Impact of multiresistance of gram-negative bacteria in bloodstream infection on mortality rates and length of stay.

Background: Bloodstream infections (BSI) with gram-negative bacteria (GNB) are one of the most serious infections in the hospital setting, a situation compounded by the increasing antibiotic resistance of gram-negative bacteria causing BSI. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of antibiotic multiresistance of GNB in BSI on mortality rates and length of stay (LOS).

Materials And Methods: The setting was the University Hospital Aachen, a 1,500-bed tertiary-care hospital with over 100 ICU beds providing maximal medical care in all disciplines.

Assessment of a selective surveillance method for detecting nosocomial infections in patients in the intensive care department.

Background: The implementation of a time- and cost-effective system for the surveillance of the nosocomial infection (NI) is a challenge for infection control practitioners.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the sensitivity and the time reduction using a selective surveillance method (SSM) for the detection of NIs in comparison with a reference surveillance method (RSM).

Methods: During a 12-month period, surveillance was performed prospectively in 4 intensive care departments on a rotating basis.

Spontaneous fascial necrosis of the upper thigh by beta-hemolytic streptococci.

This is a case-report of a gangrene involving muscle and fascia of the left femur due to group A of beta-hemolytic streptococci without visible injury of the skin. The diagnosis was derived from germ-evidence and by course of anti-desoxyribonuclease-B titer.