Healthcare-associated infections: new challenges looking for answers.

Nosocomial transmission of multiresistant bacteria is a growing healthcare issue. In addition, new pathogens and pathogenic mechanisms, associated with therapies based on the use of live microorganisms, can be of importance in the near future. The current issue of CKJ illustrates healthcare-associated infections that go beyond common bacteria. First, the therapeutic use of live BCG mycobacteria is not without risks in the chronic kidney disease patients. Familiarity with these complications will allow their rapid recognition and optimized management. Second, strict adherence to universal precautions and healthcare guidelines is still mandatory in order to avoid undesirable risks such as transmission of hepatitis B virus.