Catheter-and device-related infections in critically ill cancer patients

Central venous catheters are essential for treating the critically ill and cancer patients. However, this patient population is at high risk for catheter-related bloodstream infections that deemed to be a major cause of healthcarerelated infections and have been reported to be associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. The diagnosis of central line as a source of infection relies on specific laboratory testing, and the definition of catheterrelated bloodstream infections formulated by the Infectious Diseases Society of America remains the most accurate definition. The leading cause of catheter-associated bloodstream infection is gram-positive bacteria, particularly coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species. Central line-related infections require a multidisciplinary approach for preventing and managing these infections. Catheter removal combined with appropriate intravenous antibiotics remains the keystone of therapy; however, novel interventions for salvaging the catheters have been developed, including antimicrobial lock solutions or exchanging with antimicrobial-coated catheters. Moreover, antimicrobial-impregnated catheters and lock therapy are also effective in preventing shortterm and long-term catheter-related infections.