Catheter-related sepsis during parenteral nutrition

CRS is a frequent and serious complication of PN. A variety of organisms can be causative, although staphylococcal species are now most commonly implicated. The diagnosis of CRS creates a substantial challenge for the clinician; ideally, diagnosis should be made without removal of the catheter since catheter replacement is often associated with complications. Meticulous catheter placement and care by trained personnel have been shown conclusively to decrease the incidence of CRS. Catheter removal is usually sufficient treatment of CRS; attempts to treat bacterial CRS in patients receiving long-term PN by a permanent access device without removing the device are warranted in some circumstances.