Hepatitis and PICCs and other IVI access devices

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From:   <<A

HREF= " http://groups.yahoo.com/group/pancreatitis/post?protectID=1972332531220931\

62172057065101179226102109175196169079079055048205015143149 " >poohbunton_2000@yah\

oo.com</A>>

Date: Sun Jul 15, 2001 9:05am

Subject: <A

HREF= " http://groups.yahoo.com/group/pancreatitis/message/18524?expand=1 " >infecti\

ons

>></A>I was just wondering is there a chance of getting hepatitis from getting

infections from PIC-lines or chest ports. Thanks Rick <<

There can be numerous problems when a PICC line or any other vascular device

is infected. Regular IV's are less likely to cause any problems other than

localized skin irritation or phlebitis because these veins are smaller veins.

To place a PICC or subclavians and other port type much larger deeper veins

are required for access. These veins which are used are very close to the

heart. The liver receives about 1/4 of its blood supply from the heart. The

other 3/4 comes from the portal artery which drains the intestines. Forget

any infection, having chronic Pancreatitis places us at a minimal risk.

Hepatitis simply means inflammation of the liver. The liver filters most

drugs we take. The liver is depended on for many things.

When a PICC or other line is infected there rarely is any trouble with

multi-organ affect. The infections can, not always, move through the large

vein to the heart and to the liver. The infection and the antibiotics

required put additional stress to the liver. This can irritate the liver

enough to make it inflamed. The liver usually quickly recovers after

treatment is complete.

Hepatitis, which the public frequently speaks of, is of the viral type. These

are A,B,C,D,E. Each of these have different methods of transportation between

people. These are completely different from the bacterial infections of the

PICC lines.

There are other health care professional on board who may provide additional

information and clear up any possible inaccurate information I have written.

This information is not to be a scare tactic. It is to encourage one to be

aware of their body, and know the risks and benefits of any treatment they

are receiving. If a problem is suspected notify their doctor or nurse as soon

as possible. It is also not meant to deter anyone from receiving the

treatment they need. Living with Chronic Pancreatitis many of us are

immunosuppressed, meaning our ability to fight infections is harder. Knowing

this we enter any type of treatment aware that.

Peace be with you.

Karyn , RN

Founder/CEO

Pancreatitis Association, Intl.

KarynWms@...