Taurolidine and catheter-related bloodstream infection: a systematic review of the literature.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Catheter-related bloodstream infection remains the most common serious complication associated with long-term parenteral nutrition. Taurolock (Bio-Implant HealthCare, Winsen, Germany), which contains taurolidine, is being marketed as a central venous catheter lock solution for decreasing the risk of catheter sepsis.

AIM:

To review available literature and examine the evidence for efficacy of taurolidine in prevention of central venous catheter-related infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Internet for all studies involving use of taurolidine to prevent central venous catheter infection.

RESULTS:

Six in vitro and 11 in vivo studies were assessed. Although in vivo studies suggest a possible useful role for taurolidine, the evidence base from clinical studies is poor, with much of it observational or of poor methodology.

CONCLUSIONS:

The evidence is insufficient to warrant routine use of taurolidine. However, results of in vitro studies are encouraging and further adequately powered and well-designed randomized trials are required.

• Authors: Joanne H Bradshaw, John W L Puntis
• Journal: Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition (J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr) Vol. 47 Issue 2 Pg. 179-86 (Aug 2008) ISSN: 1536-4801 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 18664870 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Review, Systematic Review)

Chemical References

• Anti-Infective Agents
• Thiadiazines
• Taurine
• taurolidine

Topics

• Anti-Infective Agents (administration & dosage)
• Catheterization, Central Venous (adverse effects)
• Equipment Contamination (prevention & control)
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Humans
• Sepsis (epidemiology, prevention & control)
• Taurine (analogs & derivatives, pharmacology)
• Thiadiazines (pharmacology)