From the Research
Wound Culture for PEG Tube Site Erythema
The following information is based on studies related to PEG tube site infections and erythema:
- PEG site infections can be caused by various pathogens, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), pseudomonads, and Enterobacterales 1, 2.
- A study published in 2002 found that cultures from 14 of 22 peristomal infections grew MRSA, pseudomonads, and other organisms 1.
- Another study published in 2023 found that the most common bacterial pathogen detected in wound infections after PEG placement was Enterobacterales (19.2%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and enterococci 2.
- A prospective randomized clinical trial published in 1999 found that antibiotic prophylaxis significantly reduced the risk of peristomal wound infection associated with PEG insertion 3.
- A study published in 2014 found that long-term PEG cutaneous problems are common, and appropriate physical examinations and laboratory tests can provide evidence to identify the causes and treat patients with PEG cutaneous problems 4.
- A study published in 2006 found that patients with known prior MRSA colonization had a significantly higher risk of developing symptomatic MRSA infection of the PEG site 5.
Indicated Wound Culture
Based on the available evidence, the following wound cultures may be indicated for PEG tube site erythema:
- MRSA culture, as MRSA is a common cause of PEG site infections 1, 5.
- Culture for Enterobacterales, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and enterococci, as these pathogens are commonly detected in wound infections after PEG placement 2.
- Wound swab or tissue culture to identify the underlying pathogen and guide antibiotic therapy 2, 3.