Recurrent Infection in an Immunodeficient Patient Treated with Repeated Faecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT)-A Case Report.

There is limited evidence to guide successful treatment of recurrent infection in patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) already managed on regular immunoglobulin therapy. The role of faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is uncertain. We report a case of recurrent infection in a patient with CVID treated with repeated FMT with 18 months of symptom resolution prior to relapse.

Clostridium difficile infection in pregnant and postpartum women in 2 hospitals and a review of literature.

Background: Healthcare-associated Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in pregnant/postpartum women is underreported, especially outside of North America. We report a cluster of cases in 2 neighboring secondary care hospitals in South-East England. The objective of this study was to identify the epidemiology and risk factors for infection.

What are the critical steps in processing blood cultures? A prospective audit evaluating current practice of reporting blood cultures in a centralised laboratory serving secondary care hospitals.

Aims: To assess current procedures of processing positive blood cultures against national standards with an aim to evaluate its clinical impact and to determine the utility of currently available rapid identification and susceptibility tests in processing of blood cultures.

Methods: Blood cultures from three secondary care hospitals, processed at a centralised laboratory, were prospectively audited. Data regarding processing times, communication with prescribers, changes to patient management and mortality within 30 days of a significant blood culture were collected in a preplanned pro forma for a 4-week period.

Herpetic neonatal pustular rash.

Pustular rash in a neonate is very common and is usually associated with staphylococcal infection. The present report describes the case of a 12-day-old neonate with a pustular rash, secondary to herpes simplex infection. A high index of suspicion is necessary in neonates presenting with suggestive signs, especially with negative bacterial cultures.