Randomized Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Early Switch From Vancomycin to Vancomycin Alternatives as a Strategy to Prevent Nephrotoxicity in Patients With Multiple Risk Factors for Adverse Renal Outcomes (STOP-NT).

Background: Use of alternative antimicrobials to vancomycin is a potential strategy to reduce acute kidney injury (AKI) in high-risk patients, but current data do not support widespread adoption of this practice.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of early switch to a nonnephrotoxic alternative for prevention of AKI in high-risk patients who receive vancomycin.

Methods: This was an IRB-approved, prospective randomized controlled trial in a single, tertiary care academic medical center.

Comparative Incidence of Nephrotoxicity by Age Group among Adult Patients Receiving Vancomycin.

Introduction: Little is known regarding age-related risk of nephrotoxicity during vancomycin therapy after the publication of the 2009 vancomycin consensus guidelines for therapeutic drug monitoring. We sought to evaluate incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury in three age groups.

Methods: Matched cohort study of patients receiving vancomycin, grouped by age: young adults (18-64 years), older adults (65-79 years) and very elderly (≥80 years), matched on previously published risk factors for nephrotoxicity.

Epidemiology and outcomes associated with anemia during long-term support with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices.

Background: The purpose of this study was to define the prevalence and clinical ramifications of anemia in patients implanted with a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD).

Methods And Results: Patients implanted with a CF-LVAD from January 1, 2008, to April 30, 2012, were included in this retrospective cohort study. The primary outcome was the prevalence of anemia throughout the 1st year of device support.