Is Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole a Valid Alternative in the Management of Infections in Children in the Era of Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus? A Comprehensive Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the use of TMP-SMX compared with other options available for the treatment of children with community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infections. Data Sources. The following databases were searched: Medline and PreMedline (OivdSP interface); Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE; Elsevier interface); Cumulative Index to the Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; EbscoHost interface); Sciences Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED; Web of Science interface); Cochrane Library (Wiley interface); Scopus (Elsevier interface), and DARE, HTA (CRD interface). The search strategy was the one developed by SIGN to identify randomized clinical trials and systematic reviews. Also, we conducted a hand review of all reference lists of included studies. No language or data limits were added. The last search was done on October 1, 2015. Main key words were trimethoprim or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole combination and Staphylococcus aureus. Study Selection. Only randomized controlled trials comparing TMP-SMX versus any other antibiotic as the first-line treatment in CA-MRSA infections in children were included. Articles were reviewed by 2 reviewers, and in case of discrepancy, the final decision was made by the study coordinator. Data Extraction. Only 27 out of 364 articles identified were randomized controlled trials and only 4 fulfilled the eligibility criteria (Jadad score >3). Data Synthesis. Evidence found only referred to use of TMP-SMX in soft tissue infections. Heterogeneity among studies precluded meta-analysis. Conclusions. Available evidence is not conclusive to promote or refuse TMP-SMX as first-line treatment in CA-MRSA infections in children. Additional well-designed studies are required to fsurther elucidate this issue.

Keywords: antibiotic resistance; clinical pharmacy; clinical practice; infectious disease; medical education.

Figure 1.

Articles selected (one more reference [r] was added after data search).