Home intravenous antibiotic treatment in cystic fibrosis

Abstract

The prognosis for patients with cystic fibrosis who are colonised with Pseudomonas aeruginosa has improved as a result of the regular use of intravenous antibiotics; however, this necessitates long periods of hospitalisation. Home intravenous antibiotic treatment has potential advantages over hospital treatment. We describe our experience during the first 20 months of using a system of home intravenous antibiotic treatment in which a cystic fibrosis liaison sister has an essential role. Thirteen patients have received 40 courses of treatment. There were highly significant improvements in weight, respiratory function, and white cell count during home treatment. There was no significant difference in weight and forced expiratory volume in one second between the end of home treatment and the end of hospital treatment while forced vital capacity was better after home treatment. All patients preferred home treatment. The advantages of home visits by the cystic fibrosis liaison sister during treatment are emphasised.