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infectious-disease anaesthesia-icu emergency

Pitt Bacteraemia Score

Severity score in patients with bloodstream infection (Hilf 1989). Predicts mortality and used to stratify patients in clinical trials of new antibiotics. Sums 5 weighted variables (max 14).

Score interpretation

Mild bacteraemia 0–1

→ Standard targeted antibiotics per culture and sensitivities; ID review for tailored therapy. Source control (line removal, drainage).

Moderate bacteraemia 2–3

→ Broad-spectrum cover until sensitivities known; admission. Consider HDU. Check echo if Gram-positive / endocarditis risk; CT for source.

Severe bacteraemia (≥4) 4–14

→ ICU admission. Aggressive resuscitation per Surviving Sepsis. Empirical broad-spectrum + atypical cover if neutropenic (anti-pseudomonal β-lactam ± aminoglycoside ± antifungal). ID consult; daily review for source control.

Interpretation bands for the Pitt Bacteraemia. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.