Dual-agent protocol may cut post-prostate biopsy infection rate

Key Points

The new regimen, which was developed based on consultation with infectious disease specialists, includes a single oral dose of ciprofloxacin (Cipro, Proquin XR) plus a single intramuscular dose of an aminoglycoside (originally gentamicin, but tobramycin is being used as an alternative as necessary due to a gentamicin shortage). Based on several months of experience, the dual-agent protocol appears effective for reducing the rate of post-TRUSP infections. However, a few cases of fluoroquinolone-resistant E. coli infections have occurred, said senior author J. Stephen Jones, MD, MBA, chairman and professor of regional urology at Cleveland Clinic's Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute.

"Unfortunately, those of us who have been warning about the need for judicious use of antibiotics to limit emerging bacterial resistance are now being validated by findings of high rates of infection due to antibiotic-resistant organisms," Dr. Jones told Urology Times. "As the problem seems to worsen before our eyes, we are continuing to advocate appropriate antibiotic prescribing but are also being forced into considering use of additional agents for prophylaxis based on problems with ongoing resistance.