Rates of Neutropenic Fever in Patients with Hematologic Malignant Diseases with Central Venous Access

Background: Patients who are diagnosed with hematologic malignant diseases (HMD) almost invariably receive placement of central venous catheters (CVCs), whether temporary or permanent. These catheters are used for administration of various chemotherapies, antibiotics and even nutrition. Although the patients with HMD are immunocompromised, prophylactic use of antibiotics among these patients, especially related to CVC placement, remains controversial. This retrospective analysis evaluates the rates of development of neutropenic fever in patients with HMD with CVCs receiving prophylactic antibiotics.