Ureaplasma, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and azithromycin in European neonatal intensive care units: a survey

Sci Rep. 2014 Feb 12:4:4076. doi: 10.1038/srep04076.

Abstract

A survey was set up to gauge the opinions of neonatologists on the role of Ureaplasma in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) development, the use of azithromycin for BPD prevention, and the factors influencing azithromycin use in European neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). 167 NICUs participated in the survey, representing 28 European countries. For respondents, the two major perceived risk factors for BPD were prematurity of <28 weeks and high oxygen requirements. Only 38% of NICUs had a protocol for BPD prevention and 47% routinely tested for Ureaplasma. In cases of infection, macrolides were the first choice. Most (78%) NICUs were interested in participating in a trial evaluating azithromycin safety and efficacy in reducing BPD rates. Opinions and clinical practice varied between European neonatal units, and differences in Ureaplasma treatment and prevention of BPD highlight the need for further azithromycin evaluation and for improved therapeutic knowledge in preterms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Azithromycin / pharmacology*
  • Azithromycin / therapeutic use
  • Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia / etiology*
  • Data Collection
  • Europe
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Intensive Care Units, Neonatal
  • Risk Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Ureaplasma / drug effects*
  • Ureaplasma Infections / prevention & control

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Azithromycin