MANAGEMENT OF INFECTIOUS COMPLICATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE LEUKAEMIA

Аннотация

Infectious complications are among the most frequent and life-threatening challenges in the treatment of acute leukaemia, particularly during periods of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, spectrum, and outcomes of infections in patients with acute leukaemia treated at the Samarkand Regional Multidisciplinary Medical Centre between 2019 and 2023. A total of 108 patients with acute myeloid or lymphoblastic leukaemia were analysed. Febrile episodes occurred in nearly 90% of patients, with 61% of infections microbiologically confirmed. Gram-negative bacteria were the predominant pathogens, with E. coli , K. pneumoniae , and P. aeruginosa being the most common; a significant proportion exhibited multidrug resistance. Fungal infections and viral reactivations were also observed, particularly in those with prolonged neutropenia. The infection-related mortality rate was 17.6%, largely due to sepsis caused by resistant Gram-negative organisms. Early initiation of empirical antibiotic therapy and G-CSF support were associated with improved survival. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved diagnostics, targeted antimicrobial therapy, and local infection control strategies to reduce mortality in acute leukaemia patients in resource-limited settings.