Usefulness of Sepsis-3 in diagnosing and predicting mortality of ventilator-associated lower respiratory tract infections

BACKGROUND

Early distinguishing ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis (VAT) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) remains difficult in the daily practice. However, this question appears clinically relevant, as treatments of VAT and VAP currently differ. In this study, we assessed the accuracy of sepsis criteria according to the Sepsis-3 definition in the early distinction between VAT and VAP.

METHODS

Retrospective single-center cohort, including all consecutive patients with a diagnosis of VAT (n = 70) or VAP (n = 136), during a 2-year period. Accuracy of sepsis criteria according to Sepsis-3, total SOFA and respiratory SOFA, calculated at time of microbiological sampling were assessed in differentiating VAT from VAP, and in predicting mortality on ICU discharge.

RESULTS

Sensitivity and specificity of sepsis criteria were found respectively at 0.4 and 0.91 to distinguish VAT from VAP, and at 0.38 and 0.75 for the prediction of mortality in VA-LRTI. A total SOFA ≥ 6 and a respiratory SOFA ≥ 3 were identified as the best cut-offs for these criteria in differentiating VAT from VAP, with sensitivity and specificity respectively found at 0.63 and 0.69 for total SOFA, and at 0.49 and 0.7 for respiratory SOFA. Additionally, for prediction of mortality, a total SOFA ≥ 7 and a respiratory SOFA = 4 were identified as the best-cut-offs, respectively yielding sensitivity and specificity at 0.56 and 0.61 for total SOFA, and at 0.22 and 0.95 for respiratory SOFA.

CONCLUSIONS

Sepsis criteria according to the Sepsis-3 definition show a high specificity but a low sensitivity for the diagnosis of VAP. Our results do not support the use of these criteria for the early diagnosis of VAP in patients with VA-LRTI.

Appearance and management of COVID-19 laryngo-tracheitis: two case reports

We present two cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related laryngotracheitis in good-prognosis, ventilated patients who had failed extubation. As the pandemic continues to unfold across the globe and better management of those with respiratory failure develops, this may be an increasingly common scenario. Close ENT-intensivist liaison, meticulous team preparation, early consideration of rigid endoscopy and prospective data collection and case sharing are recommended.

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Complicated with Pseudomembranous Aspergillus Tracheobronchitis in a Patient without Apparent Risk Factors for Invasive Aspergillosis

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a tick-borne infectious disease. A 91-year-old woman was admitted to our intensive-care unit with SFTS, and she developed dyspnea with wheezes 5 days after admission. Bronchoscopy showed scattered white mold in her central airway. An airway tissue biopsy and culture of bronchial lavage fluid revealed fungal hyphae in the necrotic tissue, confirmed as Aspergillus fumigatus. She was thus diagnosed with pseudomembranous aspergillus tracheobronchitis. She had no common risk factors for invasive aspergillosis (IA). Patients with SFTS, even those without apparent risk factors for IA, may be at risk of developing IA.

Carbon Monoxide Releasing Molecule-2-Upregulated ROS-Dependent Heme Oxygenase-1 Axis Suppresses Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Airway Inflammation

The up-regulation of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is mediated through nicotinamaide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases (Nox) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, which could provide cytoprotection against inflammation. However, the molecular mechanisms of carbon monoxide-releasing molecule (CORM)-2-induced HO-1 expression in human tracheal smooth muscle cells (HTSMCs) remain unknown. Here, we found that pretreatment with CORM-2 attenuated the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1) expression and leukocyte count through the up-regulation of HO-1 in mice, which was revealed by immunohistochemistrical staining, Western blot, real-time PCR, and cell count. The inhibitory effects of HO-1 by CORM-2 were reversed by transfection with HO-1 siRNA. Next, Western blot, real-time PCR, and promoter activity assay were performed to examine the HO-1 induction in HTSMCs. We found that CORM-2 induced HO-1 expression via the activation of protein kinase C (PKC)α and proline-rich tyrosine kinase (Pyk2), which was mediated through Nox-derived ROS generation using pharmacological inhibitors or small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs). CORM-2-induced HO-1 expression was mediated through Nox-(1, 2, 4) or p47^phox, which was confirmed by transfection with their own siRNAs. The Nox-derived ROS signals promoted the activities of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Subsequently, c-Fos and c-Jun-activator protein-1 (AP-1) subunits-were up-regulated by activated ERK1/2, which turned on transcription of the HO-1 gene by regulating the HO-1 promoter. These results suggested that in HTSMCs, CORM-2 activates PKCα/Pyk2-dependent Nox/ROS/ERK1/2/AP-1, leading to HO-1 up-regulation, which suppresses the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced airway inflammation.

Extensive upper respiratory tract sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a chronic granulomatous disease of unknown aetiology. It can affect any part of the organism, although the lung is the most frequently affected organ. Upper airway involvement is rare, particularly if isolated. Sarcoidosis is a diagnosis of exclusion, established by histological evidence of non-caseating granulomas and the absence of other granulomatous diseases. The authors report a case of a man with sarcoidosis manifesting as a chronic inflammatory stenotic condition of the upper respiratory tract and trachea.

Treatment of ventilator-associated pneumonia and ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis in the intensive care unit. A national survey of clinicians and pharmacists in Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES

To assess current practices of different healthcare providers for treating extensively drug-resistant (XDR)  Acinetobacter baumannii (AB) infections  in tertiary-care centers in Saudi Arabia. 

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed in  tertiary-care centers of Saudi Arabia between March and June 2014. A questionnaire consisting of 3 parts (respondent characteristics; case scenarios on ventilator-associated pneumonia [VAP] and tracheobronchitis [VAT], and antibiotic choices in each scenario) was developed and sent electronically to participants in 34 centers across Saudi Arabia. 

RESULTS

One-hundred and eighty-three respondents completed the survey. Most of the respondents (54.6%) preferred to use colistin-based combination therapy to treat VAP caused by XDR AB, and 62.8% chose to continue treatment for 2 weeks. Most of the participants (80%) chose to treat VAT caused by XDR AB with intravenous antibiotics. A significant percentage of intensive care unit (ICU) fellows (41.3%) and clinical pharmacists (35%) opted for 2 million units (mu) of colistin every 8 hours without a loading dose, whereas 60% of infectious disease consultants, 45.8% of ICU consultants, and 44.4% of infectious disease fellows preferred a 9 mu loading dose followed by 9 mu daily in divided doses. The responses for the scenarios were different among healthcare providers (p less than 0.0001). 

CONCLUSION

Most of the respondents in our survey preferred to use colistin-based combination therapy and intravenous antibiotics to treat VAP and VAT caused by XDR AB. However, colistin dose and duration varied among the healthcare providers.

Incidence of severe tracheobronchitis and pneumonia in laryngectomized patients: a retrospective clinical study and a European-wide survey among head and neck surgeons

Laryngectomized patients, lacking conditioning of the breathing air in the upper respiratory tract, have reported considerable pulmonary complaints. It is assumed that these patients also run a higher risk of developing severe respiratory infections. Unfortunately, there is little scientific information available about the occurrence of respiratory infections and related health costs in these patients with and without the use of an HME. Therefore, the occurrence of respiratory infections in laryngectomized patients was investigated in the Netherlands Cancer Institute and by means of a survey among head and neck oncology surgeons throughout Europe. The number of tracheobronchitis and/or pneumonia events was retrospectively scored between 1973 and 2013 in medical records of 89 laryngectomized patients treated in our institute. To assess expert experiences and opinions regarding these pulmonary problems, a study-specific survey was developed. The survey was sent by email to head and neck surgeons from ten different countries. In the medical record study, an average of 0.129 respiratory infections per patient/year was found in non-HME users and 0.092 in HME users. In the survey (response rate HN surgeons 20 %; countries 90 %) 0.285 episodes per patient/year in non-HME users was statistically higher than the 0.066 episodes per patient/year in HME users. The average mortality in the HME user group per entire career of each physician was estimated at 0.0045, and for the non-HME user group this was 0.0152. There is a tendency that the number of tracheobronchitis and pneumonia episodes in non-HME users is higher than in HME users.

An unusual case of invasive Aspergillus ulcerative tracheobronchitis without involvement of lung parenchyma in a post-renal transplant patient

We present the case of a 54-year-old male, who presented with respiratory complaints four months after he underwent renal transplantation. Bronchoscopy showed ulcerated mucosa of the left main bronchus and computed tomography (CT) of the thorax showed foci of air within the bronchial wall. A biopsy from the lesion showed septate fungal hyphae, dichotomously branching at acute angles. A locally invasive Aspergillus ulcerative tracheobronchitis with no parenchymal involvement is an important cause of tracheobronchitis in post-renal transplant patients. An early diagnosis and institution of appropriate treatment can improve the outcome. A combination treatment of caspofungin and voriconazole can be considered if patient is not responding to voriconazole alone.

Ulcerative lesions as a rare cause of laryngotracheitis in the pediatric population

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study is to describe a unique finding of ulcerative lesions of the larynx in two pediatric patients presenting with prolonged acute laryngotracheitis and compare to previously described reports to determine the typical clinical picture, need for intervention, and management model.

METHODS

We present two cases of ulcerative lesions of the larynx in immunocompetent children, one with PCR positive HSV, which presented as severe croup requiring intensive care unit admission. Literature review was completed to assess for current knowledge of this entity. Our cases are discussed in the context of previously reported cases of HSV laryngotracheitis. Descriptive analysis was completed focusing on presentation, physical exam findings, treatment, length of therapy, and outcomes.

RESULTS

Literature review uncovered six case reports including 10 individual cases of prolonged croup with findings of HSV laryngitis and one retrospective review describing 15 cases of prolonged croup found to be caused by ulcerative laryngitis. All patients underwent direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy for evaluation. Analysis was completed comparing the studies to our patients with significant findings including high intubation rate of 77%, ulcerative stomatitis in 63%, and treatment with antiviral medication directed at HSV in 85% with improvement in symptoms.

CONCLUSION

It is important to consider HSV as a possible pathogen in cases of prolonged or atypical croup. Laryngoscopy should be used for diagnostic intervention and identification of ulcerative lesions. Stomatitis may be an indication for earlier direct inspection. Treatment with anti-viral therapy and with discontinuation or taper of steroid is suggested.

Inhaled antibiotic therapy for ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis and ventilator-associated pneumonia: an update

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in mechanically-ventilated patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis (VAT) was previously believed to be an intermediate stage between colonization of the lower respiratory tract and VAP. More recent data, however, suggest that VAT may be a separate entity that increases morbidity and mortality, independently of the occurrence of VAP. Some, but not all, patients with VAT progress to develop VAP. Although inhaled antibiotics alone could be effective for the treatment of VAP, the current consensus of opinion favors their role as adjuncts to systemic antimicrobial therapy for VAP. Inhaled antibiotics are increasingly employed for salvage therapy in patients with VAP due to multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria. In contrast to VAP, VAT could be effectively treated with inhaled antibiotic therapy alone or in combination with systemic antimicrobials.

[The state of the larynx in children following repeated and recurrent croup]

The obstructive forms of laryngitis and/or laryngotracheitis are the emergency conditions in the pediatric practice that frequently necessitate hospitalization of the affected patients. According to R.J. Rosychuk and co-workers, such patients make up to 6% of the total number of children admitted to stationary clinics. The authors discuss the problem of recurrent catarrhal croup in the children and its differential diagnosis from other diseases. The results of endoscopic and virological examination of the children with repeated or recurring croup are discussed. The children of this group most frequently present with infections by respiratory syncytial and parainfluenza viruses. The endoscopic examination has revealed various forms of chronic laryngitis in 21 (42%) children, subacute (including reactive) laryngitis in 8 (16%), and the developing nodules in the vocal cords of 15 (30%) patients. Six (12%) patients experienced a change of the quality of voice in the absence of structural alterations in the larynx (functional dysphonia). It is concluded that the results of endoscopic and virological examination do not correlate with one another.

Respiratory tract infections after cardiac surgery: impact on hospital morbidity and mortality

AIM

Nosocomial pneumonia (NP) and tracheobronchitis after cardiac surgery are associated with worse outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with NP and tracheobronchitis after cardiac surgery and to determine the impact of these infections on hospital morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

We evaluated 1600 adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery under standard cardiopulmonary bypass. Data were collected prospectively. All NP and tracheobronchitis episodes were confirmed by a semiquantitative culture of endotracheal aspirate. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify risk factors for respiratory tract infection and mortality.

RESULTS

The rate of NP was 1.2% (15.6 episodes per 1000 days of mechanical ventilation) and that of tracheobronchitis was 1.6% (21 episodes per 1000 days of mechanical ventilation). Significant independent risk factors for respiratory tract infection (pneumonia or tracheobronchitis) were: left ventricular ejection fraction < 30% (P = 0.001), chronic renal failure (P < 0.0001) and urgent surgery (P < 0.0001). Patients with NP had significantly higher mortality (42% versus 0.9%, P < 0.0001) than patients without respiratory tract infection. The median hospital length of stay was significantly longer in patients with pneumonia (42 days) and tracheobronchitis (28 days) than in patients without any respiratory tract infection (11 days, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

NP after cardiac surgery is associated with severe outcomes. Independent risk markers for respiratory tract infection were left ventricular ejection fraction < 30%, chronic renal failure and urgent surgery.

Pseudomembranous tracheobronchitis caused by Aspergillus in immunocompromised patients

We report 2 cases of Aspergillus pseudomembranous tracheobronchitis in patients with diabetes. The first patient succumbed to progressive obstructive respiratory failure despite mechanical ventilation and antifungal therapy. However, the second patient survived. Aspergillus tracheobronchitis should be considered in immuno-compromised patients presenting with cough, chest pain, fever, dyspnea and upper airway obstruction. Early bronchoscopy and histologic examination should be performed. Early, appropriate treatment may be life saving.

[Tracheomalacia inadvertently diagnosed by CT angiography originally performed to rule out pulmonary embolism]

Tracheomalacia is a frequent disease in the older population involving excessive airway collapse and it may present symptoms similar to pulmonary emboli. This is a case study depicting a patient's inadvertent breathing during a CT scan, performed to rule out pulmonary emboli. This examination revealed significant tracheomalacia, a condition usually diagnosed by bronchoscopy or specially tailored CT.

Bacterial tracheitis--not always primary

A child presented with features of bacterial tracheitis with complete response to therapy. He presented with a recurrence one week later. A foreign body in the tracheal wall was diagnosed and removed by bronchoscopy. Tracheal intubation for airway management and tracheal toileting are not enough in bacterial tracheitis; bronchoscopy should be considered to diagnose any underlying cause.

Extracutaneous sporotrichosis in a patient with liver cirrhosis

We report an unusual case of disseminated cutaneous sporotrichosis with oral mucous and tracheal involvement in a forty-year-old male with a history of heavy drinking and liver cirrhosis. We also review the literature and other similar published cases.

Production of pro-inflammatory polypeptides by airway mucous glands and its potential significance

Burn patients often develop respiratory distress and ARDS several days after injury. An ovine model allows experimental study of this problem. In sheep the injury is characterized by intense acute inflammation in the trachea and bronchi from 3 to 48h after injury, with accumulation of neutrophils, fibrin and other plasma proteins, and mucus in airway lumens. We have carried out immunostaining for multiple cytokines in this model, including interleukin-8 (IL-8), Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta), interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1alpha), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). All of these show intense immunostaining in airway mucous glands. IL-1beta and VEGF show substantial constitutive staining in the serous cells of mucous glands, while IL-8, IL-1alpha, and TNF-alpha show substantially increased expression after injury. This pattern of expression of cytokines in mucous glands, and the apparent release of cytokines into the lumen after injury, are considered potentially highly significant in the progression of injury in this model. In addition, a proinflammatory function of mucous glands might prove to be important in chronic lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and asthma.

Assessing the effects of racemic and single-enantiomer albuterol on airway secretions in long-term intubated patients

OBJECTIVE

In vitro data suggest that the S-enantiomer of albuterol can induce mucociliary dysfunction. This clinical study assesses the clinical significance of standard doses of the S-enantiomer on airway secretions in long-term intubated patients by comparing a racemic formulation of albuterol, an R-enantiomer formulation, and normal saline solution.

DESIGN

A placebo-controlled crossover study.

PATIENTS

Fourteen stable intubated patients with a median duration of intubation of 21 months and a median age of 72 years.

SETTING

Long-term ventilator unit in skilled nursing facility.

INTERVENTIONS

Following a 2-week washout period during which regularly scheduled beta2-agonists were discontinued, tracheal aspirates were collected for 4 h/d for a 5-day period to establish baseline values, and the patients were then randomized in crossover manner to each of three nebulized treatments: normal saline solution, racemic albuterol, and R-albuterol. Each treatment was administered three times daily for 5 days, followed by a 2-day washout.

MEASUREMENTS

Tracheal aspirates were analyzed for volume, sodium, chloride, bicarbonate, interleukin (IL)-8, IL-1beta, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

RESULTS

There were no consistent significant differences among the three treatment periods either in terms of volume of secretions or in the concentrations of the electrolytes or the inflammatory indexes. However, all three treatments, including saline solution, were associated with increased secretion volume after the first dose, but this effect was not apparent on subsequent doses.

CONCLUSION

There were no significant differences between racemic albuterol and R-albuterol observed in this study for any of the parameters studied, suggesting that the S-enantiomer does not adversely affect airway secretions at recommended doses. In addition, the routine administration of nebulized beta(2)-sympathomimetic agonists to stable patients undergoing prolonged intubation, for the sole purpose of changing the volume and composition of secretions of airway secretions, is not supported by the results of this study.

Pseudomembranous and obstructiveAspergillustracheobronchitis - optimal diagnostic strategy and outcome

Pseudomembranous and obstructive Aspergillus tracheobronchitis (PMATB/OATB) are still considered to be refractory to therapy and to have a fatal outcome. To evaluate the optimal diagnostic strategy and to describe factors affecting the outcome of PMATB and OATB. Retrospective analysis of four new cases of PMATB and OATB combined with 16 previously reported cases over a 10-year period (1995-2004). Among the four new cases reported and the 16 published cases, four patients survived their infection. The mortality rate was significantly higher in the group of ventilated patients [94% (15 of 16 patients)] than in the group of non-ventilated patients [25% (1 of 4 patients), P < 0.05, Fisher's exact test]. In all 20 patients, diagnosis was established by bronchoscopy. Culture examination of mucous plugs was positive in 8 of 10, culture of the tracheobronchial aspirate was positive in 8 of 12, and bronchoalveolar lavage was diagnostic in 7 of 13 patients. All bronchoscopic techniques were complementary in improving the yield of bronchoscopy. However, microscopy of mucous plugs and/or necrotic material was the best diagnostic modality [positive in 94% (17 of 18 patients)]. Prognosis of PMATB and OATB remains poor. Microscopy of respiratory specimens is the most sensitive tool to confirm the diagnosis. The characteristic appearance of the disease makes it possible to start antifungal therapy immediately.

[Acute myeloid leukemia with Aspergillus tracheobronchitis after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplant]

A 51-year-old female with acute myeloid leukemia was admitted to our hospital in December 2001. Though she had undergone two courses of induction chemotherapy (idarubicin hydrochloride + cytarabine), she failed to achieve a complete remission. In April 2002, while in non-complete remission, she subsequently underwent total body irradiation (TBI) and treatment with cyclophosphamide (CY) and etoposide (VP-16) before receiving an allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplant from her HLA-identical brother. For graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis, she was given tacrolimus and methotrexate. The infused CD34 positive cells provided 8.1 x 10(6) cells per kg. Engraftment was obtained on post-transplant day 14, and there was no evidence of clinical acute GVHD. The use of tacrolimus was discontinued on post-transplant day 60. As there was no occurrence of clinical acute GVHD, the patient received a donor lymphocyte infusion (CD3 cells 0.57 X 10(7) cells per kg) on post-transplant day 105. On day 132, however, she complained of coughing and fever, and on day 135, she was admitted to our hospital again for dyspnea. A CT scan demonstrated ground-glass opacity in the right pulmonary lobe. After considering her clinical course, symptoms, blood gas, CT scans, etc., we suspected interstitial pneumonia. The dyspnea progressively worsened, however, and despite the use of mechanical ventilation from day 143, the patient died on day 149. From the day she was admitted till the day she was intubated, she was unable to produce sputum. Autopsy findings revealed yellow-white tracheal pseudomembranes, as well as Aspergillus hyphae in the trachea, bronchus, and bilateral lungs. These findings are characteristic of Aspergillus tracheobronchitis. The clinical course of Aspergillus tracheobronchitis in allogeneic stem cell transplant recipients is, however, different from that of the usual invasive Aspergillus infection, and although Aspergillus tracheobronchitis is a very rare disease, attention should be paid to the possibility of its occurrence.

[Gastroesophagopharyngeal reflux in infants and children with recurrent symptoms of the upper respiratory tract]

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) plays an important role in pathogenesis of recurrent/chronic disorders of the respiratory tract. Atypical symptoms of GER can be suggested to be cause of the otorhinolaryngological problems. For these last manifestations no cause-effect relationship has yet been proven. There are many therapeutic studies, in which treatment of GERD is examined for its impact on coexisting respiratory disorders. The aim of our study was to confirm the presence of acid reflux by using 24-hour intraesophageal pH monitoring. From the group of 29 patients with recurrent episodes of the pharyngitis, laryngitis and tracheitis, we evaluated 18 children aged 3 months to 8 years (mean, 4.23 +/- 2.85) with coexisting reflux symptoms. The protocol included a parenteral interview, physical examination, roentgenograms of the chest and larynx, laryngoscopy, as well as 24-hour simultaneous proximal and distal esophageal pH monitoring. The most significant differences between examined patients and control subjects was noted in terms of the lowest pH value, number of reflux episodes and index reflux while pH dropped below 4. Every significant drop under pH 6 recorded in proximal esophagus was simultaneous with reflux episode in distal esophagus. We found increased both sensitivity and specificity of the simultaneous pH monitoring in the distal and proximal part of the esophagus comparing to monitoring by the single probe. We confirmed the presence of gastroesophagopharyngeal reflux in patients with recurrent disorders of pharynx, larynx and/or trachea.

Neonatal necrotizing tracheobronchitis: three case reports

Necrotizing tracheobronchitis is a serious affection observed in ventilated newborns, frequently infants with instable hemodynamic state. It is characterized by acute episodes of airway obstruction. The treatment consists of the desobstruction by rigid bronchoscopy. The vascular theory seems to be of utmost importance in the physiopathology. Three cases are reported.

Typ-I-Allergie gegen Schwimmkan�le beim Laryngektomierten

While irritation of the tracheal mucosa is a common finding after laryngectomy, specific hypersensitivity to tracheal tubes or their components is extremely rare and has only been documented as a contact allergy. In this case report, we present type I hypersensitivity to tracheal tube components for the first time. The patient regularly used a special silicone tube for swimming after laryngectomy and complained about increasing tracheal irritation during and after the use of this tube. A standard skin prick test with common aeroallergens and a skin patch test with standard, rubber and adhesive allergens as well as with parts of the silicone tube was performed. Different parts of the tracheal tube were also tested with a scratch test. Total IgE as well as specific IgE for latex allergens was measured. Both skin prick and patch tests were negative. No specific IgE for latex allergens was detected. The scratch test generated strongly positive reactions against native tube material. The positive findings in the skin tests demonstrate specific hypersensitivity to the tracheal tube or its components in terms of a type I hypersensitivity. The causative component remains unclear.

Life-threatening stridor due to membranous tracheitis as a rare complication of endotracheal intubation: report of a case

This report describes a rare case of acute life-threatening stridor due to membranous tracheitis that occurred as a complication of endotracheal intubation, performed for video-assisted thoracotomy. An obstructive fibrin clot was found in the subglottic region by bronchofiberscopy, and removal provided complete relief of the airway obstruction. The mechanism of the development of this fibrin membrane may have interacted with local tracheal trauma from the endotracheal tube. Membranous tracheitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of stridor and airway obstruction after endotracheal intubation because it is a life-threatening complication of this procedure.

The morbidity of Guillain-Barré syndrome admitted to the intensive care unit

Patients with severe forms of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) require intensive care. Specific treatment, catheterization, and devices may increase morbidity in the intensive care unit (ICU). To understand the spectrum of morbidity associated with ICU care, the authors studied 114 patients with GBS. Major morbidity occurred in 60% of patients. Complications were uncommon if ICU stay was less than 3 weeks. Respiratory complications such as pneumonia and tracheobronchitis occurred in half of the patients and were linked to mechanical ventilation. Systemic infection occurred in one-fifth of patients and was more frequent with increasing duration of ICU admission. Direct complications of treatment and invasive procedures occurred infrequently. Life-threatening complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding and pulmonary embolism were very uncommon. Pulmonary morbidity predominates in patients with severe GBS admitted to the ICU. Attention to management of mechanical ventilation and weaning is important to minimize this complication of GBS. Other causes of morbidity in a tertiary center ICU are uncommon.

Focal transmural necrotic tracheitis in commercial meat turkeys

This report describes an unusual presentation of severe focal necrotic tracheitis in a flock of 8-wk-old commercial turkeys. The flock was kept on a range that is located near a cotton field. The cotton field had been chemically defoliated 2 wk before the birds were submitted for necropsy. At necropsy, most of the birds had a 1-cm, yellow-white constricture in the upper third of the trachea at which the lumen was partially occluded by necrotic tissue. Microscopically, there was severe, transmural necrosis with an accumulation of inflammatory exudate in the tracheal lumen and numerous bacteria within the necrotic debris, mucosa, and lamina propria. Mixed bacteria were isolated from the trachea. No viruses were detected. Neither abnormal heavy metal concentrations in the liver nor paraquat in the respiratory tract were detected. The exact cause of this severe, necrotic tracheitis was not determined. Based on the clinical history and laboratory findings, it was concluded that a combination of a toxic irritant, possibly an aerosolized cotton defoliant, and bacterial infections were likely the cause of this lesion.

Nodular invasive tracheobronchitis due to Aspergillus in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

Nodular or pseudomembranous tracheobronchitis due to infection by Aspergillus species is an uncommon presentation of invasive aspergillosis. Most cases have been described in severely immunocompromised hosts. We describe the case of a 23-year-old woman, with recently diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus, who developed worsening respiratory function. Bronchoscopy revealed rapid development and progression of multiple nodular plaques in her trachea and bronchi. Endobronchial biopsy demonstrated invasive fungal infection with tissue necrosis and the presence of hyphal elements consistent with aspergillosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second report of fulminant invasive tracheobronchitis due to Aspergillus in a patient with an autoimmune disease.

Nosocomial tracheobronchitis in mechanically ventilated patients: incidence, aetiology and outcome

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, the organisms responsible for and the impact on outcome of nosocomial tracheobronchitis (NTB) in the intensive care unit (ICU). This prospective observational cohort study was conducted in a 30-bed medical/surgical ICU over a period of 6.5 yrs. All patients ventilated for >48 h were eligible. Patients with nosocomial pneumonia (NP) without prior NTB were excluded. Patients with first episodes of NTB were compared with those without NTB by univariate analysis. The study diagnosed 201 (10.6%) cases of NTB. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common bacteria. NP rates were similar in patients with NTB compared with patients without NTB. Even in the absence of subsequent NP, NTB was associated with a significantly higher length of ICU stay and duration of mechanical ventilation in both surgical and medical populations. Mortality rates were similar in NTB patients without subsequent NP compared with patients without NTB. Antimicrobial treatment in NTB patients was associated with a trend to a better outcome. Nosocomial tracheobronchitis is common in mechanically ventilated intensive care unit patients. In this population, nosocomial tracheobronchitis was associated with longer durations of intensive care unit stay and mechanical ventilation. Further studies are needed to determine the impact of antibiotics on outcomes of patients with nosocomial tracheobronchitis.

[The Fantoni translaryngeal tracheostomy: perioperative complications In a series of 220 consecutive patients]

BACKGROUND

To evaluate problems arisen du-ring Fantoni translaryngeal tracheostomy (TLT).

METHODS

SETTING

intensive care unit.

PATIENTS

220 patients (aged from 18 to 87).

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

coagulopathy, difficult intubation, local infections, previous neck surgery, suspected cervical spine lesion, severe hypoxemia, hemodynamic instability, patients close to be discharged from ICU. Operation: TLT was performed in general anesthesia, using the technique described by Fantoni in 206 cases; in the other 14 cases changes were made.

RESULTS

Perioperative clinical complications were separated from instrumental problems. Clinical complications were 28 (12.7% of TLT): 20 (9.1% of total TLT, 71.4% of total complications) were considered minor and ascribed to medical staff training; among these the complete drawing of the cannula and the difficulty in pushing it in trachea. Eight complications (3.6% of TLT, 28.6% of total complications) were considered major; they were: the impossibility to place the cannula in trachea, the displacement of the prothesis in the peritracheal tissue, the rupture of tracheal ring, the bleeding and the infection of tracheostomy, the dental uprooting. Among instrumental problems, the faulty closure of the ring nut, the overdimension of rigid tracheoscope, and the difficult change of the cannula were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

With expert medical staff, this technique is effective and safe, with a low rate of complications. Major complications were rare, and occurred in spite of patients selection, often needing changing of TLT in surgical tracheostomy.

Endoscopic survey of post-extubation stridor in children

Endotracheal intubation is an important airway procedure in the management of neonates and infants. Prolonged intubation may result in severe laryngeal injury which may lead to chronic laryngeal disability. The nature and causes of post-extubation airway obstruction were evaluated with videoendoscopy. From June 1998 to September 2000, detailed videoendoscopic examination of pediatric airway was performed in 30 children who had persistent stridor after endotracheal extubation or failure of elective extubation. Common locations of post-extubation lesion are the posterior glottis and subglottis. Retrospective analysis of the causes of stridor included: (1) isolated intubation laryngotracheitis (n = 19); (2) intubation laryngotracheitis with neuromuscular dysfunction which resulted in tongue drop, laryngotracheal incoordination, saliva pooling over the larynx or poor cough reflex(n = 5); and (3) specific airway problems such as laryngomalacia, subglottic stenosis or vocal paralysis(n = 6). We favored the term of "intubation laryngotracheitis" instead of "intubation injury" or 'intubation trauma". Although most cases of intubation laryngotracheitis heal, leaving a normal or near-normal larynx, some of them still suffer from airway obstruction after endotracheal extubation. Specific airway problems such as severe laryngomalacia or vocal cords paralysis and neurogenic defects should also be taken into consideration.

Tracheobronchial involvement with Crohn's disease

We report the case of a young woman with Crohn's disease of the bowel who presented with a purulent tracheobronchitis and life-threatening upper airway obstruction. Fibreoptic bronchoscopy demonstrated severe tracheal and upper bronchial pseudotumours and stenosis. The role of recent discontinuation of corticosteroids, for quiescent inflammatory bowel disease, in the development of endobronchial disease and the dramatic response in airway patency after reintroduction of prednisolone in this rare complication of Crohn's disease are discussed.

Tracheobronchitis as an initial presentation of ulcerative colitis

We describe a patient with ulcerative colitis (UC) and the rare extraintestinal manifestation of fulminant tracheobronchitis. A 50-year-old man presented with respiratory compromise and bloody diarrhea. His evaluation showed large airway inflammation with fibrinopurulent debris and colonic inflammation and ulcerations consistent with UC. The etiology for the pulmonary pathology was thoroughly investigated and was thought to be an extraintestinal manifestation of the UC.

An update on inflammatory disorders of the pediatric airway: epiglottitis, croup, and tracheitis

Acute infections of the respiratory tract are common in pediatric patients. Respiratory disease is the leading cause of hospitalization in children less than 4 years of age and is responsible for many physicians' office and emergency department visits.(1) The severity of upper respiratory tract infection ranges from mild, self-limited disease to potentially life-threatening airway obstruction. The prepared clinician can often make a diagnosis based solely on the history and physical examination, using radiographs and laboratory examinations to aid in diagnosis when the clinical picture is unclear. At times, airway collapse is imminent, and the clinician must proceed directly to endoscopy for definitive diagnosis and airway protection. This article will discuss the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management of epiglottitis, croup, and bacterial tracheitis in the pediatric population.

Gastroesophageal reflux in the patients with asthma

Thirty one patients with asthma (mean age was 44.4 10.7; range 18-63) were investigated for gastroesophageal reflux (GER). The patients were separated into two groups according to presence of reflux and/or nocturnal symptoms. 13 patients had one of the reflux and/or nocturnal asthma symptoms (Group 1), whereas 18 patients had none of them (Group 2). To assess GER patients underwent to scintigraphy with Tc99m. GER was determined 4 of 13 patients in group 1 (30,7 %) and 1 of 18 patients in group 2 (5,5 %). There was significant difference between the group 1 and group 2 in that respect (p < 0,001). The patients with established GER (5 patients) were given Omeprazole (a proton pomp inhibitor) 40 mg daily for 4 weeks following a 2 week placebo period. The patients recorded their daily and nocturnal symptoms of asthma, additional salbutamol use, morning and evening peak expiratory flow rates (PEFR) measurements in a daily chart during placebo and omeprazole treatment without changing their antiasthma treatment. Their PEFR, FEV1 values, daily and nocturnal symptoms and additional beta agonist use did not changed after omeprazole treatment except one. But their reflux symptoms (heartburn and regurgitation) were improved. As a consequence, we suggested that asthmatics which have some complaints of reflux should be searched for GER. Not the respiratory functions but GER symptoms can be improved w

[Intratracheal lymphotropic ozone therapy in erosive-ulcerous tracheitis]

Under observation there were 452 patients with chronic stenosis of hollow organs of the neck having cannulas during the period from 3 months to several years. During the tracheobronchoscopic examination it was found that 35 patients had trachea ulcers, 46 patients had erosive tracheobronchitis. The ulcers were localized on the anterior wall of the thoracic part of the trachea. Their diameter was from 1 to 2.5 cm. The ulcers were accompanied by diffuse bilateral bronchitis of the II-III degree of the inflammation intensity. 2-3 ml of ozonated sodium chloride solution with the concentration of ozone in it 5 mg/l were introduced into the ulcer edges, i.e. lymphotropically, into the submucous membrane. The same solution (40-60 ml) was used for daily sanitation of the tracheobronchial tree. Complete epithelization of the ulcers and cleansing of the bronchial tree took 3-4 curative bronchoscopies.

Respiratory infection in the chronically critically ill patient. Ventilator-associated pneumonia and tracheobronchitis

The long-term ventilated patient is at high risk for developing nosocomial pneumonia or tracheobronchitis. In general, the frequency of infection increases with the duration of mechanical ventilation, but the risk appears to be greatest in the first week of intubation. Although these types of infection are common and may have morbidity and mortality impact, the daily risk is less in the long-term ventilated patient than in the acutely ill intubated patient. This reduced daily risk may reflect a "survivor effect," with less healthy patients dying early in the hospital stay and not surviving long enough to undergo tracheostomy and long-term ventilation. A number of factors predispose these patients to infection, including host defense impairment and exposure to large numbers of bacteria. This exposure can occur through the airway, and proper care of respiratory therapy devices is essential to minimize the risk for infection. Most infections of the lower respiratory tract are preceded by airway colonization with EGN bacteria and, with improvement in host defenses and nutrition, infection in the face of colonization is less likely. In some patients, colonization can be eliminated. When the long-term ventilated patient does develop infection, it generally involves highly resistant gram-negative or gram-positive organisms and therapy should be prompt and appropriate. Not all such patients respond to systemic antibiotics, and the use of adjunctive aerosol therapy may have benefit for those with either tracheobronchitis or pneumonia, especially if highly resistant pathogens are present.

[Bacterial tracheitis due to Haemophilus influenzae]

We present a case of bacterial tracheitis in a 6.5 year old girl. Clinical signs and symptoms consisted of severe croup with high grade fever, which were preceded by upper respiratory tract prodrome. Initial treatment with steroids and nebulized epinephrine was unsuccessful. The patient was intubated a few hours after admission. Thick purulent secretions emerging from the trachea and the normal appearance of the epiglottis suggested the diagnosis of bacterial tracheitis, which was confirmed by isolation of Haemophilus influenzae in the culture of the tracheal secretions. The patient was administered a 14 day course of endovenous ceftriaxone and was kept on mechanical ventilation for 7 days. Fever and purulent tracheal secretions continued for the next 5 days. After 48 hours without these signs, laryngotracheobronchoscopy ruled out residual obstruction. Extubation was successfully performed. Fourteen days later physical examination showed no abnormalities and the patient was discharged. No complications were found during followup. The clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of this potentially life threatening entity that should taken into account in the differential diagnosis of severe croup are discussed.

Smoke inhalation-induced alveolar lung injury is inhibited by hyperbaric oxygen

Smoke-induced lung injury in rats was assessed in terms of histopathology, gross mortality, neutrophil accumulation and as capillary leak. Administration of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2), 2.8 atm abs for 45 min, inhibited adhesion of circulating neutrophils subsequent to smoke inhalation. HBO2 reduced pulmonary neutrophil accumulation whether used in a prophylactic manner, 24 h before smoke inhalation, or as treatment immediately after the smoke insult Emphasis was placed on prophylactic administration of HBO2 to avoid the possibility that beneficial effects may be related to hastened removal of carbon monoxide. Based on all parameters tested, smoke inhalation injury was reduced by prophylactic aadministration of HBO2. The beneficial effect appears related to inhibition of neutroophil adhesion to the vasculature.

Pseudomembranous tracheobronchitis caused by Aspergillus in a patient after peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

INTRODUCTION

We report a case of pseudomembranous tracheobronchitis caused by Aspergillus fumigatus 2 years after matched unrelated stem cell transplant.

CLINICAL PICTURE

The patient presented with dyspnoea and obstructive airway disease coinciding with the onset of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Following treatment with higher immunosuppressive therapy for presumptive diagnosis of bronchiolitis obliterans, he subsequently developed recurrent spontaneous pneumomediastinum and progressive respiratory failure.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME

Tracheobronchial biopsy and culture of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid revealed Aspergillus tracheobronchitis. Despite mechanical ventilation and antifungal therapy, he succumbed to progressive respiratory failure.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Aspergillus tracheobronchitis should be suspected in heavily immunosuppressed stem cell transplant recipients presenting with recurrent pneumomediastinum and progressive respiratory failure.

Lower respiratory tract infections in adolescents

Lower respiratory tract infections are an important cause of morbidity and occasional mortality in adolescents. This article reviews lower respiratory tract infections by anatomic location. Laryngotracheitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, and parapneumonic effusions are discussed. Specific viral, bacterial, mycoplasmal, and chlamydial etiologies are discussed. The epidemiology and clinical manifestations of lower respiratory tract infections in adolescents are presented according to anatomic site. Treatment for the spectrum of lower respiratory tract infections is also reviewed. Treatment options include supportive care, humidification, corticosteroids, antivirals, antibiotics, and appropriate drainage. Appropriate drainage of parapneumonic effusions includes thoracentesis, closed-tube thoracostomy, and surgery (thoracoscopy or thoracotomy). Imaging modalities include conventional radiography, computed tomography, and ultrasonography. Emphasis is placed on the common lower respiratory tract infections that affect the normal adolescent population.

[Aspergillosis in pulmonary transplantation]

BACKGROUND

Fungal infections are a frequent cause of morbidity an mortality in transplant recipients. Aspergillus spp. is an ubiquitous fungus capable of producing diverse clinical entities with varying severity.

OBJECTIVE

To study the incidence and severity of Aspergillus spp. infections in lung transplantation, analysing the different clinical presentations and response to antifungal drugs.

METHODS

A review was made of the clinical histories of all patients undergoing lung transplantation who developed positive Aspergillus spp. cultures in our centre between June 1991 and December 1996.

RESULTS

Eleven of 49 transplanted patients (22%) developed Aspergillus spp. infections. Four patients presented invasive aspergillosis forms and 7 tracheobronchitis. In spite of antifungal treatment 3 patients (30%) died of invasive aspergillosis as a direct consequence of the infection. Of the 7 patients with tracheobronchitis, 2 were ulcerative and 1 pseudomembranous, all responded to antifungal treatment. Three patients (10.3%) developed Aspergillus spp. infections despite prophylaxis with itraconazole.

CONCLUSION

Invasive aspergillosis in the immediate posttransplant period was mortal despite treatment. As opposed, aspergillar tracheobronchitis have been overcome using combined treatments of liposomal or lipidic amphotericin, itraconazole and nebulised amphotericin.