Challenges in Infectious Diseases for Haematologists

Oncol Res Treat. 2018;41(6):406-410. doi: 10.1159/000487439. Epub 2018 May 7.

Abstract

Infections remain a threat for patients with haematological malignancies. In accordance with the European Hematology Association roadmap we provide a concise overview regarding the most relevant current challenges in infectious diseases for haematologists. These include bacterial infections and the need for antibiotic stewardship as well as infections with community-acquired respiratory viruses, infections in patients receiving targeted therapies, re-activations of latent infections and vaccination strategies. The following review intends to summarise the most relevant information for clinicians currently caring for patients with haematological malignancies. Recommendations given are based on the guidelines published by the Infectious Diseases Working Party of the German Society of Haematology and Medical Oncology.

Keywords: Community acquired respiratory virus; Haematological malignancies; Infections; Multi-drug resistance; Re-activation; Targeted therapies; Vaccination.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacterial Infections / microbiology
  • Bacterial Infections / therapy*
  • Communicable Diseases / metabolism
  • Communicable Diseases / therapy*
  • Communicable Diseases / virology
  • Community-Acquired Infections / therapy*
  • Community-Acquired Infections / virology
  • Hematologic Neoplasms / microbiology
  • Hematologic Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Hematologic Neoplasms / virology
  • Hematology / methods*
  • Humans
  • Influenza, Human / therapy*
  • Influenza, Human / virology
  • Vaccination / methods

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antineoplastic Agents