Use of ethanol locks to prevent recurrent central line sepsis

J Infect. 2004 Jul;49(1):20-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2003.08.010.

Abstract

Catheter-related sepsis (CRS) is a common complication of long-term parenteral nutrition. Conventional antibiotic therapy is often effective in the short-term but, because of poor activity against intraluminal microbial biofilms, may not prevent relapse. Ethanol is an effective antiseptic. We describe a case of a patient with recurrent CRS successfully treated with 70% ethanol locks.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / administration & dosage*
  • Bacteremia / prevention & control*
  • Catheterization, Central Venous / adverse effects*
  • Equipment Contamination / prevention & control
  • Ethanol / administration & dosage*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Parenteral Nutrition, Total / instrumentation*

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Ethanol