Increase in Bacteremia Cases in Denmark (2010-2022)
Author Information
Author(s): Dessau Ram B., Andersen Christian Østergaard, Coia John, Ellermann-Eriksen Svend, Gubbels Sophie, Jensen Thøger Gorm, Knudsen Jenny Dahl, Kähler Jonas, Lomborg Steen, Lützen Lisbeth, Nielsen Marc Trunjer Kusk, Olesen Bente Scharvik, Pinholt Mette, Scheutz Flemming, Søgaard Kirstine Kobberøe, Voldstedlund Marianne, Mølbak Kåre
Primary Institution: Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
Hypothesis
The study aims to characterize the epidemiology and mortality associated with positive blood cultures in Denmark.
Conclusion
There has been a significant rise in blood culture activity and the incidence of positive cultures, particularly among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Blood cultures increased from 220,757 in 2010 to 362,239 in 2022.
- The positivity rate for blood cultures was 9.8%.
- 30-day case fatality rate was 17% with variations based on species.
- The population of older adults above 85 years increased 3.3 times during the study period.
- Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen, accounting for 29% of episodes.
Takeaway
The number of people getting sick from bacteria in their blood is going up, especially in older folks, which is a big worry for health.
Methodology
A nationwide cohort study analyzing blood cultures drawn in Denmark from 2010 to 2022.
Potential Biases
The study included all reported microorganisms, which may introduce bias in the interpretation of results.
Limitations
The study did not exclude potential contaminants from the episodes.
Participant Demographics
149,501 individuals, with 43.5% women and 56.5% men.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 8.3–10.5
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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