Chest tube-related empyema due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: could the chest tube be coated with antiseptics?

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2006 Feb;27(2):195-7. doi: 10.1086/501154. Epub 2006 Feb 8.

Abstract

We reviewed the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and outcomes of 3 cases of chest tube-related empyema due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Antiseptic-impregnated chest tubes were inserted in cultures containing MRSA isolates from these 3 patients, and zone of inhibition were measured. Chest tube-related MRSA empyema might complicate tube thoracostomy, and coating the chest tube with antiseptic agents could prevent this complication.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / administration & dosage*
  • Cancer Care Facilities
  • Chest Tubes / microbiology*
  • Empyema / etiology*
  • Empyema / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methicillin Resistance*
  • Middle Aged
  • Staphylococcal Infections / prevention & control*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects
  • Staphylococcus aureus / pathogenicity*
  • Texas

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local