wards outside of intensive care units. A prospective/descriptive study was conducted from March to December 2006. All patients with nosocomial-acquired bloodstream infection due to gramnegative rods were included. Epidemiology and clinical features were analysed as potential prognostic factors for mortality. During the study period, 84 cases were detected, being A. baumannii, Burkholderia sp and E. coli the most frequent isolates, with a mortality of 48 percent>. Bacteremia derived from a high-mortality associated septic focus (RR 4.9, IC95 percent> 1.3 - 18.8) and admissionto intensive care unit (RR 4.78, IC95 percent> 1.7- 13.1) were independent variables associated with mortality. Inappropriate empirical antibiotic treatment was not associated with greater risk of mortality. Nosocomial gramnegative bloodstream infections in our series were mainly due to non-fermentative bacilli and were associated with high mortality rates when their origin was a high risk septic focus or the patient was admitted to intensive care unit.

La bacteriemia nosocomial es una causa importante de infección intrahospitalaria, asociada a alta morbi-mortalidad, pero pocos estudios examinan en forma prospectiva las bacteriemias por bacilos grammne-gativos (BGN) más allá de las áreas de cuidados intensivos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo desde marzo a diciembre del 2006, reclutando todos los pacientes con bacteriemia por BGN de origen intra-hospitalario. Se analiza la epidemiología y características clínicas como potenciales factores pronósticos de mortalidad. En el período de estudio se detectaron 84 casos (los más frecuentes A. baumannii, Burkholderia sp. y E. coli), con una mortalidad de 48 por ciento. La bacteriemia derivada de un foco infecciosos asociada a alta mortalidad (RR 4.9, IC95 por ciento 1,3-18,8) y la internación en UCI (RR 4,78, IC95 por ciento 1,7-13,1) fueron variables independientes predictoras de mortalidad. El tratamiento antimicrobiano empírico inadecuado no se asoció a mayor mortalidad. La bacteriemia nosocomial por BGN en nuestra serie se debió principalmente a bacilos no fermentadores y ésta se asoció con alta mortalidad cuando el origen fue un foco de alto riesgo o el paciente se encontraba internado en la UCI.