Exit site infection

From IDWiki

Background

  • A type of central line infection characterized by superficial soft tissue infection around the exit site of a central line

Case Definition

IDSA

  • Hyperemia, induration, and/or tenderness ≤2 cm from catheter exit site
  • May be associated with fever and purulent drainage from the exit site
  • May or may not be associated with bacteremia

CDC

  • Erythema or induration within 2 cm of the catheter exit site, in the absence of concomitant bloodstream infection and without concomitant purulence

Management

  • Swab any purulent drainage and send for culture
  • Treat empirically for typical skin and soft tissue infection, then adjust based on culture results
  • Duration typically 7 to 14 days