Evaluation of Risk Factors for Clostridium difficile Infection in Pediatric Patients with Hematologic Malignancies
Project no. 30790 · Status: Kapanmış (Yayın bekleniyor) · 2023
Summary
<p>Children with hematologic malignancies hospitalized for treatment are at high risk for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) due to immunosuppression, broad-spectrum antibiotic use, and prolonged hospital stays. This study evaluated the incidence of CDI, associated risk factors, and the effectiveness of rapid diagnostic methods. The research, conducted at Ege University, involved 20 pediatric patients diagnosed with hematologic malignancies who presented with diarrhea. CDI diagnosis was performed using the Xpert C. difficile test, which identified CDI positivity in three patients (15%). All CDIpositive patients were receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics, and most exhibited neutropenia, elevated acute phase reactants, and severe infection symptoms. These patients were treated with metronidazole, resulting in clinical improvement. The Xpert test facilitated the rapid and accurate detection of toxin genes, enabling early diagnosis and treatment. This method may contribute to infection control by reducing unnecessary antibiotic use and patient isolation. The study underlined the importance of closely monitoring pediatric patients with hematologic malignancies for CDI. In conclusion, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of CDI are crucial in managing infections in patients with hematologic malignancies and hematopoietic stem cell transplants. Rapid diagnostic methods such as the Xpert C. difficile test can play a significant role in infection management and improving patient outcomes. </p>