Position statement of the Spanish Society of Paediatric Infectious diseases on the diagnosis and treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) is a bacterium with particular characteristics that give rise to a broad clinical spectrum, being respiratory infection the most frequent presentation. Infection by M. pneumoniae occurs in cyclical epidemics, and paediatricians in Spain have noticed an increase in cases since January 2024, establishing hospital registers to collect surveillance data (as it is not a notifiable disease in Spain). The diagnosis of infection by M. pneumoniae is made through serological testing and/or the detection of genetic material by means of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Neither methods can differentiate between colonization and active infection, so a precise diagnosis is not possible and testing should only be requested in the case of high clinical suspicion. The role of antibiotherapy in infection by M. pneumoniae in its different clinical variants is not well defined. Most infections are self-limiting and mild, and there is insufficient evidence to support the use of antibiotherapy in these cases. Antibiotic treatment is justified in patients with risk factors for the development of severe disease (Down syndrome, anatomical or functional asplenia, immunosuppression), in hospitalized patients with respiratory infection and in patients with moderate or severe extrapulmonary forms. Taking into account aspects concerning the rational use of antimicrobials, the treatment of choice would be clarithromycin, with azithromycin as an alternative, reserving the use of doxycycline and levofloxacin for cases of antimicrobial resistance and/or infections of the central nervous system.

Duration of severe and moderate symptoms in pharyngitis by cause.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the cause of acute pharyngitis and determine the duration of severe and moderate symptoms based on the aetiology. DESIGN: Prospective observational study. SITE: One urban health care centre. PARTICIPANTS: Patients aged 15 or older with acute pharyngitis were included. INTERVENTIONS: Bacterial identification was carried out in the microbiology lab using MALDI-TOF in two throat samples. Patients received a symptom diary to return after one week. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Number of days with severe symptoms, scoring 5 or more in any of the symptoms included in the symptom diary, and moderate symptoms, scoring 3 or more. RESULTS: Among the 149 patients recruited, beta-haemolytic streptococcus group A (GABHS) was the most common aetiology. Symptoms and signs alone as well as the mean Centor score cannot distinguish between GABHS and other bacterial causes in patients with acute pharyngitis. However, there was a trend indicating that infections caused by Streptococcus dysgalactiae and Streptococcus agalactiae presented more severe symptoms, whereas infections attributed to the Streptococcus anginosus group, Fusobacterium spp., and those where oropharyngeal microbiota was isolated tended to have milder symptoms. S. dysgalactiae infections showed a trend towards longer severe and moderate symptom duration. CONCLUSION: GABHS was the most prevalent, but group C streptococcus caused more severe and prolonged symptoms.

Screening of essential oils against oxacillin - resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from bovine mastitis / Screening de aceites esenciales frente a Staphylococcus aureus oxacilino - resistentes extraidos de aislados de mastitis bovina

Bovine mastitis is a disease wi th far - reaching consequences for the dairy industry. Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogen that is especially resistant to antibiotics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the essential oils Lippia citriodora (Lam.), Thy mus vulgaris (L), and a mixture of the essential oils Lippia citriodora and Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v), against isolates of oxacillin - resistant Staphylococcus aureus (n=15) of positive cases of bovine mastitis. For the statistical analysis, the IBM SPSS s tatistical package was used. The mixture of essential oils ( Lippia citriodora and Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v)) obtained the most significant antimicrobial activity in relation to pure essential oils. It is therefore concluded that the mixture of these oils boosts their antimicrobial activity ( p <0.05). The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration of this mixture for the total isolations was 12 µL/L and 25 µL/mL, respectively.

La mastitis bovina es una enfermedad de gran impacto para la industria lechera. El Staphylococcus aureus es uno de los principales patógenos, especialmente aquellos resistentes a los antibióticos. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la actividad antimicrobiana de los aceites esenciales de Lippia citriodora (Lam.), Thymus vulgaris (L), y una mezcla de aceites esenciales de Lippia citriodora y Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v), frente a aislamientos clínicos de Staph ylococcus aureus oxacilino - resistentes (n=15) de mastitis bovina. Se utilizó p rograma estadístico IBM SPSS y se concluyó la diferencia significativa a un p <0.05. La mezcla de aceites esenciales ( Lippia citriodora y Thymus vulgaris (50/50 v/v)), obtuvo la m ayor actividad antimicrobiana en relación a los aceites esenciales puros, se concluye que la mezcla de estos aceites potencia su actividad antimicrobiana ( p <0.019). La concentración mínima inhibitoria y bactericida de esta mezcla fue del 12 µL/mL y 25 µL/m L, respectivamente, y puede ser una alternativa terapéutica.

Bronchiectasis not due to cystic fibrosis. / Bronquiectasias no debidas a fibrosis quística.

Bronchiectasis is a clinical-radiological condition composed of irreversible bronchial dilation due to inflammation and infection of the airways, which causes respiratory symptoms, usually productive cough and infectious exacerbations. Bronchiectasis can have multiple causes, both pulmonary and extrapulmonary, and its clinical presentation is very heterogenous. Its prevalence is unknown, although up to 35-50% of severe COPD and 25% of severe asthma present them, so their underdiagnosis is evident. Chronic bacterial bronchial infection is common, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the pathogen that has been found to imply a worse prognosis. Treatment of bronchiectasis has three fundamental characteristics: it must be multidisciplinary (involvement of several specialties), pyramidal (from primary care to the most specialized units) and multidimensional (management of all aspects that make up the disease).

A quality improvement intervention on surgical prophylaxis impact in antibiotic consumption and cost in selected surgical procedures.

BACKGROUND: Improper compliance with antibiotic prophylaxis (AP) in surgery is associated with an increased risk of surgical site infection (SSI), and impacts the efficiency of healthcare. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the impact of an intervention in compliance with AP in selected surgical procedures and its effect on antibiotic consumption and cost. METHODS: A prospective interventional study was performed in a community hospital from January to December 2022. The baseline period was considered January-April 2022 and the intervention period May-December 2022. All patients who underwent cesarean section, appendectomies, hernia surgery, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), abdominoplasty, and cholecystectomy during the study period were selected. The intervention includes staff education, pharmacy interventions, monitoring the quality of prescriptions and feedback, and improved role of anesthesia staff, and department champions. RESULTS: The study involved 192 and 617 surgical procedures in the baseline and intervention periods respectively. The compliance with timing, selection, dose, and discontinuation achieved 100%, 99.2%, and 97.6% from baseline figures of 92.7%, 95.8%, and 81.3%, respectively. The antibiotic consumption was reduced by 55.1% during the intervention with a higher contribution of other antibiotics (94.1% reduction) in comparison with antibiotics as per policy (31.2% reduction). The cost was reduced by 47.2% (antibiotic as per policy 31.9%, other antibiotics 94.2%). CONCLUSION: The implemented strategy was effective in improving the quality of antibiotic prophylaxis with a significant impact in reducing antibiotic consumption and cost.

Evaluation of FebriDx® for the management of children with acute febrile respiratory infection.

INTRODUCTION: Acute respiratory infections (ARI) are a common cause of inappropriate antibiotic prescription (ATB) in pediatrics. FebriDx® is a rapid diagnostic test that differentiates between viral and bacterial infections. The objective is to analyse the impact of FebriDx® on ATB prescription when managing febrile ARI. METHODS: Prospective study carried out in patients aged 1-<18 years with febrile ARI in the emergency department. FebriDx® was performed and the impact on management was evaluated at follow-up. RESULTS: A total of 216 patients were included. Clinical assessment and FebriDx® result coincided coincided in 174 (80.5%) cases. A modification of the initial therapeutic plan was made in 22 (52.4%) of the 42 discordant ones (10.2% of the overall patients). In pneumonia the impact was 34.5%; in all cases it involved not prescribing ATB. CONCLUSIONS: FebriDx® could be a useful tool in the management of pediatric patients with febrile ARI to optimize ATB prescription.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistente a Rifampicina en la provincia de El Oro-Ecuador / Rifampicin-resistant mycobacterium tuberculosis in the province of Oro-Ecuador / Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistente à Rifampicina na província de Oro-Equador

Introducción. La tuberculosis es una de las enfermedades infecciosas más antiguas y comunes, causada por una bacteria en forma de bastón, o bacilo, llamada Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Esta enfermedad es tratable con antibióticos, los cuales se prescriben durante meses debido a la lenta tasa de crecimiento de las bacterias. Entre los fármacos utilizados la Rifampicina se utiliza terapéuticamente para combatir esta enfermedad, sin embargo, algunos pacientes pueden presentar o desarrollar resistencia a este antibiótico, por lo que, es importante completar el tratamiento para evitar el desarrollo de bacterias farmacorresistentes y la re ocurrencia de la enfermedad. Objetivo. Caracterizar el Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistente a Rifampicina en la provincia de El Oro. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio con un enfoque cuantitativo, de tipo descriptivo y no experimental. La muestra se obtuvo de la base de datos del laboratorio clínico del área de micobacterias del Hospital Teófilo Dávila en el período 2019 - 2022, quienes luego de aplicar la prueba molecular rápida GeneXpert MTB/RIF o ULTRA determinaron que 48 pacientes presentaron resistencia a la Rifampicina en el tratamiento de la Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Resultados. El reporte del laboratorio evidenció que en el año 2022 se estableció el mayor número de casos de resistencia a Rifampicina para el tratamiento de Mycobacterium tuberculosis, alcanzando el 33,3%; el grupo etario de mayor afectación fue el adulto joven (20 a 49 años) con un 52,1%, y con una frecuencia elevada de 66,7% el sexo masculino. La comorbilidad con mayor predominio estuvo en los pacientes diagnosticados Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 con un 27,1% y la condición de ingreso de pacientes con resistencia a Rifampicina, son de nuevos casos con 75%. Conclusiones. En la provincia de El Oro, entre el año 2019 - 2022 se presentaron 48 casos resistentes al antibiótico Rifampicina en el tratamiento de la TB, entre ellos el 75% corresponden a una resistencia inicial, es decir, pacientes que no fueron tratados contra la enfermedad, el otro 25% engloba a aquellos pacientes que recayeron en la enfermedad, fracaso o perdida de seguimiento por parte del laboratorio de vigilancia, área de micobacterias del Hospital Teófilo Dávila.

Introduction. Tuberculosis is one of the oldest and most common infectious diseases, caused by a rod-shaped bacterium, or bacillus, called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This disease is treatable with antibiotics, which are prescribed for months due to the slow growth rate of the bacteria. Among the drugs used, Rifampicin is used therapeutically to combat this disease, however, some patients may present or develop resistance to this antibiotic, therefore, it is important to complete the treatment to avoid the development of drug-resistant bacteria and the reoccurrence of the disease. Objective. To characterize the Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistant to Rifampicin in the province of El Oro. Materials and methods. A quantitative, descriptive and non-experimental study was carried out. The sample was obtained from the database of the clinical laboratory of the mycobacteria area of the Teófilo Dávila Hospital in the period 2019 - 2022, who after applying the rapid molecular test GeneXpert MTB/RIF or ULTRA determined that 48 patients presented resistance to Rifampicin in the treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Results. The laboratory report showed that in the year 2022 the highest number of cases of resistance to Rifampicin for the treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was established, reaching 33.3%; the age group most affected was young adults (20 to 49 years) with 52.1%, and with a high frequency of 66.7% in the male sex. The most prevalent comorbidity was in patients diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus type 2 with 27.1% and the condition of admission of patients with resistance to Rifampicin, are new cases with 75%. Conclusions. In the province of El Oro, between 2019 - 2022 there were 48 cases resistant to the antibiotic Rifampicin in the treatment of TB, among them 75% correspond to an initial resistance, that is, patients who were not treated against the disease, the other 25% encompasses those patients who relapsed in the disease, failure or loss of follow-up by the surveillance laboratory, mycobacteria area of the Teófilo Dávila Hospital.

Introdução. A tuberculose é uma das doenças infecciosas mais antigas e mais comuns, causada por uma bactéria em forma de bastonete, ou bacilo, chamada Mycobacterium tuberculosis. A doença pode ser tratada com antibióticos, que são prescritos por meses devido à lenta taxa de crescimento da bactéria. Entre os medicamentos utilizados, a rifampicina é usada terapeuticamente para combater essa doença; no entanto, alguns pacientes podem desenvolver resistência a esse antibiótico, por isso é importante concluir o tratamento para evitar o desenvolvimento de bactérias resistentes aos medicamentos e a recorrência da doença. Objetivo. Caracterizar o Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistente à rifampicina na província de El Oro. Materiais e métodos. Foi realizado um estudo quantitativo, descritivo e não experimental. A amostra foi obtida do banco de dados do laboratório clínico da área de micobactérias do Hospital Teófilo Dávila no período de 2019 a 2022, que, após aplicar o teste molecular rápido GeneXpert MTB/RIF ou ULTRA, determinou que 48 pacientes apresentavam resistência à rifampicina no tratamento de Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Resultados. O laudo laboratorial demonstrou que o maior número de casos de resistência à Rifampicina para o tratamento do Mycobacterium tuberculosis se estabeleceu em 2022, atingindo 33,3%; a faixa etária mais afetada foi a de adultos jovens (20-49 anos) com 52,1%, e com alta frequência de 66,7% no sexo masculino. A comorbidade mais prevalente foi em pacientes diagnosticados com Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 com 27,1% e a condição de admissão de pacientes com resistência à Rifampicina, são casos novos com 75%. Conclusões. Na província de El Oro, entre 2019 e 2022, houve 48 casos resistentes ao antibiótico Rifampicina no tratamento da TB, entre eles 75% correspondem a uma resistência inicial, ou seja, pacientes que não foram tratados contra a doença, os outros 25% incluem aqueles pacientes que recaíram na doença, falha ou perda de monitoramento pelo laboratório de vigilância, área de micobactérias do Hospital Teófilo Dávila.

Consumo de antibióticos en los primeros meses de vida: un estudio transversal / Antibiotic consumption in the first months of life: A cross-sectional study

Introducción: Los factores y patrones asociados al consumo de antibióticos en los lactantes no están claros. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar la incidencia acumulada de consumo de antibióticos desde el nacimiento hasta los 16meses e identificar los factores asociados al consumo de antibióticos entre lactantes de 4 a 16meses. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal en 2016 que incluyó una muestra de la población de 18.882 mujeres españolas de Galicia que habían dado a luz a un niño vivo entre el 1 de septiembre de 2015 y el 31 de agosto de 2016. Se calculó la incidencia acumulada de consumo de antibióticos a partir de los resultados de la entrevista a la madre sobre el consumo del lactante desde el nacimiento hasta los 14meses; no se estimó a los 15 y 16meses debido al reducido tamaño muestral. Para valorar las características asociadas al consumo de antibióticos se anidó en el estudio transversal un estudio de casos y controles emparejando por mes de nacimiento, un control por caso. Resultados: La incidencia acumulada de consumo de antibióticos entre los lactantes de 0 a 14meses de edad aumentó del 7,5% al 66,0%. Para el estudio de casos y controles, se obtuvo información de 1.852 casos y de 1.852 controles. La asistencia a la guardería (OR: 3,8 [IC95%: 3,2-4,6]), tener hermanos/as mayores (OR: 1,8 [IC95%: 1,6-2,1]), las consultas sanitarias en la clínica privada (OR: 1,6 [IC95%:1,4-2,0]) o haber estado expuesto al humo ambiental de tabaco (OR: 1,3 [IC95%: 1,1-1,6]) se asociaron con un mayor riesgo de consumo de antibióticos. Tener madres de entre 30 y 39años o de 40años y más en el momento del parto se asoció con un menor riesgo de consumo de antibióticos (OR: 0,8 [IC95%: 0,7-1,0] y OR: 0,6 [IC95%: 0,5-0,8], respectivamente).(UA)

Introduction: The factors and patterns associated with antibiotic consumption in infants are unclear. Our aim was to assess the cumulative incidence of antibiotic consumption from birth to 16 months and identify factors associated with antibiotic consumption among infants aged 4 to 16 months. Material and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in 2016 in a sample of 18,882 women from Galicia, Spain, who had given birth to a live child between September 1, 2015 and August 31, 2016. We calculated the cumulative incidence of antibiotic consumption based on maternal reports regarding the infant's consumption from birth to 14 months obtained through interviews; we did not estimate consumption at ages 15 and 16 months due to the small sample size. To assess which factors were associated with antibiotic consumption, we carried out a nested case-control study matching cases and controls for birth month on a 1:1 ratio. Results: The cumulative incidence of antibiotic consumption among infants aged 0 to 14 months increased from 7.5% to 66.0%. The case-control study included data for 1,852 cases and 1,852 controls. Daycare attendance (OR: 3.8 [95%CI: 3.2-4.6]), having older siblings (OR: 1.8 [95%CI: 1.6-2.1]), health care visits to private clinics (OR: 1.6 [95%CI: 1.4-2.0]), and passive smoking (OR: 1.3 [95%CI: 1.1-1.6]) were associated with an increased probability of antibiotic consumption. Maternal age between 30-39 years or 40 years and over at the time of birth was associated with a decreased probability of antibiotic consumption (OR: 0.8 [95%CI, 0.7-1.0] and OR: 0.6 [95%CI: 0.5-0.8], respectively). Conclusions: Some of the factors associated with antibiotic consumption in infants are modifiable and should be considered in the development of public health measures aimed at reducing antibiotic consumption.(AU)

Identificación y caracterización de herramientas para evaluar la alergia a las penicilinas: Revisión estructurada / Identification and characterization of tools used to assess penicillin allergy: structured review

Introducción: Las reacciones alérgicas son uno de los problemas de seguridad más graves asociadas al uso de medicamentos, siendo la alergia a los antibióticos betalactámicos la más prevalente. Las pruebas de alergia a las penicilinas pueden ayudar a identificar pacientes hospitalizados y ambulatorios que podrían tolerar y usar de manera segura este grupo de antibióticos y evitar rótulos que limiten el uso de antibióticos betalactámicos por tiempo indefinido. Objetivo: Identificar las herramientas disponibles en la literatura para valorar el antecedente de alergia a las penicilinas y proponer una herramienta que consolide la información extraída. Metodología: Revisión estructurada en PubMed/MEDLINE entre 1 junio 2015 hasta 30 noviembre 2022, utilizando los términos MeSH: (((“skin tests”[MeSH Terms]) OR (“skin irritancy tests”[MeSH Terms])) AND (“penicillins”[All Fields])) AND (“drug hypersensitivity”[MeSH Terms]). Publicaciones en inglés y español con acceso a texto completo y estudios realizados en humanos, sobre herramientas disponibles para evaluar la alergia a penicilinas fueron incluidos. Resultados: Se identificaron201 artículos, de los cuales se incluyeron 108. Dentro de las herramientas para evaluar la alergia a las penicilinas se identificaron: a) pruebas in vivo: pruebas cutáneas, pruebas de provocación oral, pruebas del parche; y b) pruebas in vitro: pruebas de IgE específica, determinación de triptasa, histamina. De los 1181 pacientes reportados con alergia a las penicilinas, sólo el 2 % de ellos se confirmó la presencia de alergia. Conclusión: Las pruebas cutáneas y de provocación oral sumado a algunas combinaciones in vivo/in vitro, fueron las herramientas más utilizadas para evaluar la alergia a las penicilinas. (AU)

Introduction: Allergic reactions are one of the most serious safety problems associated with the use of medications, with allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics being the most prevalent. In fact, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) states that penicillin allergy testing can help identify inpatients and outpatients who could safely tolerate and use this group of antibiotics and avoid labels that limit the use of beta-lactam antibiotics indefinitely. Objective: To identify the tools available in the literature to assess the history of allergy to penicillins and propose a tool that consolidates the information extracted. Methodology: Structured review on PubMed/MEDLINE between June 1, 2015 until November 30, 2022; using the search terms MeSH: (((“skin tests”[MeSH Terms]) OR (“skin irritancy tests”[MeSH Terms])) AND (“penicillins”[All Fields])) AND (“drug hypersensitivity”[MeSH Terms]). Papers in English and Spanish with access to full text and human trials, regarding available tools used to evaluate penicillin allergies were included. Results: A total of 201 articles were identified, of which after an independent evaluation, 108 were included. Among the tools to evaluate penicillin allergy, in vivo tests were identified: skin tests, oral provocation tests, patch tests and in vitro tests: specific IgE tests, determination of tryptase, histamine, T lymphocytes and basophilic activation tests. Of the patients (1181) reported with penicillin allergy, 905 (77 %) had their allergy assessed with skin testing or oral challenge tests, and only 2 % of them had a confirmed allergic reaction. Conclusion: Skin tests and oral provocation tests added to some in vivo/in vitro combinations were the most used tools to evaluate penicillin allergy. (AU)

Diagnóstico y tratamiento de abscesos hepáticos, a propósito de tres casos

El absceso hepático tiene baja incidencia, pero alta mortalidad. Su diagnóstico suele ser tardío dada la variabilidad de presentaciones clínicas. Presentamos tres casos en mujeres, de los cuales dos se manifestaron con síndrome febril con microbiología no precisada, mientras que el tercero con shock séptico secundario a colangitis, aislándose Escherichia coli. Todos fueron manejados con antibioticoterapia endovenosa empírica y drenaje quirúrgico, uno vía laparoscópica, dos percutáneos y uno asociado a una colangio-pancreatografía retrógrada endoscópica. La elección terapéutica se determina de acuerdo a la presencia de rotura, tamaño y/o loculaciones del absceso, combinando antibioticoterapia con métodos de drenaje quirúrgico mínimamente invasivos. Se contrasta y discute la bibliografía disponible, destacando la necesidad de investigaciones actualizadas en Chile.

Liver abscess has low incidence but high mortality. Its diagnosis is often delayed due to the variability of clinical presentations. We present three cases in women, two of which manifested with a febrile syndrome with unspecified microbiology, while the third presented with septic shock secondary to cholangitis, with Escherichia coli isolated. All cases were managed with empirical intravenous antibiotic therapy and surgical drainage, one through laparoscopy, two through percutaneous methods, and one associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. The therapeutic approach is determined based on the presence of rupture, size, and/or loculations of the abscess, combining antibiotic therapy with minimally invasive surgical drainage methods. We discuss the available literature, emphasizing the need for updated research in Chile.

Uso de antimicrobianos en la unidad de cuidados intensivos de un hospital público de Loreto / Use of antimicrobials in the intensive care unit of a Loreto public hospital

RESUMEN Introducción. El uso inapropiado de antimicrobianos en las unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI) contribuye a la resistencia bacteriana. Objetivo. El propósito del presente estudio fue medir el uso y tipo de antimicrobianos en los pacientes hospitalizados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos del Hospital Regional de Loreto (HRL). Métodos. Estudio de tipo descriptivo. Revisamos 120 historias clínicas en pacientes de UCI-HRL desde enero a junio 2023. Resultados. La mayoría de los pacientes usaron antimicrobianos (74,2%), indicados por shock séptico (42,7%), de 1 a 3 antimicrobianos (93,2%), con terapia de 1 a 3 días (45%). Del total de antimicrobianos usados, la mayor proporción fueron bactericidas 89 (90,4%), de la familia de cefalosporinas (33,1%) y carbapenémicos (23,5%); los fármacos más empleados fueron ceftriaxona (26,5%) y meropenem (21,1%) por vía intravenosa (90,4%). Conclusión. La mayor proporción de pacientes hospitalizados usan antimicrobianos de la familia de cefalosporinas y carbapenémicos.

ABSTRACT Introduction. Inappropriate use of antimicrobials in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) contributes to bacterial resistance. Objective. The purpose of the present study was to measure the use and type of antimicrobials in patients hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit of the Loreto Regional Hospital (HRL). Methods. Descriptive study. We reviewed 120 medical records in ICU-HRL patients from January to June 2023. Results. Most patients used antimicrobials (74.2%), indicated for septic shock (42.7%), 1 to 3 antimicrobials (93.2%), with therapy of 1 to 3 days (45%). Of the total number of antimicrobials used, the greatest proportion were bactericides 89 (90.4%), from the cephalosporin family (33.1%) and carbapenemics (23.5%); the most commonly used drugs were ceftriaxone (26.5%) and meropenem (21.1%) by the intravenous route (90.4%). Conclusion. The highest proportion of hospitalized patients use antimicrobials of the cephalosporin and carbapenemics family.

El farmacéutico clínico en el abordaje del paciente con sospecha de alergia a beta-lactámicos: una revisión sistemática / The role of clinical pharmacists in patients with suspected allergy to B-lactams: A systematic review

Objetivo analizar el papel desempeñado por el farmacéutico clínico y su impacto en el ámbito de los programas de optimización de antimicrobianos ante la sospecha de alergia a antibióticos beta-lactámicos.Método se realizaron 2 búsquedas bibliográficas independientes. Se encontraron un total de 35 artículos incluyéndose 12. Se analizaron los artículos incluidos y se recogieron variables de eficacia, seguridad y aplicabilidad de herramientas de evaluación a pacientes con sospecha de alergia a beta-lactámicos. Además, se analizó la variación en el consumo y en el perfil de prescripción de antibióticos alternativos. Resultados los estudios seleccionados analizaron cuestionarios, desetiquetado, test intradérmicos y pruebas de provocación oral realizados por farmacéuticos. Se hallaron diferencias significativas en la variable principal de eficacia en 4 estudios incluidos a favor de la intervención farmacéutica. En un estudio cuasi experimental, la utilización de cefazolina aumentó tras la intervención farmacéutica (65 vs. 28%; p < 0,01). En otro estudio cuasi experimental, la dosis diaria definida media de aztreonam y la media de días de terapéutica por 1.000 pacientes/día disminuyeron (21,23 vs. 9,05; p < 0,01) y (8,79–4,24; p = 0,016), pre y postintervención, respectivamente, aumentando las desescaladas antibióticas (p ≤ 0,01). En otro estudio, disminuyó la prescripción de antibióticos de uso restringido (42,5 vs. 17,9%; p < 0,01) y en otro, la utilización de antibióticos profilácticos prequirúrgicos alternativos a cefazolina (81,9 vs. 55,9%; p < 0,01). En otro estudio, el tiempo medio por entrevista fue de 5,2 minutos por paciente. No se reportaron eventos adversos en ningún estudio. Conclusiones la intervención del farmacéutico en la evaluación del paciente con sospecha de alergia a beta-lactámicos resulta eficaz, segura y aplicable a la práctica clínica (AU)

Objective To analyze the role played by the clinical pharmacist and its impact in antibiotic stewardship facing suspected allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics. Method We performed two different independent bibliographic searches. A total of 35 articles were found, and the final number included in the study was 12. We analysed the articles and collected variables of efficacy, safety and applicability of evaluation tools applied to patients with suspected allergy to beta-lactams. Also, the variation in the consumption and prescription profile of alternative antibiotics was analyzed. Results The selected studies analysed questionnaires, allergy delabeling, intradermal tests and oral challenge tests performed by pharmacists. Significant differences in the efficacy endpoint were found in 4 studies in favour of pharmaceutical intervention. In the study of Kwiatkowski et al, cefazolin use increased in surgical patients after pharmacist intervention (65 vs. 28%; p < 0.01). In a quasi-experimental study, the mean defined daily dose of aztreonam and the mean days of therapy per 1000 patients/day decreased (21.23 vs 9.05, p <0.01) and (8.79–4.24, p = 0.016), pre and post-intervention, respectively, increasing antibiotic de-escalations (p ≤ 0.01). In another quasi-experimental study, the prescription of restricted-use antibiotics decreased (42.5% vs. 17.9%, p < 0.01) and the use of pre-surgical prophylactic antibiotics alternative to cefazolin (81.9% vs 55.9%, p<0.01) in another study. Other study showed that the mean time per interview was 5.2 minutes per patient. No adverse events were reported in any study. Conclusion The pharmacist intervention in the evaluation of the patient with suspected allergy to beta-lactams is effective, safe and feasible to implement on daily clinical practice (AU)

Antibiotic consumption in the first months of life: A cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: The factors and patterns associated with antibiotic consumption in infants are unclear. Our aim was to assess the cumulative incidence of antibiotic consumption from birth to 16 months and identify factors associated with antibiotic consumption among infants aged 4-16 months. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in 2016 in a sample of 18 882 women from Galicia, Spain, who had given birth to a live child between September 1, 2015 and August 31, 2016. We calculated the cumulative incidence of antibiotic consumption based on maternal reports regarding the infant's consumption from birth to 14 months obtained through interviews; we did not estimate consumption at ages 15 and 16 months due to the small sample size. To assess which factors were associated with antibiotic consumption, we carried out a nested case-control study matching cases and controls for birth month on a 1:1 ratio. RESULTS: The cumulative incidence of antibiotic consumption among infants aged 0-14 months increased from 7.5% to 66.0%. The case-control study included data for 1852 cases and 1852 controls. Daycare attendance (OR: 3.8 [95% CI: 3.2-4.6]), having older siblings (OR: 1.8 [95% CI: 1.6-2.1]), health care visits to private clinics (OR: 1.6 [95% CI: 1.4-2.0]), and passive smoking (OR: 1.3 [95% CI: 1.1-1.6]) were associated with an increased probability of antibiotic consumption. Maternal age between 30-39 years or 40 years and over at the time of birth was associated with a decreased probability of antibiotic consumption (OR: 0.8 [95% CI, 0.7-1.0] and OR: 0.6 [95% CI: 0.5-0.8], respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Some of the factors associated with antibiotic consumption in infants are modifiable and should be considered in the development of public health measures aimed at reducing antibiotic consumption.

Achromobacter xylosoxidans keratitis in a LASIK flap treated with intrastromal antibiotics: a case report.

Intrastromal antibiotic injections are a type of treatment that can be very useful in bacterial keratitis refractory to topical antibiotics. We present the case of a 44-year-old woman with an infiltrate in a laser in situ keratomiuleusis (LASIK) flap and growth of Achromobacter xylosoxidans, who was treated with topical ceftazidime for 1 month. However, after discontinuation of the antibiotic, there was a worsening with growth of the same germ. Topical treatment was reintroduced and, due to suspicion of germ reservoir, it was decided to give three cycles of intrastromal ceftazidime injections, the last one also with moxifloxacin, with good results. After 4 months asymptomatic and without treatment at the moment, no signs of recurrence have been observed. This case supports the usefulness of intraestromal injections in refractory cases to the topical medication.

Beneficios de la estandarización en el manejo de la apendicitis aguda / Benefits of standardization in the management of acute appendicitis

bjetivos. La apendicitis aguda (AA) es la patología quirúrgica pediátrica urgente más frecuente, pero su manejo postoperatorio es variable. La aplicación de protocolos minimiza esta variabilidad. Presentamos los resultados tras la optimización del protocolo de manejo en nuestro centro con objetivo de determinar su efectividad en cuanto a número de complicaciones infecciosas y optimización de recursos en nuestro medio. Material y métodos. Se realiza un estudio observacional retrospectivo en pacientes intervenidos de AA entre enero 2018 y agosto 2022. Comparamos dos cohortes, antes (1) y después del protocolo (2), subdividiéndolas según gravedad para un análisis por subgrupos: flemonosas (F), gangrenosas (G) y perforadas (P). Resultados. Incluimos 771 pacientes (1: 390/ 2: 381), con distribución homogénea, con mediana de edad 9,3 ± 2,8 años. La solicitud de analíticas previo al alta disminuyó de forma significativa (F: 3,9% vs. 0,5%; p= 0,026; G: 97,6% vs. 13,4%, p< 0,001). Los días de estancia hospitalaria se redujeron en los subgrupos F (1,2 IQR 0,7 vs. 1 IQR 0,36; p< 0,001), y G (4 IQR 1 vs. 3 IQR 1 días; p< 0,001). No se observaron diferencias en el número de abscesos entre los grupos (41 vs. 43 p= 0,73); sí en el subgrupo G (9 vs. 2; p= 0,029). Observamos una reducción del gasto de recursos en F y G. Conclusiones. En nuestro estudio, el subgrupo más beneficiado tras la optimización del protocolo fue el de las apendicitis gangrenosas con una reducción significativa en el número de complicaciones y en la utilización de recursos hospitalarios.(AU)

Objective. Acute appendicitis (AA) is the most frequent urgent surgical pathology in the pediatric population, but postoperative management is variable, with protocols minimizing variability. We present our results following the optimization of the management protocol in ourinstitution in order to establish its efficacy in terms of number of infectious complications and optimization of resources in our environment. Materials and methods. An observational, retrospective study of patients undergoing AA surgery from January 2018 to August 2022 was carried out. Two cohorts were compared, both before (1) and after (2) the implementation of the new protocol. They were divided according to severity in order to conduct a subgroup-based analysis –phlegmonous (PH), gangrenous (G), and perforated (P) appendicitis. Results. 771 patients (1: 390; 2: 381) were included, with a homogeneous distribution and a median age of 9.3 ± 2.8 years. Blood tests requested prior to discharge experienced a significant reduction (PH: 3.9% vs. 0.5%; p= 0.026; G: 97.6% vs. 13.4%, p< 0.001). Days of hospital stay decreased in the PH (1.2 IQR: 0.7 vs. 1 IQR: 0.36; p< 0.001) and G (4 IQR: 1 vs. 3 IQR: 1 days; p< 0.001) subgroups. No differences in the number of abscesses were found between groups (41 vs. 43; p= 0.73), but they were noted within subgroup G (9 vs. 2; p= 0.029). A reduction in resource expenses was detected in PH and G appendicitis. Conclusions. In our study, the most widely benefited subgroup following protocol optimization was the gangrenous appendicitis subgroup, with a significant reduction in the number of complications and the use of hospital resources.(AU)

Rapid diagnostic tests for dengue would reduce hospitalizations, healthcare costs and antibiotic prescriptions in Spain: A cost-effectiveness analysis / Los tests de diagnóstico rápido para dengue reducirían las hospitalizaciones, los costes sanitarios y la prescripción de antibióticos en España: un análisis de coste-efectividad

Background: Current gold standard diagnostic techniques for dengue are expensive and time-consuming. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have been proposed as alternatives, although data about their potential impact in non-endemic areas is scarce. Methods: We performed a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing the costs of dengue RDTs to the current standard of care for the management of febrile returning travelers in Spain. Effectiveness was measured in terms of potential averted hospital admissions and reduction of empirical antibiotics, based on 2015–2020 dengue admissions at Hospital Clinic Barcelona (Spain). Results: Dengue RDTs were associated with 53.6% (95% CI: 33.9–72.5) reduction of hospital admissions and were estimated to save 289.08–389.31€ per traveler tested. Moreover, RDTs would have avoided the use of antibiotics in 46.4% (95% CI: 27.5–66.1) of dengue patients. Discussion: Implementation of dengue RDTs for the management of febrile travelers is a cost-saving strategy that would lead to a reduction of half of dengue admissions and a reduction of inappropriate antibiotics in Spain.(AU)

Introducción: El actual gold standard para el diagnóstico de dengue se basa en técnicas caras y que requieren tiempo. Los tests de diagnóstico rápido (TDR) se han propuesto como una posible alternativa, aunque los datos sobre su posible impacto en áreas no endémicas son escasos. Métodos: Realizamos un análisis de coste-efectividad comparando los costes del uso de TDR para dengue con el manejo habitual de viajeros con fiebre en España. Para medir la efectividad se estimaron las hospitalizaciones potencialmente evitables y la reducción de antibióticos empíricos de acuerdo con las hospitalizaciones por dengue entre 2015-2020 en el Hospital Clínic Barcelona (España). Resultados: El uso de TDR para dengue se asoció con una reducción de 53.6% (IC 95%: 33.9–72.5) de las hospitalizaciones y un ahorro de 289.08-389.31€ por viajero testado. Además, el uso de TDR hubiese evitado el tratamiento de antibióticos en 46.4% (IC 95%: 27.5–66.1) de los casos de dengue. Discusión: La implementación de TDR de dengue para el manejo de viajeros con fiebre es una medida de reducción de gastos que disminuiría a la mitad los ingresos hospitalarios por dengue y supondría una reducción del uso inapropiado de antibióticos en España.(AU)

Infecciones más frecuentes en pacientes con Lupus Eritematoso Sistémico internados en el Servicio de Clínica Médica del Hospital Nacional / Most frequent infections in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus admitted to the Medical Clinic Service of the Hospital Nacional

Introducción: el lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) se conoce como una enfermedad autoinmune multisistémica, cuya causa es desconocida, se caracteriza por la presencia de complejos inmunes y autoanticuerpos. En series internacionales se describe una presentación de procesos infecciosos en estos pacientes hasta en un 75 % de los casos, las infecciones ocurren tanto al inicio de la enfermedad como en etapas tardías, y son causa directa de muerte en 30 % a 60 % de los casos y motivo de hospitalización hasta de 30 %. Objetivos: determinar los procesos infecciosos más frecuentes en pacientes con lupus eritematoso sistémico internados en el Servicio de Clínica Médica del Hospital Nacional en el periodo 2022-2023. Metodología: diseño observacional, descriptivo de corte transversal de pacientes con diagnóstico de lupus eritematoso sistémico según criterios de European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)-2019 que se encuentran internados en el servicio de Clínica Médica del Hospital Nacional (Itaugua-Paraguay) en el periodo de 2022-2023. Resultados: la edad media de los pacientes fue de 34 años, con predominio del sexo femenino en el 88.18 %. Las infecciones del aparato respiratorio fue la más frecuentemente diagnosticada en 50 (45.45 %) pacientes, seguido por la infección de vías urinarias 47 (42.38 %) pacientes, el condicionante de riesgo predominante fue el uso de corticoides en un total 105 (96.40 %) pacientes, se estableció en un total de 97 (88.18 %) pacientes con antibioticoterapia, dentro del aspecto demográfico de la zona urbana 56 (50.90 %) pacientes y rural 54(49.1 %). Conclusión: la infección del aparato respiratorio fue la infección más frecuente, el condicionante de riesgo predominante es el uso de corticoides y recibieron antibioticoterapia la cual en monoterapia fue la más utilizada

Introduction: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known as a multisystem autoimmune disease, whose cause is unknown, and is characterized by the presence of immune complexes and autoantibodies. In international series, presentation of infectious processes is described in these patients in up to 75 % of cases. Infections occur both at the beginning of the disease and in late stages, and are a direct cause of death in 30 % to 60 % of patients. Cases and reason for hospitalization up to 30 %. Objectives: determine the most frequent infectious processes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus admitted to the Medical Clinic Service of the Hospital Nacional in the period 2022-2023. Methodology: observational, descriptive cross-sectional design of patients with a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus according to criteria of European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)-2019 who are admitted to the Medical Clinic service of the Hospital Nacional (Itauguá-Paraguay) in the period of 2022-2023. Results: the average age of the patients was 34 years, with a predominance of the female sex in 88.18 %. Respiratory system infections were the most frequently diagnosed in 50 (45.45 %) patients, followed by urinary tract infection in 47 (42.38 %) patients. The predominant risk factor was the use of corticosteroids in a total of 105 (96.40 %) patients, it was established in a total of 97 (88.18 %) patients with antibiotic therapy, within the demographic aspect of the urban area 56 (50.90 %) patients and rural 54 (49.1 %). Conclusion: respiratory tract infection was the most frequent infection, the predominant risk factor is the use of corticosteroids and they received antibiotic therapy, which in monotherapy was the most used.

Similarities of Geobacillus bacteria based on their profiles of antimicrobial susceptibility in milk samples.

The genus Geobacillus is composed of thermophilic bacteria that exhibit diverse biotechnological potentialities. Specifically, Geobacillus stearothermophilus is included as a test bacterium in commercial microbiological inhibition methods, although it exhibits limited sensitivity to aminoglycosides, macrolides, and quinolones. Therefore, this article evaluates the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of five test bacteria (G. stearothermophilus subsp. calidolactis C953, Geobacillus thermocatenulatus LMG 19007, Geobacillus thermoleovorans LMG 9823, Geobacillus kaustophilus DSM 7263 and Geobacillus vulcani 13174). For that purpose, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 21 antibiotics were determined in milk samples for five test bacteria using the radial diffusion microbiological inhibition method. Subsequently, the similarities between bacteria and antibiotics were analyzed using cluster analysis. The dendrogram of this multivariate analysis shows an association between a group formed by G. thermocatenulatus and G. stearothermophilus and another by G. thermoleovorans, G. kaustophilus and G. vulcani. Finally, future microbiological methods could be developed in microtiter plates using G. thermocatenulatus as test bacterium, as it exhibits similar sensitivities to G. stearothermophilus. Conversely, G. vulcani, G. thermoleovorans and G. kaustophilus show higher MICs than G. thermocatenulatus.

The role of clinical pharmacists in patients with suspected allergy to ß-lactams: A systematic review. / El farmacéutico clínico en el abordaje del paciente con sospecha de alergia a beta-lactámicos: una revisión sistemática.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the role played by the clinical pharmacist and its impact in antibiotic stewardship facing suspected allergy to beta-lactam antibiotics. METHOD: We performed two different independent bibliographic searches. A total of 35 articles were found, and the final number included in the study was 12. We analysed the articles and collected variables of efficacy, safety and applicability of evaluation tools applied to patients with suspected allergy to beta-lactams. Also, the variation in the consumption and prescription profile of alternative antibiotics was analyzed. RESULTS: The selected studies analysed questionnaires, allergy delabeling, intradermal tests and oral challenge tests performed by pharmacists. Significant differences in the efficacy endpoint were found in 4 studies in favour of pharmaceutical intervention. In the study of Kwiatkowski et al, cefazolin use increased in surgical patients after pharmacist intervention (65 vs. 28%; p < 0.01). In a quasi-experimental study, the mean defined daily dose of aztreonam and the mean days of therapy per 1000 patients/day decreased (21.23 vs 9.05, p <0.01) and (8.79-4.24, p = 0.016), pre and post-intervention, respectively, increasing antibiotic de-escalations (p ≤ 0.01). In another quasi-experimental study, the prescription of restricted-use antibiotics decreased (42.5% vs. 17.9%, p < 0.01) and the use of pre-surgical prophylactic antibiotics alternative to cefazolin (81.9% vs 55.9%, p<0.01) in another study. Other study showed that the mean time per interview was 5.2 minutes per patient. No adverse events were reported in any study. CONCLUSION: The pharmacist intervention in the evaluation of the patient with suspected allergy to beta-lactams is effective, safe and feasible to implement on daily clinical practice. The standardization of protocols to clarify the history of allergies and development of evaluation tools represent simple screenings to perform delabelling or refer to the Immunoallergology service, improving penicilins use and reducing the need for second line antibiotics. More studies are needed to standardize the desensitization tests made by pharmacists. However, despite these results, the involvement and leadership of the pharmacist in this area is limited and constitutes a future challenge for the profession.

Rapid diagnostic tests for dengue would reduce hospitalizations, healthcare costs and antibiotic prescriptions in Spain: A cost-effectiveness analysis.

BACKGROUND: Current gold standard diagnostic techniques for dengue are expensive and time-consuming. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have been proposed as alternatives, although data about their potential impact in non-endemic areas is scarce. METHODS: We performed a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing the costs of dengue RDTs to the current standard of care for the management of febrile returning travelers in Spain. Effectiveness was measured in terms of potential averted hospital admissions and reduction of empirical antibiotics, based on 2015-2020 dengue admissions at Hospital Clinic Barcelona (Spain). RESULTS: Dengue RDTs were associated with 53.6% (95% CI: 33.9-72.5) reduction of hospital admissions and were estimated to save 289.08-389.31€ per traveler tested. Moreover, RDTs would have avoided the use of antibiotics in 46.4% (95% CI: 27.5-66.1) of dengue patients. DISCUSSION: Implementation of dengue RDTs for the management of febrile travelers is a cost-saving strategy that would lead to a reduction of half of dengue admissions and a reduction of inappropriate antibiotics in Spain.