Alcaligenes xylosoxidans Bloodstream Infections in Outpatient Oncology Office
Author Information
Author(s): Kim Moon J., Bancroft Elizabeth, Lehnkering Eleanor, Donlan Rodney M., Mascola Laurene
Primary Institution: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
Hypothesis
What are the risk factors for Alcaligenes xylosoxidans bloodstream infections in outpatient oncology patients?
Conclusion
The study found that breaches in infection control led to a cluster of bloodstream infections caused by Alcaligenes xylosoxidans in patients with central venous catheters.
Supporting Evidence
- 12 patients with A. xylosoxidans bloodstream infection were identified.
- Case-patients were significantly more likely to have had a central venous catheter than controls.
- The outbreak was linked to breaches in infection control practices.
Takeaway
Some patients got sick from a germ called Alcaligenes xylosoxidans because the doctors didn't follow the right rules to keep things clean.
Methodology
The study used a matched case-control study and a prospective cohort study to investigate the outbreak.
Potential Biases
The investigation was limited by the lack of medical records indicating when nursing staff accessed the CVCs.
Limitations
The original multidose vials used at the start of the outbreak were discarded and not available for testing.
Participant Demographics
All 12 case-patients were immunocompromised, aged 41 to 79 years, with a mean age of 65.8 years, and 83.3% were female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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