empirical antibiotics for the immunocompromised
Last reviewed 01/2018
The choice of antibiotic when treating immunocompromised patients is controversial. The clinician however should become familiar with one regimen to avoid delay.
The antibiotics should cover the most dangerous potential pathogens in neutropenic patients ie enteric gram negative rods and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Consult local guidance and expert advice.
Possible regimens include:
- ureido-penicillin and azlocillin
- piperacillin and gentamicin
- ceftazidime
If Staph. epidermidis is cultured vancomycin may need to be added, and if fever persists for more than 72 hours amphotericin B should be considered.