Tunneled pleural catheter use for pleural palliation does not increase infection rate in patients with treatment-related immunosuppression

ConclusionsThese results suggest that antineoplastic therapy may not significantly increase the overall risk of TPC-related infections, as the rate remains low and comparable to rates in patients not undergoing antineoplastic therapy. Regardless of immune status, the presence of a catheter-related infection did not negatively impact overall survival. These results should reassure clinicians that the need to initiate antineoplastic therapy should not delay definitive pleural palliation with a TPC.
Source: Supportive Care in Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research