Heamatology Flashcards
(11 cards)
What are the first-line tests for HIV screening of asymptomatic individuals or patients with signs and symptoms of chronic infection?
Combined HIV antibody / antigen test (fourth generation test)
What should be measured in individuals with HIV to assess the risk of Opportunistic infections?
CD4 count
If Initial screening results from fourth generational HIV testing are inconclusive, what tests can be considered?
HIV-1 NAAT test or the p24 antigen test.
What medications are used in Antiretroviral therapy of HIV?
Combination of 3 drugs
- typically 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) adn either a Protease inhibitor (PI) or Non-NRTI.
What are some examples of Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)?
- Zidovudine
- Tenofovir
- Didanosine
- Abacavir
What are some examples of Protease inhibitors?
- Indinavir, Nelfinavir, Ritonavir, Saquinavir
What is Neutropenic Sepsis?
Relatively common complication of cancer therapy, usually as a consequence of chemotherapy.
Commonly occurs7-14 days post chemo.
May be defined as a neutrophil count of <0.5x10(9) in a patient who is having anticancer treatment and one of the following:
- A temperature higher than 38
- other signs or symptoms consistent with sepsis
What is the most common cause of Neutropenic sepsis?
Coagulase negative, Gram positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus Epidermidis.
What is the prophylaxis for Neutropenic sepsis and when is it given?
It is given if anticipated that the patient is likely to have a Neutrophil count of <0.5x10(9) as a consequence of their treatment.
Patients should be offered Fluroquinolone.
What is the management of Neutropenic Sepsis acutely?
Piperacillin with Tazobactam (Tazocin) should be started Immediately. (Do not wait for WBC)
If patients are still febrile and unwell following 48hours of treatment in Neutropenic Sepsis, what can be given?
Often prescribed an alternative antibiotic such as meropenem +/- vancomycin.
