Cytomegalovirus surveillance after antiviral prophylaxis in CMV mismatched transplant patients: Does recurrent cytomegalovirus DNAemia impact patient survival?

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) mismatched, donor IgG-positive/recipient IgG-negative, solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are at high risk of CMV invasive disease. Post-prophylaxis disease is an issue in this population. Some programs employ surveillance after prophylaxis (SAP) to limit the incidence of post-prophylaxis disease.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study that included all CMV mismatched SOTRs from 2003 to 2017. Patients underwent SAP with weekly CMV plasma viral load for 12 weeks. The subjects were classified into three post-prophylaxis DNAemia patterns: no DNAemia, one episode of DNAemia, and multiple episodes of DNAemia. We calculated the cumulative incidence of each DNAemia pattern. We also determined 5-year mortality based on DNAemia pattern stratified by organ transplant type.

RESULTS

Post-prophylaxis recurrent DNAemia occurred in 63% of lung recipients and 32% of non-lung recipients (p =  .003). Tissue invasive CMV disease was diagnosed in 3% of the population and CMV syndrome was diagnosed in 33%. Recurrent DNAemia was not associated with 5-year mortality.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort, undergoing SAP tissue invasive disease was uncommon and CMV DNAemia recurrence did not have an impact on long-term mortality.

Evaluation of an HIV homecare program for lost-to-follow-up populations: a mixed methods study in Detroit, Michigan

BACKGROUND

Maintaining people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in clinical care is a global priority. In the Metro Detroit area of Michigan, approximately 30% of PLWHIV are out of care. To re-engage lost-to-follow-up patients, Wayne Health Infectious Disease clinic launched an innovative Homecare program in 2017. In addition to home healthcare delivery, the program included links to community resources and quarterly community meetings. We aimed to evaluate Homecare's impact on participants' ability to stay engaged in HIV care and reach viral suppression. We included data from PLWHIV and their healthcare workers.

METHODS

We used a convergent mixed-methods design, including first year program record review, semi-structured interviews, and a validated Likert scale questionnaire rating illness perception before and after Homecare. Interview data were collected from 15 PLWHIV in Metro Detroit and two healthcare workers responsible for program delivery. Semi-structured interviews focused on obstacles to clinic-based care, support networks, and illness perceptions. Interview data were transcribed and analyzed using a thematic approach. A fully coded analysis was used to create a conceptual framework of factors contributing to Homecare's success. Means in eight categories of the Brief Illness Perception (IPQ) were compared using paired T-tests.

RESULTS

In the first year of Homecare, 28 of 34 participants (82%) became virally suppressed at least once. The program offered (1) social support and stigma reduction through strong relationships with healthcare workers, (2) removal of physical and resource barriers such as transportation, and (3) positive changes in illness perceptions. PLWHIV worked towards functional coping strategies, including improvements in emotional regulation, acceptance of their diagnosis, and more positive perspectives of control. Brief-IPQ showed significant changes in six domains before and after Homecare.

CONCLUSION

Homecare offers an innovative system for successfully re-engaging and maintaining lost-to-follow-up PLWHIV in care. These findings have implications for HIV control efforts and could inform the development of future programs for difficult to reach populations.

The impact of colonization by multidrug resistant bacteria on graft survival, risk of infection, and mortality in recipients of solid organ transplant: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The Global increase in colonization by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria poses a significant concern. The precise impact of MDR colonization in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) remains not well established.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the impact of MDR colonization on SOTR's mortality, infection, or graft loss.

METHODS AND DATA SOURCES

Data from PROSPERO, OVID Medline, OVID EMBASE, Wiley Cochrane Library, ProQuest Dissertations, Theses Global, and SCOPUS were systematically reviewed, spanning from inception until 20 March 2023. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022290011) and followed the PRISMA guidelines. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, PARTICIPANTS, INTERVENTIONS, AND ASSESSMENT OF RISK OF BIAS: Cohorts and case-control studies that reported on adult SOTR colonized by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) or carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. (CRE), or MDR-pseudomonas, and compared to noncolonized, were included. Two reviewers assessed eligibility, conducted a risk of bias evaluation using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and rated certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach.

METHODS OF DATA SYNTHESIS

We employed RevMan for a meta-analysis, using random-effects models to compute pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Statistical heterogeneity was determined using the I2 statistic.

RESULTS

15,202 SOTR (33 cohort, six case-control studies) were included, where liver transplant and VRE colonization (25 and 14 studies) were predominant. MDR colonization significantly increased posttransplant 1-year mortality (OR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.63-3.38) and mixed infections (OR, 10.74; 95% CI, 7.56-12.26) across transplant types (p < 0.001 and I2 = 58%), but no detected impact on graft loss (p 0.41, I2 = 0). Subgroup analysis indicated a higher association between CRE or ESBL colonization with outcomes (CRE: death OR, 3.94; mixed infections OR, 24.8; ESBL: mixed infections OR, 10.3; no mortality data) compared to MRSA (Death: OR, 2.25; mixed infection: OR, 7.75) or VRE colonization (Death: p 0.20, mixed infections: OR, 5.71).

CONCLUSIONS

MDR colonization in SOTR, particularly CRE, is associated with increased mortality. Despite the low certainty of the evidence, actions to prevent MDR colonization in transplant candidates are warranted.

Adjunctive glucocorticoid therapy for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in solid organ transplant recipients: A multicenter cohort, 2015-2020

Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) frequently receive adjunctive glucocorticoid therapy (AGT) for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP). This multicenter cohort of SOTRs with PJP admitted to 20 transplant centers in Canada, the United States, Europe, and Australia, was examined for whether AGT was associated with a lower rate of all-cause intensive care unit (ICU) admission, 90-day death, or a composite outcome (ICU admission or death). Of 172 SOTRs with PJP (median [IQR] age: 60 (51.5-67.0) years; 58 female [33.7%]), the ICU admission and death rates were 43.4%, and 20.8%, respectively. AGT was not associated with a reduced risk of ICU admission (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] [95% CI]: 0.49 [0.21-1.12]), death (aOR [95% CI]: 0.80 [0.30-2.17]), or the composite outcome (aOR [95% CI]: 0.97 [0.71-1.31]) in the propensity score-adjusted analysis. AGT was not significantly associated with at least 1 unit of the respiratory portion of the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score improvement by day 5 (12/37 [32.4%] vs 39/111 [35.1%]; P = .78). We did not observe significant associations between AGT and ICU admission or death in SOTRs with PJP. Our findings should prompt a reevaluation of routine AGT administration in posttransplant PJP treatment and highlight the need for interventional studies.

Incidence of valganciclovir-related leukopenia and neutropenia in solid organ transplant recipients at high risk of cytomegalovirus disease

BACKGROUND

Valganciclovir (VGCV) prophylaxis is associated with an increased risk of hematologic side effects. We analyzed the impact of VGCV prophylaxis on leukopenia and neutropenia rates and explored risk factors for its occurrence.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of adult cytomegalovirus (CMV)-seronegative solid organ transplantation (SOT) recipients of either CMV-seropositive (CMV D+/R-) or CMV-seronegative (CMV D-/R-) donors between July 2005 and March 2019. CMV D+/R- SOT recipients received 3-12 months of VGCV prophylaxis whereas CMV D-/R- SOT recipients received no VGCV prophylaxis. Competing risk regression was used to calculate risk factors for significant neutropenia (neutrophil count < 1000/μL).

RESULTS

A total of 430 CMV-seronegative SOT recipients (median age of 52.1 years, 76.5% males) were included, of which 203 (47.2%) were CMV D+/R- and 227 (52.8%) CMV D-/R-. The unadjusted incidence rate ratio of significant neutropenia attributable to VGCV exposure in the first year post-transplant was 13.50 (95% confidence interval 7.36-27.11). Acute rejection occurred more frequently in neutropenic patients at 32.5% compared to 19.1% in those without neutropenia (p = .033). On multivariate analysis, VGCV prophylaxis for 1-90 days and 91-180 days versus no VGCV were the strongest risk factors for significant neutropenia with a sub-distribution hazard ratio of 39.6 (95% CI, 8.57-182.6) and 13.2 (95% CI, 5.46-32.0), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

VGCV prophylaxis is limited by high rates of neutropenia. Future prospective studies are needed to assess alternative CMV prophylactic strategies in SOT recipients.

How does the antimicrobial stewardship provider role affect prospective audit and feedback acceptance for restricted antibiotics in a Canadian tertiary-care center?

Of 731 restricted antimicrobial prescriptions subject to antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) prospective audit and feedback (PAF) over a 3-year period, 598 PAF recommendations (82%) were fully accepted. Physician auditors had an increased odds of PAF recommendation acceptance, reinforcing the complementary role of the ASP physician in the multidisciplinary ASP team.

Systemic corticosteroids for outpatient respiratory viral infections in lung transplant recipients

INTRODUCTION

Respiratory viral infections (RVI) in lung transplant recipients (LTR) have variably been associated with rejection and chronic lung allograft dysfunction. Our center has used systemic corticosteroids to treat outpatient RVI in some cases, but evidence is limited. We reviewed all adult LTR diagnosed with outpatient RVI January 2017 to December 2019. The primary outcome was recovery of lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1]) at next stable visit between 1 and 12 months postinfection, expressed as a ratio over stable preinfection FEV1 (FEV1 recovery ratio).

METHODS

We identified 100 adult LTR with outpatient RVI diagnoses eligible for study, 36% of whom received corticosteroids. We modelled the adjusted association between corticosteroid use and FEV1 recovery ratio using linear regression.

RESULTS

Steroid-treated patients had a lower FEV1 presentation ratio (0.92 vs. 1.04, p = .0070) and were more likely to have chronic lung allograft dysfunction at time of infection (25% vs. 5%, p = .0077). Mean FEV1 recovery ratio was 1.02 (SD 0.19) with no association with corticosteroid therapy via multivariable linear regression (p = .5888).

CONCLUSIONS

Steroid treatment was not associated with FEV1 recovery. This suggests corticosteroids may not have a role in the management of RVI in this population.

Immunogenicity, Safety, and Breakthrough Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infections After Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination in Organ Transplant Recipients: A Prospective Multicenter Canadian Study

Background

Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients are at risk for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), despite vaccination. Our study aimed to elucidate COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity and evaluate adverse events such as hospitalization, rejection, and breakthrough infection in a SOT cohort.

Methods

We performed a prospective, observational study on 539 adult SOT recipients (age ≥18 years old) recruited from 7 Canadian transplant centers. Demographics including transplant characteristics, vaccine types, and immunosuppression and events such as hospitalization, infection, and rejection were recorded. Follow ups occurred every 4-6 weeks postvaccination and at 6 and 12 months from first dose. Serum was processed from whole blood to measure anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) antibodies of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein to assess immunogenicity.

Results

The COVID-19 vaccines were found to be safe in SOT recipients with low rates of rejection requiring therapy (0.7%). Immunogenicity improved after the third vaccine dose, yet 21% developed no anti-RBD response. Factors such as older age, lung transplantation, chronic kidney disease, and shorter duration from transplant were associated with decreased immunogenicity. Patients with at least 3 doses were protected from hospitalization when experiencing breakthrough infections. Significantly increased anti-RBD levels were observed in patients who received 3 doses and had breakthrough infection.

Conclusions

Three or four doses of COVID-19 vaccines were safe, increased immunogenicity, and protected against severe disease requiring hospitalization. Infection paired with multiple vaccinations significantly increased anti-RBD response. However, SOT populations should continue to practice infection prevention measures, and they should be prioritized for SARS-CoV-2 pre-exposure prophylactics and early therapeutics.

Omicron BA.4/5 neutralization and T-cell responses in organ transplant recipients after Booster mRNA vaccine: a Multicenter Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

In solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, the primary vaccination series against COVID-19 is three doses followed by boosters. We determined whether a fourth dose booster induced Omicron BA.4/5 neutralizing antibodies and T-cells in a large multicenter cohort study.

METHODS

Serum was collected 4-6 weeks post third and fourth dose of mRNA vaccine in 222 SOT recipients. Neutralizing antibodies (nAb) were measured using a pseudovirus neutralization assay targeting the Omicron BA.4/5 spike protein. A subset underwent T-cell testing.

RESULTS

Median age of the cohort was 63 years (IQR 50-68) with 61.7% men. BA.4/5 nAb detection increased from 26.6%(59/222) post third dose to 53.6%(119/222) post fourth dose (p<0.0001). In patients with breakthrough infection prior to fourth dose (n=27), nAb were detected in 77.8% and median nAb titers were significantly higher compared to those with four vaccine doses alone (p<0.0001). Factors associated with a low BA.4/5 neutralization response after fourth dose were older age (OR 0.96, 95%CI 0.94-0.99), mycophenolate use (OR 0.39, 95%CI 0.20-0.77) and prednisone use (OR 0.34, 95%CI 0.18-0.63), and vaccine type (OR 0.72, 95%CI 0.51-0.99) while breakthrough infection prior to fourth dose (OR 3.6, 95%CI 1.3-9.9) was associated with a greater nAb response. Polyfunctional BA.4/5-specific CD4+ T-cells significantly increased after four doses and were identified in 76.9% of patients at a median frequency of 213 per 106 cells (IQR 98-650).

CONCLUSION

In summary, a booster significantly increases BA.4/5-specific neutralization and polyfunctional CD4+ T-cell responses, suggesting protection from severe disease even with new Omicron variants. However, SOT recipients that are older, on mycophenolate and prednisone need further preventative strategies.

Efficacy and safety of antimicrobial stewardship prospective audit and feedback in patients hospitalised with COVID-19 (COVASP): a pragmatic, cluster-randomised, non-inferiority trial

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with increased antimicrobial use despite low rates of bacterial co-infection. Prospective audit and feedback is recommended to optimise antibiotic prescribing, but high-quality evidence supporting its use for COVID-19 is absent. We aimed to study the efficacy and safety of prospective audit and feedback in patients admitted to hospital for the treatment of COVID-19.

METHODS

COVASP was a prospective, pragmatic, non-inferiority, small-unit, cluster-randomised trial comparing prospective audit and feedback plus standard of care with standard of care alone in adults admitted to three hospitals in Edmonton, AB, Canada, with COVID-19 pneumonia. All patients aged at least 18 years who were admitted from the community to a designated study bed with microbiologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in the preceding 14 days were included if they had an oxygen saturation of 94% or lower on room air, required supplemental oxygen, or had chest-imaging findings compatible with COVID-19 pneumonia. Patients were excluded if they were transferred in from another acute care centre, enrolled in another clinical trial that involved antibiotic therapy, expected to progress to palliative care or death within 48 h of hospital admission, or managed by any member of the research team within 30 days of enrolment. COVID-19 unit and critical care unit beds were stratified and randomly assigned (1:1) to the prospective audit and feedback plus standard of care group or the standard of care group. Patients were masked to their bed assignment but the attending physician and study team were not. The primary outcome was clinical status on postadmission day 15, measured using a seven-point ordinal scale. We used a non-inferiority margin of 0·5. Analysis was by intention to treat. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04896866, and is now closed.

FINDINGS

Between March 1 and Oct 29, 2021, 1411 patients were screened and 886 were enrolled: 457 into the prospective audit and feedback plus standard of care group, of whom 429 completed the study, and 429 into the standard of care group, of whom 404 completed the study. Baseline characteristics were similar for both groups, with an overall mean age of 56·7 years (SD 17·3) and a median baseline ordinal scale of 4·0 (IQR 4·0-5·0). 301 audit and feedback events were recorded in the intervention group and 215 recommendations were made, of which 181 (84%) were accepted. Despite lower antibiotic use in the intervention group than in the control group (length of therapy 364·9 vs 384·2 days per 1000 patient days), clinical status at postadmission day 15 was non-inferior (median ordinal score 2·0 [IQR 2·0-3·0] vs 2·0 [IQR 2·0-4·0]; p=0·37, Mann-Whitney U test). Neutropenia was uncommon in both the intervention group (13 [3%] of 420 patients) and the control group (20 [5%] of 396 patients), and acute kidney injury occurred at a similar rate in both groups (74 [18%] of 421 patients in the intervention group and 76 [19%] of 399 patients in the control group). No intervention-related deaths were recorded.

INTERPRETATION

This cluster-randomised clinical trial shows that prospective audit and feedback is safe and effective in optimising and reducing antibiotic use in adults admitted to hospital with COVID-19. Despite many competing priorities during the COVID-19 pandemic, antimicrobial stewardship should remain a priority to mitigate the overuse of antibiotics in this population.

FUNDING

None.

2104. Cytomegalovirus DNAemia Patterns in Mismatched Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) seronegative solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients who receive grafts from seropositive donors are at high risk of CMV disease. Antiviral prophylaxis in usually given to this group of patients to prevent illness. Patients are still at risk of CMV after completion of prophylaxis. Surveillance after prophylaxis is used in some centres to prevent late CMV disease, but there is scant information of its efficacy. Finally, little is known on CMV kinetics post-prophylaxis in high-risk patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study including adult CMV mismatch (D+/R-) SOT recipients between 2003-2017 at a multiorgan transplant center in Canada. Post-prophylaxis CMV kinetics were classified into 3 patterns of DNAemia: no DNAemia, single episode of DNAemia and recurrent episodes of DNAemia. We calculated the cumulative incidence of each DNAemia pattern. We also compared 5-year mortality according to CMV DNAemia pattern by Cox-regression analysis. Patients were monitored weekly with CMV viral load for 12 weeks after completion of prophylaxis.

Results

Two-hundred and forty-five transplant patients were included (Table 1). Median follow up time was 9.2 years (7-12.7). Death occurred in 32 patients during the study period, the median time to death was 7.3 years (4.9-10). Pattern 1 (no CMV DNAemia) occurred in 38%, 27% had a single episode (pattern 2) of CMV DNAemia and 35% had recurrent (pattern 3) CMV DNAemia. Median time to DNAemia was 186 days. The first episode occurred at a significantly shorter interval in liver recipients when compared to non-liver recipients, 158 days (134-217) vs. 208 days (149-315), p=0.0164. Recurrent CMV DNAemia (pattern 3) was significantly more common in lung transplant recipients compared to non-lung transplant recipients. (63% vs. 32% p=0.003).

Mortality at 5 years was statistically not different between CMV patterns, adjusted by organ transplanted and age (Pattern 1 reference; pattern 2 HR 1.484 [0.24-9. Table 1.

1784. Appropriateness of Intravenous Vancomycin in a Canadian Acute Care Hospital

Background

Intravenous (IV) vancomycin is a commonly prescribed antimicrobial. However, there is limited literature assessing IV vancomycin appropriateness. The objective of the study was to assess the appropriateness of IV vancomycin prescriptions in a Canadian acute care hospital.

Methods

Prospective audit and feedback (PAF) was conducted on all new IV vancomycin prescriptions in hospitalized adults (age ≥ 18 years) at the University of Alberta Hospital from January 17 to February 11, 2022. Appropriateness was assessed against institutional prescribing guidelines (Bugs & Drugs® and Alberta Health Services Formulary Prescribing Guidelines). Verbal and written feedback were provided to the attending teams.

Results

A total of 109 prescriptions were audited. Median age was 57 (IQR 43-72) years and 42% were female. 65 (60%) were admitted to Medicine, 18 (17%) to Surgery, and 26 (24%) to Intensive Care units. MRSA colonization was present in 32 (29%) patients, β-lactam allergy recorded in 21 (19%), and acute kidney injury (AKI) in 21 (19%). Infectious Diseases consultation (IDC) occurred in 29 (27%). The top indications were skin and soft tissue, pulmonary, and bloodstream infections (Table 1); 70% of prescriptions were empiric in nature.

Overall, 43 (39%) prescriptions were assessed to be suboptimal. Antimicrobial Stewardship program (ASP) recommendations were made in 56 prescriptions, totaling 63 unique recommendations. Vancomycin was recommended to be discontinued in 24 (43%) cases or changed to a different agent in 15 (27%). Regimen optimization (duration or frequency change) was recommended in 4 (7%). ASP recommended investigations in 8 cases and IDC in 12. Full or partial acceptance was achieved in 49 cases (88%).

IDC was associated with greater appropriateness (83% vs 53%, p=0.004) as was MRSA colonization (75% vs 55%, p=0.047), but AKI was not (62% vs 60%, p=0.888). Adjusting for age, AKI, and MRSA colonization, IDC remained a significant predictor of vancomycin appropriateness (OR=4.27, [95%CI 1.44-12.70]; p=0.009).

Conclusion

IV vancomycin prescriptions were suboptimal in 39% of cases. IDC was associated with increased appropriateness. This pilot informs the need for antimicrobial stewardship intervention and the importance of IDC at our center.

Disclosures

Dima Kabbani, MD, MSc, AVIR Pharma: Grant/Research Support|AVIR Pharma: Honoraria|GSK: Honoraria|Merck: Grant/Research Support.

872. Voriconazole Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM): How Common is Autoinduction?

Background

Therapeutic drug monitor (TDM) guided optimized dosing of Voriconazole allows optimal drug exposure in the management of mold infection (MI). In addition to already known nuances in pharmacokinetics such as CYP2C19 genetic polymorphism and the role of drug interactions both necessitating TDM, case reports have suggested that auto-induction may occur after initially achieving a therapeutic level. We assessed whether the levels of Voriconazole can change over time and become subtherapeutic due to auto-induction.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled, adults ≥ 18 y.o of age, on Voriconazole for the treatment of MI at the University Of Alberta Hospital. After achieving an initial therapeutic margin, (1–5.5mg/l), we monitored Voriconazole levels twice a month, using high-performance liquid chromatography, until discontinuation or at 12 weeks of therapy. We calculated the incidence of Voriconazole sub-therapeutic concentrations (auto-induction) defined as drop of Voriconazole level below one, with previous concentrations between the therapeutic margins of 1–5.5 mg/L. Adjustment of Voriconazole dosing in case of auto-induction was at the discretion of the treating physician. The excess Voriconazole dose adjustment was calculated in patients where dosing was increased.

Results

Between January 2021 and April 2022, we enrolled 12 patients. Median age (IQR) was 62 (52–73), and 25 % were female. Patient characteristics are in table 1. Auto-induction was observed in 6/10 (60%) who completed 12 weeks follow up blood work. Median time to auto-induction was of 46 days (39–55). Voriconazole dosing was increased in 4/6 patients with auto-induction. Of the four patients with dose adjustment, the cumulative Voriconazole dose was 13% higher than expected, which correspond to 5,300 mg excess Voriconazole per patient to maintain therapeutic levels.

Conclusion

Auto-induction is common in patients treated with Voriconazole. Future studies are needed to assess if undetected auto-induction affects outcomes.

Funding: AVIR Pharma.

Disclosures

Carlos Cervera, Associate Professor, Astra-Zeneca: Advisor/Consultant|AVIR Pharma: Grant/Research Support|AVIR Pharma: Honoraria|Lilly: Advisor/Consultant|Merck: Advisor/Consultant|Merck: Grant/Research Support|Merck: Honoraria|Sunovion: Advisor/Consultant|Takeda: Advisor/Consultant|Takeda: Honoraria|VerityPharma: Advisor/Consultant Dima Kabbani, MD, MSc, AVIR Pharma: Grant/Research Support|AVIR Pharma: Honoraria|GSK: Honoraria|Merck: Grant/Research Support.

2111. Impact of Colonization by Multi Drug Resistant Bacteria on Graft Survival, Risk of Infection, and Mortality in Recipients of Solid Organ Transplant: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Colonization with multi-drug resistant bacteria (MDR) in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients increases the risk of post-transplant bacterial infection. MDR colonization impact on graft survival and mortality is not well established.

Methods

A search was executed by an expert librarian on PROSPERO, OVID Medline, Ovid EMBASE, Wiley Cochrane Library, ProQuest dissertations and Theses Global and SCOPUS, from inception until October 26, 2021. Adult SOT colonized with Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE), Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) or AmpC producing bacteria, carbapenem resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), or MDR Pseudomonas were included and compared to non-colonized SOT. Pairs of reviewers screened abstracts and full studies for inclusion, and extracted data independently. We used RevMan to conduct a meta-analysis using random effects models to calculate the pooled risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for the incidence of infection, mortality, and graft failure. Statistical heterogeneity was determined using the I² statistic. Figure-1

PRISMA chart, systemic review and metanalysis on Impact Of Colonization By Multi Drug Resistant Bacteria on Graft Survival, Risk of Infection, and Mortality in Recipients of Solid Organ Transplant.

Results

59 articles spanning from 1989 to 2021 were included (Figure-1). Liver transplant (43 studies) and VRE colonization (17 studies) were the most common organ and MDR pathogen. MDR surveillance was performed by culture (71%) and PCR (6.7%). In liver transplant recipients, VRE and MRSA colonization were associated with increased infection risk, but not mortality (VRE infection: RR= 2.40 (95%CI 1.54-3.73; p< 0.001), I²= 66%; VRE mortality: RR= 1.64 (95%CI 0.88-3.05; p=0.12), I²= 44%; MRSA infection: RR= 4.07 (95%CI 2.66-6.24; p< 0.001), I²= 59%; MRSA mortality RR=1.47 (95%CI 0.79-2.76; p=0.23), I²= 35%). ESBL and CRE colonization were associated with increased risk of infection (ESBL: RR=9.87 (6.12-15.93); p< 0.001), I²=13%; CRE: RR= 13.64 (95%CI 5.73-32.47); p< 0.001), I²= 66%). CRE colonization was associated with increased mortality, RR=5.79 (95% CI 1.80-18.63; p=0.003), I²=0%.

Conclusion

While colonization with MRSA and VRE in liver transplant was not associated with increase mortality, CRE colonization was associated with almost 6-fold increased risk of death. These data should be taken into account when stratifying the risk of transplant.

Disclosures

Carlos Cervera, Associate Professor, Astra-Zeneca: Advisor/Consultant|AVIR Pharma: Grant/Research Support|AVIR Pharma: Honoraria|Lilly: Advisor/Consultant|Merck: Advisor/Consultant|Merck: Grant/Research Support|Merck: Honoraria|Sunovion: Advisor/Consultant|Takeda: Advisor/Consultant|Takeda: Honoraria|VerityPharma: Advisor/Consultant Dima Kabbani, MD, MSc, AVIR Pharma: Grant/Research Support|AVIR Pharma: Honoraria|GSK: Honoraria|Merck: Grant/Research Support.

Immune-Based Therapy for Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19 and Risk of Secondary Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

Immune-based therapies are standard-of-care treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients requiring hospitalization. However, safety concerns related to the potential risk of secondary infections may limit their use.

Methods

We searched OVID Medline, Ovid EMBASE, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, clinicaltrials.gov, and PROSPERO in October 2020 and updated the search in November 2021. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Pairs of reviewers screened abstracts and full studies and extracted data in an independent manner. We used RevMan to conduct a meta-analysis using random-effects models to calculate the pooled risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI for the incidence of infection. Statistical heterogeneity was determined using the I ² statistic. We assessed risk of bias for all studies and rated the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. We conducted a meta-regression using the R package to meta-explore whether age, sex, and invasive mechanical ventilation modified risk of infection with immune-based therapies. The protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021229406).

Results

This was a meta-analysis of 37 RCTs including 32 621 participants (mean age, 60 years; 64% male). The use of immune-based therapy for COVID-19 conferred mild protection for the occurrence of secondary infections (711/15 721, 4.5%, vs 616/16 900, 3.6%; RR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.71-0.95; P = .008; I ² = 28%). A subgroup analysis did not identify any subgroup effect by type of immune-based therapies (P = .85). A meta-regression revealed no impact of age, sex, or mechanical ventilation on the effect of immune-based therapies on risk of infection.

Conclusions

We identified moderate-certainty evidence that the use of immune-based therapies in COVID-19 requiring hospitalization does not increase the risk of secondary infections.

Efficacy and safety of antimicrobial stewardship prospective audit and feedback in patients hospitalized with COVID-19: A protocol for a pragmatic clinical trial

Background

The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics is widespread in patients with COVID-19 despite a low prevalence of bacterial co-infection, raising concerns for the accelerated development of antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is vital but there are limited randomized clinical trial data supporting AMS interventions such as prospective audit and feedback (PAF). High quality data to demonstrate safety and efficacy of AMS PAF in hospitalized COVID-19 patients are needed.

Methods and design

This is a prospective, multi-center, non-inferiority, pragmatic randomized clinical trial evaluating AMS PAF intervention plus standard of care (SOC) versus SOC alone. We include patients with microbiologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection requiring hospital admission for severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Eligible ward beds and critical care unit beds will be randomized prior to study commencement at each participating site by computer-generated allocation sequence stratified by intensive care unit versus conventional ward in a 1:1 fashion. PAF intervention consists of real time review of antibacterial prescriptions and immediate written and verbal feedback to attending teams, performed by site-based AMS teams comprised of an AMS pharmacist and physician. The primary outcome is clinical status at post-admission day 15 measured using a 7-point ordinal scale. Patients will be followed for secondary outcomes out to 30 days. A total of 530 patients are needed to show a statistically significant non-inferiority, with 80% power and 2.5% one-sided alpha assuming standard deviation of 2 and the non-inferiority margin of 0.5.

Discussion

This study protocol presents a pragmatic clinical trial design with small unit cluster randomization for AMS intervention in hospitalized COVID-19 that will provide high-level evidence and may be adopted in other clinical situations.

Trial registration

This study is being performed at the University of Alberta and is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04896866) on May 17, 2021.

Association between Gut Colonization of Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci and Liver Transplant Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) colonization is common in liver transplant recipients and has been associated with worse post-transplant outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study at the University of Alberta Hospital including patients who underwent a liver transplant between September 2014 and December 2017.

RESULTS

Of 343 patients, 68 (19.8%) had pre-transplant VRE colonization and 27 (27/275, 9.8%) acquired VRE post-transplant, 67% were males and the median age was 56.5 years. VRE colonized patients at baseline had higher MELD scores and required longer post-transplant hospitalization. VRE colonization was associated with increased risk of early acute kidney injury (AKI) (64% vs 52%, p = 0. 044), clinically significant bacterial/fungal infection (29% vs 17%, p = 0. 012) and invasive VRE infection (5% vs 1%, p = 0. 017). Mortality at 2-years was 13% in VRE-colonized versus 7% in non-colonized (p = 0.085). On multivariate analysis, VRE colonization increased the risk of post-transplant AKI (HR 1.504, 95% CI: 1.077-2.100, p = 0.017) and clinically significant bacterial or fungal infection at 6 months (HR 2.038, 95%CI: 1.222-3.399, p = 0.006), and was associated with non-significant trend towards increased risk of mortality at 2-years post-transplant (HR 1.974 95% CI 0.890-4.378; p = 0.094).

CONCLUSIONS

VRE colonization in liver transplant patients is associated with increased risk of early AKI, clinically significant infections, and a trend towards increased mortality at 2-years. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

10. Impact of Infectious Disease Consultation and Theoretical Management Bundle in Patients with Candidemia

Background

Candidemia is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The impact of infectious diseases consultation (IDC) on clinical outcomes in patients with candidemia is not well established. We evaluated the impact of IDC and a management bundle on clinical outcomes in patients with candidemia.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of adult (age ≥ 18 years) patients with at least 1 blood culture growing Candida species identified at Alberta Precision Laboratories between December 1, 2019 to November 30, 2020 and hospitalized at the University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Canada were included. Patients who died within 48 hours and those who left against medical advice within 24 hours of initial positive blood culture result were excluded. Demographics, management, and outcome data were collected. A complete management bundle was defined as having all the following elements performed: IDC, repeat blood cultures, empiric echinocandin therapy, ophthalmology consult, and echocardiogram.

Results

Thirty-one patients were included for study; mean age was 56 ± 17 years and 65% were male. 14 (45%) cases were admitted under critical care, 7 (23%) surgery, and 10 (32%) medicine. 3/17 (18%) required intensive care unit admission following candidemia diagnosis. Candida albicans was identified in more than half the cases. The primary source was intra-abdominal in 12 (39%), central-line associated in 8 (26%), and urinary in 6 (19%). IDC occurred in 27 cases (87%), echocardiogram in 22 (71%), ophthalmology consult in 10 (32%), and follow-up blood cultures in 30 (97%). 20 (65%) patients received empiric echinocandin. Of the remainder who received empiric fluconazole, 4 (36%) grew non albicans Candida species.

Higher in-hospital mortality was observed in cases without IDC than those with IDC (4/4, 100% vs 8/27, 29.6%, p=0.016) and in those that did not have a complete bundle (12/25, 48% vs 0/6, p=0.059). However, IDC was not associated with the receipt of individual bundle components nor the complete bundle (p=NS).

Conclusion

In patients with candidemia, lower in-hospital mortality was observed in patients who received IDC. Larger studies are required to confirm our findings and assess whether the implementation of a candidemia management bundle is beneficial.

Disclosures

Dima Kabbani, MD, AVIR Pharma (Grant/Research Support, Other Financial or Material Support, Speaker)Edesa Biotech (Scientific Research Study Investigator)Merck (Scientific Research Study Investigator)

117. How Does Antimicrobial Stewardship Provider Role Affect Prospective Audit and Feedback Acceptance by the Attending Physician?

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) teams are commonly multidisciplinary. The effect of AMS provider role on prospective audit and feedback (PAF) acceptance has previously been investigated with mixed results. PAF of restricted antimicrobials (carbapenems, linezolid, daptomycin, and tigecycline) in adult inpatients at our large Canadian academic centre has been performed since 2018. Actionable feedback is communicated via chart note plus one of a phone call, direct message, or in-person discussion with the most responsible physician of the attending team in order to optimize the prescription if deemed necessary. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of AMS provider role on PAF acceptance.

Methods

A 3 year retrospective review of all PAF events was undertaken. All audited prescriptions were included. Logistic regression was used to determine odds ratios for acceptance for individual AMS provider roles of pharmacist, physician, and supervised post-graduate physician trainee.

Results

Out of 1896 prescriptions audited, actionable feedback was provided to the most responsible physician in 731 (39%) cases. 677/731 (93%) of audited antibiotics were carbapenems. The overall acceptance rate was 82% (598/731). Acceptance rate and odds of acceptance based on AMS provider role were as follows: pharmacist alone 171/208 (82%), OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.70-1.59, physician alone 141/160 (88%), OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.12-3.20, pharmacist-physician duo 211/268 (79%), OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.50-1.07, and supervised post-graduate physician trainee 75/95 (79%), OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.48-1.41.

Conclusion

The overall acceptance rate was high. There was a higher odds of acceptance if an AMS physician was providing PAF alone, highlighting the importance of physician involvement.

Disclosures

Dima Kabbani, MD, AVIR Pharma (Grant/Research Support, Other Financial or Material Support, Speaker)Edesa Biotech (Scientific Research Study Investigator)Merck (Scientific Research Study Investigator)

Clinical impact of vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization in nonliver solid organ transplantation and its implications for infection control strategies: A single-center, 10-year retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) colonization in nonliver solid organ transplantation (SOT) is poorly defined. Infection control management of these patients is influenced by the association of VRE with adverse outcomes in liver transplantation. This study examines the frequency and clinical impact of VRE colonization specifically on nonliver SOT patients and discusses implications for nosocomial VRE control.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all nonliver SOT patients at a single transplant center from 2005 to 2015. We determined colonization rates in the peritransplant period and the rate of VRE infections. The association between VRE colonization with 90-day mortality and other clinical outcomes was examined.

RESULTS

There were 1786 nonliver SOTs from 2005 to 2015, with 81 (4.6%) colonized with VRE in the peritransplantation period. The colonization prevalence varied by organ type: 45 of 423 lung (10.6%), 12 of 352 heart (3.4%), one of 18 heart-lung (5.6%), 20 of 884 kidney (2.3%), three of 63 kidney-pancreas (4.8%), zero of 11 pancreas, zero of five small bowel, and zero of 11 multivisceral. Peritransplant VRE colonization was not associated with 90-day mortality odds ratio = 2.35 (95% CI = 0.53, 10.29) and adjusted odds ratio = 1.52 (95% CI = 0.34, 6.88). In the multivariable logistic regression, there was no association with mortality at 1 year or 5 years, hospital length of stay, rehospitalization, or days alive out of hospital. There were 14 inpatient VRE infections up to 1 year after transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Nonliver SOT patients have lower rates of VRE colonization than liver SOT, and colonization was not associated with increased adverse clinical outcomes. Although infection control strategies for VRE in hospital remain controversial, nonliver SOT should be considered among typical hospitalized patients when designing strategies for prevention.

Donor Graft Cytomegalovirus Serostatus and the Risk of Arterial and Venous Thrombotic Events in Seronegative Recipients After Non-Thoracic Solid Organ Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common opportunistic pathogen, following solid organ transplantation (SOT), that leads to direct and indirect effects. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of CMV exposure at transplantation on the rate of posttransplant thrombotic events (TEs).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients transplanted at the University of Alberta Hospital between July 2005 and January 2018. We included adult SOT CMV-seronegative recipients at transplantation who received an allograft from either a seropositive donor (D+/R-) or a seronegative donor (D-/R-).

RESULTS

A total of 392 SOT recipients were included: 151 (39%) liver, 188 (48%) kidney, 45 (11%) pancreas, and 8 (2%) other transplants. The mean age was 47 years, 297 (76%) were males, and 181 (46%) had a CMV D+/R- donor. Patients in the CMV D+/R- cohort were slightly older (51 years versus 48 years in the D-/R- cohort; P = .036), while other variables, including cardiovascular risk factors and pretransplant TEs, were not different between groups. Overall, TEs occurred in 35 (19%) patients in the CMV D+/R- group, versus 21 (10%) in the CMV D-/R- group, at 5 years of follow-up (P = .008); the incidence rates per 100 transplant months were 5.12 and 1.02 in the CMV D+/R- and CMV D-/R- groups, respectively (P = .003). After adjusting for potential confounders with a Cox regression model, a CMV D+/R- transplantation was independently associated with an increased risk of a TE over 5 years (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.027; 95% confidence interval, 1.669-5.488).

CONCLUSIONS

A CMV D+/R- transplantation is associated with an increased risk of a TE posttransplantation.

Pneumocystis jirovecii: a review with a focus on prevention and treatment

Introduction: Pneumocystis jirovecii (PJ) is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that can cause severe pneumonia in immunocompromised hosts. Risk factors for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) include HIV, organ transplant, malignancy, certain inflammatory or rheumatologic conditions, and associated therapies and conditions that result in cell-mediated immune deficiency. Clinical signs of PJP are nonspecific and definitive diagnosis requires direct detection of the organism in lower respiratory secretions or tissue. First-line therapy for prophylaxis and treatment remains trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), though intolerance or allergy, and rarely treatment failure, may necessitate alternate therapeutics, such as dapsone, pentamidine, atovaquone, clindamycin, primaquine and most recently, echinocandins as adjunctive therapy. In people living with HIV (PLWH), adjunctive corticosteroid use in treatment has shown a mortality benefit.Areas covered: This review article covers the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, microbiology, prophylaxis indications, prophylactic therapies, and treatments.Expert opinion: TMP-SMX has been first-line therapy for treating and preventing pneumocystis for decades. However, its adverse effects are not uncommon, particularly during treatment. Second-line therapies may be better tolerated, but often sacrifice efficacy. Echinocandins show some promise for new combination therapies; however, further studies are needed to define optimal antimicrobial therapy for PJP as well as the role of corticosteroids in those without HIV.

1093. Infectious Complications after Pancreatic Islet Transplantation

Background

Despite the significant advancement in islet transplantation over the past three decades, our understanding of infectious complications post islet transplant remains limited.

Methods

This is a single center retrospective review of Islet transplant recipients at the University of Alberta between February 2006 and December 2015. All infectious episodes events occurring after transplant were categorized as opportunistic and non-opportunistic.

Results

We analyzed 142 patients receiving a median of 2 islet transplants per patient, with 18 patients receiving 1 transplant (13%), 77 (54%) 2, 33 (23%) 3, 13 (9%) 4 and 1(1%) 5 transplants. Median age at first transplant was 50 years and 85 (47%) were male. Lymphocyte depleting agent with thymoglobulin or alemtuzumab was used for induction in 94% in first and 53% in second transplant. CMV serostatus was CMV D+/R- 61 (43%), CMVD+/R+ 52 (37%), CMVD-/R+ 16 (11%) and CMVD-/R- 13 (9%). CMV infection occurred in 21 patients (15%) [CMVD+/R- 6 (9.8%) and CMVR+ 15 (22.1%), p=0.06]. Other opportunistic infections included VZV 7 (4.9%), Nocardia 3(2.1%), and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia 1. Non-opportunistic infections included skin and soft tissue infection 14 (9.9%), urinary tract infection 11 (7.7%), pneumonia 7 (4.9%) clostridium difficile infection (CDI) 4 (2.8%), and non-CDI gastroenteritis 5 (3.5%) (Table 1).

Table 1: Infectious Complication post islet transplant

Conclusion

Although the rate of infections after islet cell transplant is less frequent than other types of transplants, opportunistic infections, especially CMV, are not uncommon and should be considered in this setting.

Disclosures

Carols Cervera, MD, PHD, Merk (Grant/Research Support, Scientific Research Study Investigator, Advisor or Review Panel member, Other Financial or Material Support, Lecture fees) James Shapiro, MD, PHD FRCS(Eng) FRCSC MSM FRSC, ViaCyte (Consultant) Dima Kabbani, MD, Merck (Research Grant or Support)

Granuloma in the explanted lungs: Infectious causes and impact on post-lung transplant mycobacterial infection

INTRODUCTION

The significance of granuloma in explanted lungs of lung transplant recipients (LTR) on the development of post-transplant mycobacterial infection is unclear.

METHODS

A retrospective review comparing LTRs and heart-lung transplant (H-LTR) recipients with granuloma in the explanted lungs between 2000 and 2012 (excluding those LTRs with granuloma due to sarcoidosis) and LTRs or H-LTRs without granuloma. Patients were followed for 2 years post-transplant.

RESULTS

A total of 144 LTRs and 4 H-LTRs with granulomas (75 necrotizing and 73 non-necrotizing) and a comparator cohort of 144 LTRs and 4 H-LTRs without granuloma were analyzed. In LTRs with granulomas, identification of infectious organisms was more common by histopathology (35 AFB and 22 fungal) compared to cultures (six NTM and seven fungal) taken around time of the transplant. LTRs with granulomas were more likely to have pre-transplant non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection compared to LTRs without granuloma; P < .01. In the multivariate analysis, having granuloma or positive mycobacterial cultures at time of transplant were associated with increased risk of post-transplant mycobacterial infection (HR = 1.8 95% CI [1.024-3.154]; P = .041 and HR = 2.083 95% CI [1.011-4.292]; P = .047). Although there was a trend toward increase mycobacterial disease in those with granulomas P = .056, there was no difference in survival post-transplantation between those with or without granuloma in the explanted lung; P = .886.

CONCLUSION

The presence of granuloma in the explanted lungs of LTRs or positive mycobacterial cultures at time of transplant is associated with an increased risk of mycobacterial infection post-transplant.

2646. Incidence of Myelosuppression Related to Valganciclovir Prophylaxis in Solid-Organ Transplant Recipients at High Risk of CMV Disease

Background

Valganciclovir (VGCV) prophylaxis in solid-organ transplant patients (SOT) is limited by myelotoxicity. We aimed to analyze the impact of VGCV prophylaxis on myelotoxicity and risk factors for its occurrence.

Methods

Retrospective single-center cohort study of adult CMV-seronegative recipients transplanted between July 2005 and November 2017. CMV D+/R− recipients received 3 to 6 months of VGCV prophylaxis whereas CMV D-/R- received no VGCV. Definitions: leukopenia < 3.5 × 10⁹/L, significant neutropenia < 1.0 × 10⁹/L and significant thrombocytopenia < 50 × 10⁹/L.

Results

A total of 363 SOT recipients were included, 169 (47%) CMV D+/R− and 194 (53%) CMV D−/R−, with a mean age of 49.5 years and 275 (76%) males; types of organ transplant: 133 (37%) liver, 181 (50%) kidney, 37 (10%) simultaneous kidney-pancreas and 12 (3%) other. Although there was no difference in the incidence of significant neutropenia or thrombocytopenia per transplant type, leukopenia in the first year was more common in liver transplant patients (P < 0.001). New onset leukopenia post-SOT, significant neutropenia (Figure 1) and significant thrombocytopenia in the first year were more common in patients receiving VGCV: 116 D+/R− (69%) vs. 52 D−/R− (31%), P < 0.001; 86 (91%) vs. 9 (9%), P < 0.001; 8 (80%) vs. 2 (20%), P = 0.050; respectively. G-CSF was used more frequently in patients receiving prophylaxis (60% CMV D+/R− vs. 10% CMV D−/R−, P < 0.001). Significant neutropenia had no impact on long-term mortality adjusted by age and transplant type (HR 1.1, 95% CI 0.6–2.1, P = 0.709). Significant neutropenia led to decrease immunosuppression in 90% of patients (vs. 46%, P < 0.001) and was associated with increased risk of rejection (HR 8.5, P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis for significant neutropenia in the first year, VGCV prophylaxis was the only predictor of this outcome after adjusting for confounders (HR 15.1, 95% CI 7.5–30.1, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

VGCV prophylaxis increased the risk of significant neutropenia by 15-fold post-SOT. No other clinical variables were useful to predict this complication. Therefore, complete blood count monitoring is still needed for all SOT recipients receiving VGCV prophylaxis.

Disclosures

All authors: No reported disclosures.

1754. Pre-Transplant Vaccination Rates in Solid-Organ Transplant Recipients

Background

Recipients of solid-organ transplants (SOT) are at increased risk of vaccine-preventable illnesses. Because of the immunosuppression administered following SOT, live vaccines are generally contraindicated post-SOT, and response to inactivated vaccines may be suboptimal. National and international guidelines recommend optimizing immunizations prior to SOT. We analyzed rates of vaccination for SOT candidates in a cohort of adult kidney and liver transplant recipients.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of adult kidney, kidney/pancreas (KP) and liver transplant recipients was conducted between 2014 and 2016. We calculated the rates of vaccinations of the following vaccines: pneumococcus, meningococcus, Hepatitis A and B, Haemophilus influenzae type B, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

Results

300 patients were included (147 kidney, 14 KP, 139 liver). Liver recipients were older (mean age 53 vs. 50; P = 0.028) and less likely to have had a previous transplant (5.8% vs. 21.1%; P < 0.001) or a living donor (15.8% vs. 32.3%, P = 0.01). Liver recipients were more likely to have been vaccinated against hepatitis A (106 [53.9%] vs. 28 [17.4%]; P < 0.001). Kidney and KP recipients were more likely to have received at least 1 dose of hepatitis B vaccine (138 [85.7%] vs. 91 [65.5%]; P < 0.001) or at least 1 dose of any of the pneumococcal vaccines (PSV23 94 [67.6%] vs. 92 [57.1%]; P = 0.062; PCV13 130 [80.7%] vs. 93 [66.9%]; P = 0.006; pneumococcal vaccine not clarified 47 [29.2%] vs. 14 [10.1%]; P < 0.001). No difference was observed with regards to other vaccines (Table 1). Being a kidney transplant recipient increased the odds of getting at least 1 dose of hepatitis B, tetanus/diphtheria/acellular pertussis (Tdap), measles, and pneumococcal vaccine (OR = 1.75, 95% CI [1.063–2.864]; P = 0.028)

Conclusion

In our cohort, kidney transplant recipients were more likely to have received pre-transplant vaccination. Despite the availability of local and international guidelines, vaccination in SOT candidates remains suboptimal and further study of barriers to implementation of these guidelines is warranted to inform future quality improvement initiatives.

Disclosures

All authors: No reported disclosures.

When medicine transforms art

A 40-year-old female with a history of type 1 diabetes mellitus and solitary pancreas transplant, presented with pancreatic graft rejection 1-year post-transplant. Incidentally, a 1.1 cm right lower lobe cavity was identified during her workup. Given the augmentation of immunosuppression, voriconazole was empirically started for possible invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. As the patient was a painter, this resulted in a significant change in the colors of her paintings. Ultimately, she was diagnosed with pulmonary coccidioidomycosis and her visual disturbances resolved after the voriconazole was changed to fluconazole. Voriconazole causes visual disturbances in 20%-30% of the patients most commonly phototopsias; dyschromatopsias typically involving the tritan axis have also been reported. This case illustrates well the potential impact of voriconazole on spectral sensitivity and color perception.

High incidence of clinically significant cytomegalovirus infection in CMV D+/R+ lung transplant recipients receiving 3 months of antiviral prophylaxis

BACKGROUND

Universal antiviral prophylaxis is the preferred preventive strategy for lung transplant recipients (LTRs) at risk of CMV infection. We compared the risk of CMV infection between CMV D+/R + and D-/R + LTRs after 3 months of prophylaxis.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of CMV R + LTRs transplanted between 2005 and 2013. Patients dying before completing 3 months, or receiving >180 days of prophylaxis were excluded. The primary outcome was proportion of LTRs who developed CMV infection and clinically significant CMV infection defined as CMV infection leading to preemptive therapy or CMV disease.

RESULTS

We analyzed 90 D+/R + and 72 D-/R + with a median follow up of 730 days. CMV infection and disease was more common in D+/R + compared to D-/R+ (CMV infection 66% vs 40%; P = 0.001; CMV disease 13% vs 4% P = 0.045). Fifty-nine patients developed at least one episode of clinically significant CMV infection (41/90 [46%] D+/R + and 18/72 [25%] D-/R + P=0.007) with recurrence occurring in 29 LTRs (49% of patients with previous CMV infection), of which 22 (76%) were CMV D+/R+. Thirty percent had side effects related to CMV therapy.

CONCLUSION

Three months prophylaxis in D+/R + LTRs was associated with high rates of clinically significant CMV infection and recurrences.

The direct and indirect effects of vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization in liver transplant candidates and recipients

Introduction: Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) colonization and subsequent infection results in increased morbidity, mortality and use of health-care resources. The burden of VRE colonization in liver transplant candidates and recipients is significant. VRE colonization is a marker of gut dysbiosis and its impact on the microbiota-liver axis, may negatively affect graft function and result in negative outcomes pre- and post-transplantation. Areas covered: In this article we describe the epidemiology of VRE colonization, risk factors for VRE infection, health-care costs associated with VRE, with a focus on the impact of VRE colonization on liver transplant recipients' fecal microbiota, the therapeutic strategies for VRE decolonization and proposed pathophysiologic mechanisms of VRE colonization in liver transplant recipients. Expert opinion: VRE colonization results in a significant loss of bacterial microbiome diversity. This may have metabolic consequences, with low production of short-chain fatty acids which may, in turn, result in immune dysregulation. As antibiotics have failed to decolonize the gut, alternative strategies such as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), stimulation of intestinal antimicrobial peptides and phage therapy warrants future studies.

Dual infection in pregnancy: Disseminated Mycoplasma hominis and necrotizing herpes simplex 2 hepatitis

Mycoplasma hominis is part of the genitourinary flora in sexually active people and can cause disseminated infection in immunocompromised patients. We describe a rare case of an immunocompetent pregnant woman with simultaneous necrotizing HSV hepatitis and disseminated M. hominis infection. Detection of M. hominis and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of this fastidious organism in the clinical laboratory is discussed.

Outbreak of invasive aspergillosis in heart transplant recipients: The role of screening computed tomography scans in asymptomatic patients and universal antifungal prophylaxis

BACKGROUND

Delays in diagnosing pulmonary invasive aspergillosis (IA), a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among heart transplant recipients (HTRs), may impact on successful treatment. The appropriate screening strategy for IA in these patients remains undefined, particularly in the setting of nosocomial outbreaks. We describe our experience employing chest computed tomography (CT) scans as a screening method for IA. In addition, we comment on antimicrobial prophylaxis in HTRs in the setting of an outbreak.

METHODS

Screening CT scans of the chest and serum galactomannan (GM) were performed in HTRs during an outbreak that followed the index case of IA. Abnormal CT findings prompted a diagnostic workup. Antimicrobial prophylaxis for new transplants recipients included intravenous micafungin while hospitalized, followed by outpatient inhaled amphotericin B for up to 3 months.

RESULTS

During a 10-month period, five cases of IA were identified among HTRs. Two additional asymptomatic patients were diagnosed with IA among 15 asymptomatic HTRs who underwent screening chest CT scans. Among the five cases of IA in HTRs, two of five (40%) had a partial response and the other three failed voriconazole therapy. Complete response to voriconazole therapy assessed at 12 weeks was achieved in these two asymptomatic HTRs diagnosed via screening CTs. Serum GM was positive only in one of the symptomatic cases. The negative predictive value of CT scans was 100% (95% confidence interval, 71.5%-100%).

CONCLUSIONS

In an outbreak setting, screening CT scans of the chest may aid in early detection of asymptomatic HTRs with IA and improve outcome.

Pentraxin 3 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of lung transplant recipients with invasive aspergillosis

BACKGROUND

Invasive aspergillosis is the most common invasive fungal infection in lung transplant recipients. The use of galactomannan testing in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid has improved diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis; however, false-positive results can lead to overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment. The use of proinflammatory markers such as pentraxin 3 (PTX3) may help differentiate between Aspergillus colonization and disease.

METHODS

BAL PTX3 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 151 lung transplant recipients and 9 healthy control subjects. Patients were characterized as having Aspergillus colonization or invasive disease according to International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation criteria. Concomitant PTX3values were compared using Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

RESULTS

We analyzed 322 BAL stored samples and identified 15 invasive aspergillosis events, 38 Aspergillus colonizations, and 17 positive galactomannan with negative Aspergillus cultures. Median BAL PTX3 level was significantly higher in patients with invasive aspergillosis compared with patients with Aspergillus colonization and healthy control subjects (439.20 pg/ml [interquartile range (IQR) 168.18-778.90], 68.93 pg/ml [IQR 13.67-156.74], and 13.67 pg/ml [IQR 13.67-121.18]; p < 0.001). Patients with BAL PTX3 value >319 pg/ml with positive galactomannan and patients with BAL PTX3 value >312 pg/ml with positive Aspergillus culture were 4.5 and 5.5 times more likely to have invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that PTX3 measurements in BAL samples were significantly higher among patients with invasive aspergillosis and may help to identify patients with Aspergillus colonization and false-positive galactomannan in BAL samples.

Strongyloides stercoralis transmission by kidney transplantation in two recipients from a common donor

Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection in an immunocompromised host has a high mortality rate but may initially present with nonspecific pulmonary and gastrointestinal symptoms. Donor-derived S. stercoralis by kidney transplantation is an uncommon diagnosis and difficult to prove. We report two renal allograft recipients on different immunosuppressive maintenance regimens that developed strongyloidiasis after transplantation from the same donor. Recipient 1 presented with a small bowel obstruction. Larvae were demonstrated on a duodenal biopsy and isolated from gastric, pulmonary, and stool samples. Serologic testing for S. stercoralis was negative at a referral laboratory but positive at the Centers for Disease Control. The patient's hospital course was complicated by a hyperinfection syndrome requiring subcutaneous ivermectin due to malabsorption. Recipient 1 survived but the allograft failed. Recipient 2 had larvae detected in stool samples after complaints of diarrhea and was treated. On retrospective testing for S. stercoralis, pretransplant serum collected from the donor and Recipient 1 was positive and negative, respectively. Donor-derived strongyloidiasis by renal transplantation is a preventable disease that may be affected by the immunosuppressive maintenance regimen. Subcutaneous ivermectin is an option in the setting of malabsorption. Finally, routine screening for S. stercoralis infection in donors from endemic areas may prevent future complications.

Cohorting based on nasal methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus status: an opportunity to share more than a room

BACKGROUND

Hospital roommates are cohorted with similarly colonized patients to decrease methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) transmission risk. However, little is known about differences in S aureus nasal and extranasal carriage between hospital roommates who are in MRSA or non-MRSA designated rooms.

METHODS

Patients sharing hospital rooms were cultured for S aureus in the nose, throat, and other body sites. Differences in S aureus methicillin and mupirocin susceptibility and USA300 type were evaluated.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients comprising 48 roommate pairs were studied. Among 6 roommate pairs in MRSA rooms, 3 (50%) had differences in carriage based on having methicillin-susceptible S aureus at an extranasal body site. In non-MRSA rooms, 19 (45%) roommate pairs had differences in S aureus carriage. Extranasal colonization was significantly associated with discordance between roommates, P < .001. Antibiotic exposure, ward type, and the duration of room sharing were not associated with discordance.

CONCLUSION

Patients have almost a 50% chance of having differences in S aureus colonization compared with their hospital roommate, even in MRSA-designated rooms. Cohorting by MRSA status at the time of admission may not be as effective a control strategy as horizontal measures that do not rely on known colonization with S aureus or other pathogens.