Prediction of Bloodstream Infection in Pediatric Acute Leukemia by Microbiota and Volatile Organic Compounds Analysis

Introduction: Bloodstream infections (BSIs) cause treatment-related mortality in pediatric acute leukemia. We explored the potential of intestinal microbiota and fecal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) analyses to predict BSI. Methods: In this case-control study, fecal samples of pediatric acute leukemia patients were collected. Microbiota composition and fecal VOC profiles of BSI cases and matched non-BSI controls were compared. Results: In total, 6 patients were included, of which 1 developed BSI and 1 neutropenic fever. Both showed reduced microbial diversity and stability of Bacteroidetes. In the BSI case, Pantoea was identified 15 days before BSI. Significant differences in fecal VOC profiles were measured between the case and controls. Conclusion: Microbiota and fecal VOC could serve as biomarkers to predict BSI in pediatric leukemia.