[Bacterial infection within the scope of hemotherapy].

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to present a survey of bacterial infections caused by hemotherapy.

DATA SOURCES

Original papers as well as review articles from international investigations based on literature data banks.

RESULTS

As there exist only a few studies about transfusion complications caused by bacteria you only can find sporadic reports. Surely immunocompromised recipients have high risk to be hurt. Causing bacteria are various but Staphylococci, Yersinia, Serratia and Pseudomonas species often are found. Especially platelet concentrates give higher infection risk because storage at room temperature is obligatory. This fact makes growth conditions more comfortable. Strict hygienic measures, extension of donor screening and pointed quality control are capable to decrease the risk of transfusion complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Exact indications and a clear strategy evaluating the transfusion reports and routine bacteriological control are necessary to prevent infections caused by hemotherapy.