Optimizing Antibiotic Therapy in Critically Ill Patients: The Role of Radiological Imaging and Pharmacokinetics in Infection Management

Authors: Aminah K. Alanazi, Maryam H. Aldossari, Fahad Alenizy, Zahra A. Asiri, Dima F. Almangour, Bader H. Alanazi, Ali A. Almalki, Maha S. Gassas, Rania A. Sharaf, Amer S. Alhumaidan, Ahmed A. Shareefi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13922748

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g76899

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Managing infections in critically ill patients is challenging due to altered pharmacokinetics and complex disease processes. Integrating radiological imaging with pharmacokinetic monitoring may optimize antibiotic therapy.
Objective: This study assessed the impact of combining radiological imaging and therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) on infection resolution and clinical outcomes in critically ill patients.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 120 critically ill patients at a tertiary hospital. Radiological imaging (chest X-rays, CT scans) and pharmacokinetic monitoring were used to guide antibiotic therapy. Clinical outcomes, including infection resolution, ICU stay, and mortality, were analyzed.
Results: Patients whose antibiotic doses were adjusted based on pharmacokinetic monitoring had significantly higher infection resolution rates (87% vs. 60%), shorter ICU stays (14.5 vs. 19.1 days), and lower mortality (11% vs. 27%). Radiological improvements were strongly correlated with achieving therapeutic drug levels (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Combining radiological imaging with pharmacokinetic monitoring significantly improves infection resolution and clinical outcomes in critically ill patients, supporting a multidisciplinary approach to optimizing antibiotic therapy.

Keywords: critical care, pharmacokinetics, radiological imaging, antibiotic therapy, therapeutic drug monitoring, infection management

Paper Id: 231319

Published On: 2019-07-18

Published In: Volume 7, Issue 4, July-August 2019

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