A Frontline Approach With Peripherally Inserted Versus Centrally Inserted Central Venous Catheters for Remission Induction Chemotherapy Phase of Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Randomized Comparison

Central venous access device terminologies, complications, and reason for removal in oncology: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Lack of agreed terminology and definitions in healthcare compromises communication, patient safety, optimal management of adverse events, and research progress. The purpose of this scoping review was to understand the terminologies used to describe central venous access devices (CVADs), associated complications and reasons for premature removal in people undergoing cancer treatment. It also sought to identify the definitional sources for complications and premature removal reasons. The objective was to map language and descriptions used and to explore opportunities for standardisation.

METHODS

A systematic search of MedLine, PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL Complete and Embase databases was performed. Eligibility criteria included, but were not limited to, adult patients with cancer, and studies published between 2017 and 2022. Articles were screened and data extracted in Covidence. Data charting included study characteristics and detailed information on CVADs including terminologies and definitional sources for complications and premature removal reasons. Descriptive statistics, tables and bar graphs were used to summarise charted data.

RESULTS

From a total of 2363 potentially eligible studies, 292 were included in the review. Most were observational studies (n = 174/60%). A total of 213 unique descriptors were used to refer to CVADs, with all reasons for premature CVAD removal defined in 84 (44%) of the 193 studies only, and complications defined in 56 (57%) of the 292 studies. Where available, definitions were author-derived and/or from national resources and/or other published studies.

CONCLUSION

Substantial variation in CVAD terminology and a lack of standard definitions for associated complications and premature removal reasons was identified. This scoping review demonstrates the need to standardise CVAD nomenclature to enhance communication between healthcare professionals as patients undergoing cancer treatment transition between acute and long-term care, to enhance patient safety and rigor of research protocols, and improve the capacity for data sharing.

Vascular access device type for systemic anti-cancer therapies in cancer patients: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer can expect to receive numerous invasive vascular access procedures for intravenous therapy and clinical diagnostics. Due to the increased incidence and prevalence of cancer globally there will be significantly more people who require first-line intravenous chemotherapy over the next ten years.

METHODS

Our objective was to determine the types of evidence that exist for the vascular access device (VAD) type for the delivery of systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) in cancer patients. We used JBI scoping review methodology to identify the types of VADs used for SACT and with a specific search strategy included articles from 2012-2022 published in the English language. We identify (i) type of VADs used for SACT delivery (ii) the type of insertion and post-insertion complications (iii) the geographical location and clinical environment (iv) and whether VAD choice impacts on quality of life (QOL). Findings were presented using the PAGER framework.

MAIN FINDINGS

Our search strategy identified 10,390 titles, of these, 5318 duplicates were removed. The remaining 5072 sources were screened for eligibility, 240 articles met the inclusion criteria. The most common design include retrospective study designs (n = 91) followed by prospective study designs (n = 31). We found 28 interventional studies with 21 registered in a clinical trial registry and identified no core outcome sets papers specific to VAD for SACT. The most prevalent publications were those that featured two or more VAD types (n = 70), followed by tunnelled intravenous VADs (n = 67). Of 38 unique complications identified, the most frequent catheter related complication was catheter related thrombosis (n = 178, 74%), followed by infection (n = 170, 71%). The county where the most publications originated from was China (n = 62) with one randomized controlled multicenter study from a comprehensive cancer centre. Of the thirty three studies that included QOL we found 4 which reported on body image. No QOL measurement tools specific to the process of SACT administration via VAD are available INTERPRETATION: Our findings suggest a systematic review and meta-analysis of VAD use for intravenous SACT can be considered. However, the development of a core outcome set for SACT should be prioritised. Funding for high quality programs of research for VAD in cancer are needed. Comprehensive cancer centres should lead this research agenda.

The difficult PICC insertion is associated with the significant increase of complications in 1 month follow-up

BACKGROUND

PICC is routinely inserted with assistance of ultrasonography and/or ECG navigation (RI- routine insertion). Only in a minority of patients the insertion of a PICC is difficult and fluoroscopic visualization with introduction of special guidewire is necessary for the success of the procedure (DI-difficult insertion). The aim of the study was to evaluate whether DI can be predicted and associated with a risk of complications during follow-up.

METHODS

The study included patients who had a PICC insertion in 2022. The number of patients with RI and DI was recorded and the significance of selected parameters during insertion and the frequency of complications during 1 month follow-up was compared.

RESULTS

About 1404 patients had successful PICC insertion in 2022, RI in 1360 (96.8%) and DI in 44 patients (3.2%). There was no significant effect of age, gender, selected vein, its size, insertion site, and tunneling on the course of PICC insertion. However the number of punctures for needle insertion was higher in DI. The complication rate during 1 month follow-up in DI was 9 (20.4%) versus 101 patients (7.4%) in RI (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

PICC insertion was successful in both RI and DI patients. Of the analyzed parameters, the number of needle punctures was associated with DI, and complications during the 1-month follow-up were more frequently noted in the DI group.

Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheter (PICC) Related Bloodstream Infection in Cancer Patients Treated with Chemotherapy Compared with Noncancer Patients: A Propensity-Score-Matched Analysis

The use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) has increased in cancer patients. This study aimed to compare the incidence of PICC-related bloodstream infections (PICCR-BSIs) in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy and in noncancer patients. We performed a secondary analysis from a retrospective, single-center, observational cohort. The PICCR-BSI incidence rates in cancer and noncancer patients were compared after 1:1 propensity-score matching. Then, the factors associated with PICCR-BSI were assessed in a Cox model. Among the 721 PICCs (627 patients) included in the analysis, 240 were placed in cancer patients for chemotherapy and 481 in noncancer patients. After propensity-score matching, the PICCR-BSI incidence rate was 2.6 per 1000 catheter days in cancer patients and 1.0 per 1000 catheter days in noncancer patients (p < 0.05). However, after adjusting for variables resulting in an imbalance between groups after propensity-score matching, only the number of PICC lumens was independently associated with PICCR-BSI (adjusted hazard ratio 1.81, 95% confidence interval: 1.01-3.22; p = 0.04). In conclusion, the incidence rate of PICCR-BSI is higher in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy than in noncancer patients, but our results also highlight the importance of limiting the number of PICC lumens in such patients.

Intravascular Complications of Central Venous Catheterization by Insertion Site in Acute Leukemia during Remission Induction Chemotherapy Phase: Lower Risk with Peripherally Inserted Catheters in a Single-Center Retrospective Study

The basilic/brachial (BBV), internal jugular (IJV), and subclavian veins (SCV) are commonly used as central venous catheter (CVC) sites. A BBV approach [peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)] is increasingly used for short- to intermediate-term CVCs for acute leukemias undergoing cytotoxic intensive regimens. In this retrospective study, the catheterization of the BBV, IJV, and SCV in patients with previously untreated acute leukemia was assessed. The primary outcome was the composite incidence of catheter-related symptomatic deep-vein thrombosis (sDVT) and bloodstream infection (BSI) from catheterization up to 30 days later. In a 10-year period, 336 CVC were inserted in the BBV (n = 115), IJV (n = 111), and SCV (n = 110) in 336 patients suffering from AML (n = 201) and ALL (n = 135) and undergoing induction chemotherapy. The primary outcome events were 8, 20, and 27 in the BBV, SCV and IJV cohorts (2.6, 6.9, and 9.6 per 1000 catheter-days, respectively; p = 0.002). The primary outcome risk was significantly higher in the IJV-cohort than in the BBV-cohort (HR, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.6 to 7.9; p = 0.001) and in the SCV-cohort than in the BBV-cohort (HR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.2 to 5.9; p = 0.02). PICC was a valid CVC for the induction chemotherapy of acute leukemia for the lowest risk of sDVT and BSI.

The occurrence of thrombosis during intensive chemotherapy treatment for acute myeloid leukemia patients does not impact on long-term survival

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is frequently seen in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients and presents a significant clinical challenge. The association of VTE during intensive chemotherapy with risk models such as the Medical Research Council (MRC) cytogenetic-based assessment and the European LeukemiaNet (ELN) 2017 molecular risk model have not been rigorously evaluated. Additionally, there is a paucity of data pertaining to the long-term prognostic impact of VTE in AML patients. We performed an analysis of baseline parameters of AML patients diagnosed with VTE during intensive chemotherapy and compared them with patients without VTE. The analyzed cohort consisted of 335 newly diagnosed AML patients with a median age of 55 years. Thirty-five patients (11%) were classified as MRC favorable risk, 219 (66%) patients as intermediate risk, 58 patients (17%) as adverse risk. Per ELN 2017, 132 patients (40%) had favorable risk disease, 122 patients (36%) intermediate risk, and 80 patients (24%) had adverse risk. VTE was seen in 33 patients (9.9%), occurring mostly during induction (70%), and required catheter removal in 9 patients (28%). Baseline clinical, laboratory, molecular, and ELN 2017 parameters were not significantly different groups. However, MRC intermediate-risk group patients were significantly more likely to experience thrombosis compared to favorable risk and adverse risk patients (12.8% versus 5.7% and 1.7%, respectively; p = 0.049). Median overall survival was not significantly impacted by the diagnosis of thrombosis (3.7 years versus 2.2 years; p = 0.47). VTE is tightly associated with temporal and cytogenetic parameters in AML but does not significantly impact on long-term outcomes.

Alarming Upward Trend in Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in a Large Cohort of Immunocompromised Children: A Four-Year Comparative Study

Documenting bacteremia at the onset of fever in immunosuppressed children is challenging; therefore, it leads to the early administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics. We aimed to analyse the evolution of antibiotic resistance profiles of bacterial bloodstream infections (BSI) and gut colonisations in a large cohort of immunocompromised children carrying a central venous catheter, in comparison with a prior, similar study conducted in our centre from 2014 to 2017. A retrospective, observational cohort study was conducted from January 2018 to December 2021, in a tertiary centre for paediatric immuno-haematology and oncology. Empirical antibiotic therapy was adapted to the immunosuppression risk group and prior bacterial colonisation. There was a mean of 6.9 BSI/1000 patient bed days. Multidrug-resistant bacteria (MDRB) associated BSI accounted for 35/273 (12.8%). The incidence of MDRB gum/gut colonisation and MDRB associated BSI increased annually and correlated with the level of immunosuppression (p = 0.024). One third (34.7%) of the BSI episodes were not associated with neutropenia. As compared to the previous study, an alarming emergence of MDRB responsible for gut colonisations and BSI in immunosuppressed children was reported over the last four years. The degree of immunosuppression directly correlates with the risk of having an MDRB gut colonisation or MDRB BSI.

Symptomatic Deep Vein Thrombosis Associated With Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters of Different Diameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

We assessed the relationship between peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) diameters and symptomatic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) rates. We conducted a systematic search for articles published between 2010 and 2021 reporting DVT incidence by catheter diameter in patients who had a PICC, followed by meta-analyses for DVT risk in each diameter group. Pooled DVT rates were incorporated into an economic model. Of 1627 abstracts screened, 47 studies were included. The primary meta-analysis of 40 studies demonstrated the incidence of DVT was 0.89%, 3.26%, 5.46%, and 10.66% for 3, 4, 5, and 6 French (Fr) PICCs (P  =  .01 between 4 and 5 Fr). Rates of DVT were not significantly different between oncology and nononcology patients (P  =  .065 for 4 Fr and P  =  .99 for 5 Fr). The DVT rate was 5.08% for ICU patients and 4.58% for non-ICU patients (P  =  .65). The economic model demonstrated an annual, incremental cost savings of US$114 053 for every 5% absolute reduction in 6 Fr PICCs use. Using the smallest PICC that meets the patients' clinical needs may help to mitigate risks and confer savings.

Insertion site of central venous catheter among hospitalized adult patients: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Introduction

Central venous catheterization is a commonly performed procedure, accounting for approximately 8% of hospitalized patients. Based on the current literatures, the most acceptable site for central venous catheterization is inconclusive, considering various complications in hospitalized patients. Herein, we conducted a network meta-analysis to assess the clinically important complications among internal jugular, subclavian, femoral, and peripheral insertion.

Materials and methods

The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Ichushi databases, Clinicaltrials.gov, and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched. Studies including adults aged ≥ 18 years and randomized control trials that compared two different insertion sites (internal jugular, subclavian, femoral, and peripheral vein) were selected. The primary outcomes were clinically important infectious, thrombotic, and mechanical complications.

Results

Among the 5,819 records initially identified, 13 trials (6,201 patients) were included for a network meta-analysis. For clinically important infectious complication, subclavian insertion decreased the complication risk, compared with internal jugular [risk ratio (RR), 0.30; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.11-0.81; moderate certainty], and femoral insertion increased than subclavian insertion (RR 2.56; 95% CI, 1.02-6.44; moderate certainty). Peripheral insertion was also significantly associated with a lower risk compared with internal jugular (RR 0.06; 95% CI, 0.01-0.32; low certainty); subclavian (RR 0.21; 95% CI, 0.05-0.77; moderate certainty); and femoral insertion (RR 0.08; 95% CI, 0.02-0.40; low certainty). For clinically important thrombotic complication, we did not find significant differences between insertion sites. For clinically important mechanical complication, femoral insertion decreased the complication risk, compared with internal jugular (RR 0.42; 95% CI, 0.21-0.82; moderate certainty) and subclavian insertion (RR 0.33; 95% CI, 0.16-0.66; moderate certainty). Peripheral insertion was also associated with the lower complication risk compared with internal jugular (RR 0.39; 95% CI, 0.18-0.85; low certainty) and subclavian insertion (RR 0.31; 95% CI, 0.13-0.75; moderate certainty).

Conclusion

The insertion site of the central venous catheter, which is most likely to cause the fewest complications, should be selected. Our findings can provide the rationale for deciding the insertion site for a central venous catheter.

Systematic review registration

[www.protocols.io], identifier [61375].

The incidence and risk of venous thromboembolism associated with peripherally inserted central venous catheters in hospitalized patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) can be fatal if not treated promptly, and individual studies have reported wide variability in rates of VTE associated with peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC). We thus conducted this meta-analysis to investigate the overall incidence and risk of developing PICC-related VTE in hospitalized patients.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception until January 26, 2022. In studies with a non-comparison arm, the pooled incidence of PICC-related VTE was calculated. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was calculated to assess the risk of VTE in the studies that compared PICC to the central venous catheter (CVC). The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess methodological quality.

Results

A total of 75 articles (58 without a comparison arm and 17 with), including 109292 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pooled incidence of symptomatic VTE was 3.7% (95% CI: 3.1–4.4) in non-comparative studies. In the subgroup meta-analysis, the incidence of VTE was highest in patients who were in a critical care setting (10.6%; 95% CI: 5.0–17.7). Meta-analysis of comparative studies revealed that PICC was associated with a statistically significant increase in the odds of VTE events compared with CVC (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.83–3.37; P < 0.01). However, in subgroup analysis stratified by the study design, there was no significant difference in VTE events between the PICC and CVC in randomized controlled trials (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 0.77–6.74; P = 0.13).

Conclusion

Best practice standards such as PICC tip verification and VTE prophylaxis can help reduce the incidence and risk of PICC-related VTE. The risk-benefit of inserting PICC should be carefully weighed, especially in critically ill patients. Cautious interpretation of our results is important owing to substantial heterogeneity among the studies included in this study.

Peripherally inserted central venous catheters decrease central line-associated bloodstream infections and change microbiological epidemiology in adult hematology unit: a propensity score-adjusted analysis

Peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) have a potential advantage in preventing central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) compared with the centrally inserted ones (CICCs). However, due to a limited number of studies with insufficient statistical evaluation, the superiority of PICCs is difficult to be generalized in adult hematology unit. We conducted a single-center retrospective study and compared the risk of CLABSI between 472 CICCs and 557 PICCs inserted in adult patients with hematological disorders through conventional multivariate models and a propensity score-adjusted analysis. The overall CLABSI incidence in CICCs and PICCs was 5.11 and 3.29 per 1000 catheter days (P = 0.024). The multivariate Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.48; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.31-0.75; P = 0.001) and Fine-Gray subdistribution analysis (HR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.37-0.93; P = 0.023) demonstrated that PICC was independently associated with a reduced risk of CLABSI. Moreover, the stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis, which further reduced the selection bias between CICCs and PICCs, showed that PICCs significantly prevented CLABSI (HR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.35-0.94; P = 0.029). Microbiologically, PICCs showed a significant decrease in gram-positive cocci (P = 0.001) and an increase in gram-positive bacilli (P = 0.002) because of a remarkable reduction in Staphylococci and increase in Corynebacterium species responsible for CLABSI. Our study confirmed that PICC was a superior alternative to CICC in preventing CLABSI in the adult hematology unit, while it posed a microbiological shift in local epidemiology.

2022 international clinical practice guidelines for the treatment and prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer, including patients with COVID-19

The International Initiative on Thrombosis and Cancer is an independent academic working group of experts aimed at establishing global consensus for the treatment and prophylaxis of cancer-associated thrombosis. The 2013, 2016, and 2019 International Initiative on Thrombosis and Cancer clinical practice guidelines have been made available through a free, web-based mobile phone application. The 2022 clinical practice guidelines, which are based on a literature review up to Jan 1, 2022, include guidance for patients with cancer and with COVID-19. Key recommendations (grade 1A or 1B) include: (1) low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) for the initial (first 10 days) treatment and maintenance treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis; (2) direct oral anticoagulants for the initial treatment and maintenance treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis in patients who are not at high risk of gastrointestinal or genitourinary bleeding, in the absence of strong drug-drug interactions or of gastrointestinal absorption impairment; (3) LMWHs or direct oral anticoagulants for a minimum of 6 months to treat cancer-associated thrombosis; (4) extended prophylaxis (4 weeks) with LMWHs to prevent postoperative venous thromboembolism after major abdominopelvic surgery in patients not at high risk of bleeding; and (5) primary prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism with LMWHs or direct oral anticoagulants (rivaroxaban or apixaban) in ambulatory patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer who are treated with anticancer therapy and have a low risk of bleeding.

A prediction model for central venous catheter-related thrombosis in patients with newly-diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia: A derivation cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) is a common complication in cancer patients, that may lead to chemotherapy deferral, elevated risk for systemic infections and pulmonary embolism. This study aimed to assess CRT incidence and risk factors in newly-diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients and create predictive models potentially allowing to decrease CRT occurrence in this population.

METHODS

This retrospective single-center analysis included all AML patients treated at the Rambam Health Care Campus between 2006 and 2019. Patient clinical and laboratory data were collected to evaluate thrombosis occurrence and time from AML diagnosis to CRT development. Multivariate classification models were created using logistic regression (LR) and competing risk analyzes.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 632 newly-diagnosed AML patients (mean age 54 ± 15 years). CRT incidence was 10.1% [confidence interval (CI) 7.7-12.9%], median time from AML diagnosis to CRT was 12.5 days [interquartile range 6-30]. In an LR multivariate model, prior history of venous thromboembolism [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 12.046, p < 0.0001], acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) (AOR 2.824, p = 0.015), a high body mass index and initial platelet counts <100 × 10E9/L (AOR 1.059 and 0.546; p = 0.011 and 0.040, respectively) were significantly associated with high CRT risk. Analysis of 587 non-APL patients demonstrated comparable results, with CRT incidence of 9.3% (CI 7.0%-12.1%) and emergence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as a novel significant co-factor (AOR 34.491, p = 0.004). In both models, the area under curve (AUC) was ≥70%.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant CRT risk factors defined using the created model could be used for identification of high-risk newly-diagnosed AML patients requiring CRT prophylaxis.

Risk Factors for Complications Associated with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters During Induction Chemotherapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Objective Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are widely used in patients with hematologic malignancies. However, the risks of PICC-related complications during chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are not fully understood. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 128 adult patients with AML who received induction therapy by way of PICC insertion between 2012 and 2019. Results The median duration of PICC insertion was 30 days. The incidence rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) was 2.4% at 30 days, and women were more likely to suffer from CRBSI than men. Local reactions at the insertion site were observed in 56 patients; however, these events did not predict CRBSI. The incidence rates of catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) were 1.6% at 30 days. Obesity put patients at an increased risk for CRT. Unexpected PICC removal occurred in 59 patients, and women were at a higher risk of catheter removal than men. Conclusion Low PICC-related complication rates, possibly associated with high rates of catheter removal, were observed during intensive chemotherapy for AML. Women and obese patients require careful monitoring of their PICC. Procedures to achieve appropriate PICC removal without increasing the complication rate need to be considered.

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on choice of central venous access device for delivery of chemotherapy

OBJECTIVE

Ensuring reliable central venous access with the least complications is vital for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. A systematic review and network meta-analysis was conducted to compare the safety, quality of life (QoL) and cost effectiveness of different types of central venous access device (CVAD) for patients receiving chemotherapy.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane were searched from inception to 20^th August 2021 for randomized controlled trials comparing the various CVADs [non-tunnelled central venous catheter (non-tunnelled catheter), peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC), totally implantable ports (PORT), and tunnelled catheter].

RESULTS

A total of 11 eligible RCTs comprising 2585 patients were identified. PORT was associated with lower odds of overall complications, device removal due to complications, thrombotic and mechanical complications compared to PICC [(Odds Ratio (OR) 0.54, 95% CI 0.43 - 0.69), (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.26 - 0.93), (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.23 - 0.62) and (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.13 - 0.95) respectively]. Tunnelled catheter was associated with higher odds of overall complication rate, device removal due to complications and infective complications compared to PORT [(OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.30 - 2.17), (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.34 - 4.73), (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.14 - 3.90) respectively]. Ranking probability based on SUCRA values indicated that PORT had the lowest probability of overall complications, removal due to complications, and thrombotic complications.

CONCLUSION

PORT is superior in terms of complications, QoL compared to other CVADs without compromising on cost effectiveness and should be considered the standard of care in patients receiving chemotherapy.

Construction of a rabbit model with vinorelbine administration via peripherally inserted central catheter and dynamic monitoring of changes in phlebitis and thrombosis

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are used for the administration of chemotherapy drugs, including vinorelbine. The present study aimed to construct a rabbit model with vinorelbine administration via PICC, and to dynamically monitor the formation of phlebitis and thrombosis. PICC was inserted into 48 rabbits following specific clinical procedures. The rabbits were randomly divided (n=6 per group) into the following eight groups: i) Control (PICC in place for 1 day); ii) 2nd day of PICC placement (received the first cycle of vinorelbine administration); iii) 3rd day of PICC placement; iv) 7th day of PICC placement; v) 14th day of PICC placement; vi) 21st day of PICC placement; vii) 23rd day of PICC placement (received the second cycle of vinorelbine administration); and viii) 24th day of PICC placement. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed on catheter, ear vein and anterior vena specimens. Prothrombin time was measured using an automatic coagulation analyzer, followed by routine blood tests. Serum levels of inflammation- and thrombosis-related factors, including C-reactive protein, D-dimer, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, P-selectin and E-selectin, were measured using ELISAs. X-ray examination confirmed that the rabbit model with vinorelbine administration via PICC was successfully constructed. On the 1st and 23rd day of PICC placement, thrombosis was observed in the catheter. Furthermore, on the 1st day of PICC placement, thrombosis was clearly observed in the ear vein and anterior vena samples. After vinorelbine administration, phlebitis occurred in the ear vein and anterior vena cava samples. With increasing time after vinorelbine administration via PICC, thrombosis and phlebitis were notably ameliorated. Moreover, on the day of vinorelbine administration, prothrombin time was significantly decreased and the serum levels of inflammation- and thrombosis-related factors were significantly increased compared with previous days. Collectively, the present study observed the formation and specific evolution of phlebitis and venous thrombosis after vinorelbine administration, providing a reference for the early prediction, timely prevention and treatment of PICC-related chemotherapy complications.

Frequency and risk factors for thrombosis in acute myeloid leukemia and high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes treated with intensive chemotherapy: a two centers observational study

The frequency of thrombosis in AML has been evaluated only in a few studies and no validated predictive model is currently available. Recently, DIC score was shown to identify patients at higher thrombotic risk. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of thromboembolism in AML patients treated with intensive chemotherapy and to assess the ability of genetic and clinical factors to predict the thrombotic risk. We performed a retrospective observational study including 222 newly diagnosed adult AML (210) and high-risk MDS (12), treated with intensive chemotherapy between January 2013 and February 2020. With a median follow-up of 44 months, we observed 50 thrombotic events (90% were venous, VTE). The prevalence of thrombosis was 22.1% and the 6-months cumulative incidence of thrombosis was 10%. The median time to thrombosis was 84 days and 52% of the events occurred within 100 days from AML diagnosis. Khorana and DIC score failed to stratify patients according to their thrombotic risk. Only history of a thrombotic event (p = 0.043), particularly VTE (p = 0.0053), platelet count above 100 × 10⁹/L at diagnosis (p = 0.036) and active smoking (p = 0.025) significantly and independently increased the risk of thrombosis, the latter particularly of arterial events. AML genetic profile did not affect thrombosis occurrence. Results were confirmed considering only thromboses occurring within day 100 from diagnosis. DIC score at diagnosis, but not thrombosis, was independently associated with reduced survival (p = 0.004). Previous VTE, platelet count above 100 × 10⁹/L and active smoking were the only factors associate with increased thrombotic risk in AML patients treated intensively, but further studies are needed to validate these results.

Comparative analysis of infectious complications with outpatient vs. inpatient care for adults with high-risk myeloid neoplasm receiving intensive induction chemotherapy

We recently reported an early hospital discharge (EHD) care strategy following intensive acute myeloid leukemia (AML)-like chemotherapy is safe. To evaluate its impact on infectious outcomes, we compared all adults treated from 8/1/2014 to 7/31/2018 discharging within 72 h of completing chemotherapy (EHD) with hospitalized patients (controls) across 354 induction and 259 post-remission cycles. While overall outcomes were similar, gram-positive bacteremias were more common in EHD patients than control (p<.001), although they received fewer days of IV antimicrobials (p< .001). Notably, cumulative infection risks in EHD patients were similar after induction and post-remission therapy. In multivariable analysis, only EHD status was independently associated with risk for gram-positive bacteremia (p= .01), whereas the only independent risk factor for fungal infection was fluconazole (vs. posaconazole) use (p< .001). The observation of increased rates of gram-positive bacteremias with EHD identifies improvements in catheter management as one area to further increase the safety of this care approach.

A prospective study of the use of central venous catheters in patients newly diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia treated with induction chemotherapy

PURPOSE

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are widely used in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Complications associated with CVCs are frequently encountered and contribute to morbidity and mortality. Prospective studies investigating and comparing complications of different types of CVCs in AML patients and their effects on the quality of life are limited.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective observational study and evaluated the complications associated with the use of CVCs in adult AML patients during induction chemotherapy and evaluated quality of life outcomes as reported by the patients during and after their hospitalization.

RESULTS

Fifty newly diagnosed patients with AML (median age, 59 years) who received intensive induction chemotherapy were enrolled in the study. Twenty-nine patients (58%) had a peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) placed and 21 (42%) patients received a Hickmann tunneled central catheter (TCC). Three percent of cases developed catheter-related thrombosis in PICCs and no thrombosis in TCCs. Catheter-related bloodstream infection was diagnosed in 8% of patients. CVC occlusion occurred in 44 patients (88%). The total number of occlusion events was 128; 97% of patients with PICCs and 76% of patients with TCCs (p = 0.003). All patients reported that the use of CVC simplified their course of treatment. Most patients reported similar restrictions in activity associated with TCCs and PICCs.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that thrombosis and catheter-related bloodstream infections remain important complications of CVCs in AML patients. Occlusion rates were higher with the use of PICCs and the use of CVCs impacted the quality of life.

Analysis of risk factors of PICC-related bloodstream infection in newborns: implications for nursing care

Background

It is necessary to analyze the characteristics and risk factors of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in newborns with peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC).

Methods

Newborns undergoing PICC catheterization in the neonatal department of our hospital from January 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021 were included. The characteristics of newborns with and without CRBSI newborns were compared and analyzed. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the risk factors of CRBSI in newborns with PICC.

Results

Three hundred eighty-six newborns with PICC were included, of whom 41 newborns had the CRBSI, the incidence of CRBSI in newborns with PICC was 10.62%. There were significant differences regarding the birth weight, durations of PICC stay, 5-min Apgar score, site of PICC insertion of PICC between CRBSI and no CRBSI group (all P < 0.05), and there were no significant differences regarding the gender, gestational age, cesarean section, mechanical ventilation and length of hospital stay between CRBSI and no CRBSI group (all P > 0.05). Escherichia coli (26.08%) and Staphylococcus aureus (23.92%) were the most common CRBSI pathogens in newborns with PICC. Logistic regression analysis indicated that birth weight ≤ 1500 g (OR 1.923, 95% CI 1.135–2.629), durations of PICC stay ≥ 21 days (OR 2.077, 95% CI 1.024–3.431), 5-min Apgar score ≤ 7 (OR 2.198, 95% CI 1.135–3.414) and femoral vein insertion of PICC (OR 3.044, 95% CI 1.989–4.306) were the independent risk factors of CRBSI in neonates with PICC (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

For newborns with low birth weight, longer durations of PICC stay and femoral vein PICC insertion, they may have higher risks of CRBSI, and medical staff should take targeted measures to reduce the development of CRBSI.

Catheter-related bloodstream infection associated with multiple insertions of the peripherally inserted central catheter in patients with hematological disorders

Patients with hematological disorders are treated with multiple cycles of chemotherapy. As a result, they often require multiple insertions of the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for prolonged periods of time. Although PICCs have been widely used worldwide in various patients, the safety and feasibility of the multiple insertions of the PICC in this population have not been fully verified. We performed a retrospective analysis to clarify the relationship between complications and multiple PICC insertions in patients with hematological disorders who were treated with either chemotherapy or immunotherapy. A total of 651 PICCs were inserted in 261 patients with a median age of 66 years. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were the most common diseases in our patient cohort. The total catheter days (CDs) was 29,485 days, with a median catheter duration of 30 days. The rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in our patient cohort at high rate of re-insertion was 2.0/1000 CDs. Although multiple PICC insertions were not a risk factor of CRBSI, our findings suggest that a prolonged catheter dwell time may be associated with CRBSI. AML was an important risk factor of CRBSI. While the PICC dwell time depends on the treatment cycle, our findings indicate that it should be limited to approximately 30 days and catheters may be removed and re-inserted as needed.