Emerging Antimicrobial Resistance and the Prevalence of Gram-Negative Bloodstream Infections in Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients Undergoing Induction Chemotherapy at Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt 57357 - Report - MDSpire

Emerging Antimicrobial Resistance and the Prevalence of Gram-Negative Bloodstream Infections in Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients Undergoing Induction Chemotherapy at Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt 57357

  • By

  • Grace Mbatia

  • Reham Khedr

  • Leslie Lehmann

  • Mervat El Anany

  • Khaled Alsheshtawi

  • Omayma Hassanain

  • Sonia Ahmed

  • Omneya Hassanain

  • Lobna Shalaby

  • Alaa Elhaddad

  • April 22, 2026

  • 0 min

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Emerging Antimicrobial Resistance and GNBSI in Pediatric AML Patients

Overview

This study reveals a significant prevalence of gram-negative bloodstream infections (GNBSI) in pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) undergoing induction chemotherapy, with a notable incidence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) organisms. The findings underscore the associated morbidity and mortality, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and antibiotic stewardship.

Background

Gram-negative bloodstream infections are a critical concern in pediatric oncology, particularly among children receiving intensive chemotherapy for AML. The immunocompromised state of these patients, compounded by antibiotic resistance, leads to increased morbidity and mortality. Understanding the prevalence and resistance patterns of these infections is essential for improving patient outcomes in low-middle-income countries.

Data Highlights

FindingValue
Children with GNBSI90 (27.4%)
MDR GNBSI cases72 (80%)
Most common organismE. coli (54.8%)
30-day cumulative infection-related mortality27.8% (18.9-37.3%)
Typhlitis incidence29 (32.2%)
ICU admissions38 (42%)

Key Findings

  • 27.4% of children experienced at least one GNBSI during induction chemotherapy.
  • 80% of GNBSI cases were due to multi-drug resistant organisms.
  • The most prevalent organism was E. coli, followed by K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii.
  • 30-day infection-related mortality was reported at 27.8%.
  • Associated morbidity included typhlitis and a high rate of ICU admissions.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be vigilant in monitoring for GNBSI in pediatric AML patients, especially during induction chemotherapy. Implementing robust antibiotic stewardship programs is crucial to combat the rising threat of MDR infections and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of GNBSI and associated antibiotic resistance in pediatric AML patients necessitates urgent action in surveillance and treatment strategies to mitigate morbidity and mortality.

References

  1. Blood Cancer Journal, 2015 -- Infectious complications in children with acute myeloid leukemia: decreased mortality in multicenter trial AML-BFM 2004
  2. Infection, 2022 -- Epidemiology and Species Distribution of Candida Bloodstream Infections in Pediatric and Adult Populations at Two University Hospitals in Egypt: Initial Detection of Candida kefyr
  3. Infection, 2025 -- Infections Occurring During Induction Chemotherapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia in a Modern Cohort Lacking Fluoroquinolone Prophylaxis
  4. Infection, 2024 -- Characterization of Clinical Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Producing Extended Spectrum and Metallo-Beta Lactamases in Egypt
  5. Guideline for the Management of Fever and Neutropenia in Children
  6. IDSA Guidance on the Treatment of Antimicrobial Resistant Gram-Negative Infections Guideline Summary - Guideline Central
  7. Frontiers, 2025 -- Gram-negative Blood-stream Infections and Emerging Antimicrobial resistance in Children with Acute Myeloid Leukemia during Induction Chemotherapy at Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt 57357
  8. Children's Oncology Group Guidelines
  9. IDSA AMR Guidance
  10. Frontiers | Gram-negative Blood-stream Infections and Emerging Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Children with Acute Myeloid Leukemia during Induction Chemotherapy at Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt 57357

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