The accelerated hepatitis B virus vaccination schedule among hemodialysis patients, does it work? A randomized controlled trial.

Background: Hemodialysis patients possess particular attributes which increase the susceptibility to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. HBV vaccination significantly decreased the number of new HBV-infected patients. However, the conventional vaccination schedule requires a 6-months duration.

Procalcitonin level as a surrogate for catheter-related blood stream infection among hemodialysis patients.

Introduction: Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a frequent complication among hemodialysis patients who usually are presented with nonspecific signs such as fever, rigors, and hypotension. Blood culture will take up to 5 days and antimicrobials will be started. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a valid marker in sepsis.