Epidemiology of Subsequent Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) Infection Among Rectal Carriers: A Meta-Analysis of Incidence, Risk Factors and Their Association With Geographic Region and Age

Background

This study aimed to assess the incidence and risk factors of subsequent carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) infection among rectal carriers, and their association with geographic region and age.

Methods

A meta-analysis of studies investigating incidence and/or risk factors of subsequent CRE infection among rectal carriers was conducted, with subgroup analyses by geographic region and age. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched (published from inception to 31 January 2024). This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023444420).

Results

Of 4459 studies identified, 24 studies with 8188 CRE rectal carriers were included. The pooled incidence of subsequent CRE infection was 20.6% (95% CI 15.9–25.8). The highest incidence was seen in America (23.6%, 95% CI 14.2–34.5), followed by Europe (20.9%, 95% CI 12.5–30.8) and Asia (19.8%, 95% CI 12.7–27.9). Children had a greater incidence (26.7%, 95% CI 21.3–32.3) than adults (19.8%, 95% CI 14.9–25.2). Fourteen factors were associated with subsequent CRE infection. In Asia, the most notable risk factor was gastritis (odds ratio [OR] 4.95 95% CI 1.87–13.11). In Europe, admission to the intensive care unit was prominent (OR 2.76 95% CI 1.14–6.65). In the America, the use of a urinary Foley catheter (OR 4.33 95% CI 1.06-17.70) was dominant. Admission to the intensive care unit was most notable in adults (OR 3.01 95% CI 1.80–5.02), while mechanical ventilation was shown the greatest significance in children (OR 15.61 95% CI 4.39–55.47).

Conclusions

Risk of subsequent CRE infection among rectal carriers was critical. Identifying the risk factors for subsequent infection could help in developing more potent prevention and control measures to reduce CRE infection.