Comparison of vancomycin sensitive and resistant enterococcal infection in children.

BACKGROUND

Enterococcal infections are an increasing concern in pediatric healthcare due to their association with hospital-acquired infections and antimicrobial resistance. This study compared vancomycin-resistant (VRE) and vancomycin-sensitive Enterococcus (VSE) infections in children.

METHODS

Medical records of pediatric patients with VRE or VSE infections at Hacettepe University Children’s Hospital between 2014 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic, clinical, and microbiological data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 181 isolates, 24.3% were VRE. VRE infections were linked to immunodeficiency, renal disease, prior transfusion, inotropic support, and broad-spectrum antibiotic exposure. Bacteremia predominated in both groups. VRE isolates showed multidrug resistance but remained susceptible to linezolid and daptomycin. Mortality and treatment duration were higher in VRE cases. Immunodeficiency and inotropic support predicted 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

VRE infections in children are associated with prolonged therapy, multidrug resistance, and higher mortality, emphasizing the importance of early detection and rational antibiotic use.