Catheter Infections: Diagnosis, Etiology, Treatment, and Prevention

Infection remains the leading complication that is associated with intravascular access devices. Despite continuous research efforts and advances in technology, the rate of central venous catheter infections has remained relatively constant over the past decade. This article focuses on four pertinent aspects of central venous access infection: microbial etiology and pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. An update of the scientific literature in this area will aid clinicians in their patient care practices and serve to identify unanswered questions.